Archive for February, 2010

Today we have both Cory Grimes and Drew “FrustratedFury” giving their impressions of the PS3 exclusive Heavy Rain. This noir crime drama is brought to us by Quantic Dreams, developers of Indigo Prophecy. This is more an interactive story then a game. Told through the lives of four people; their actions all trying to answer the question: ‘How far would you go to save someone you love?’

First we have Cory Grime’s impressions:

Heavy Rain is a game that should be experienced by anyone who is a fan of games. It shows how completely different from the norm a game can be and be brilliant at the same time.
The gameplay is similar to that of Quantic Dream’s previous title Indigo Prophecy – using the controller in ways to complete motions, but is done much better than it was in Indigo Prophecy. The things you do with the joysticks range from the mundane – like shaving or setting a table, to the intense – like a car chase or a fight. The gameplay may be hard to comprehend at the beginning, but soon becomes easy and intuitive. This gameplay is innovative and could totally be a new wave in gaming, to be used in games of the future.
The plot is complex and reminiscent of the Saw films, only good. In the game, you are tested to see how far you are willing to go to save someone you love. Each character in the game has a different story, and their stories often intertwine. The story has a branching narrative based on what you do, so each playthrough could have a different outcome based on your actions. The story is also gripping, and you can bet to experience a ton of different emotions to the game.
The characters are fully developed and seem real, unlike stereotypical video game characters. Each character’s story is interesting and different in its own way.
The graphics are mind blowing and showcase what the PS3 is capable of; not only in cutscenes but in gameplay as well. There are several jaw dropping moments caused by the graphics.
I think Heavy Rain is possibly one of the best games ever made. It is new and innovative in a time where gamers are given sequels and mediocre titles. It is definitely my game of the year and I doubt it will be topped. If you own a PS3, you must own this game!

and now Drew’s “FrustratedFury” impressions of Heavy Rain

So, I sit down with a Dual Shock 3 controller in hand. I have an audience with me consisting of Rage Quit Radio’s Joel and Alan (and special guest, Montay.) After the origami folding installation process, we begin. Right away, I’m hooked. What I didn’t know was that my viewers were hooked as well. It felt like we were in a movie theater watching the newest summer blockbuster. The crazy thing is that the things I were doing were everyday mundane things: taking a shower, drinking some OJ, setting out dinner plates. That’s how powerful Heavy Rain really is! Anyone in the room will be glued to the screen to see what happens next.
Then, after brief introduction to all the characters, the real drama begins.
Heavy Rain will keep you guessing the entire time you’re playing. At one time, I thought everyone could possibly be the Origami Killer. The story telling is so top notch I actually started to feel emotional for some of the more tragic characters. Everything from button presses to moving the controller in a direction makes you feel like you’re trying to do it will all you might just to get the point across. Knowing that your characters can die at any moment really does put you in distress mode. There were many times I shouted out loud, as well as my audience, when a close call happened.

The tone is very impactful as well, you really feel depressed during the beginning of the game due to what the main characters are experiencing. You really feel flustered and panicky during one of the moments where your character could die. This is all conveyed through the music, dialog, and settings. Even the button responses that flash up on the screen get shaky and blurry during stressful moments. The developers know how to keep you entranced in the game and story.

Honestly, if you have friends who don’t play games you should have them at least watch this game. Both Joel and Montay agreed that watching was more of an experience than playing it; and I couldn’t agree more. I haven’t finished the game as of yet but I can safely say the hunt for the Origami Killer is one NO ONE should have to miss.  

Well there you have it. Possible the “best game(s) ever made” and if you’re not a gamer just watching someone else play Heavy Rain may make you one quickly.
Are you picking up Heavy Rain and going after the Origami Killer? How far would you go for someone you loved? Let us know your experience with Heavy Rain in the comments below; and Happy Hunting!