Heavy Rain Discussion Thread

[NamPaehc]

This thread will be to discuss Quantic Dream (http://www.quanticdream.com/)'s upcoming "evolving thriller" PS3 title. If you want to talk uncanny valley, maybe post your feelings in a CAG 2.0 blog as this clearly isn't the place any more.

Just going to try and discuss the game info that'll be shared between those anticipating its release, and the others looking for more details.

Reviews:
FriskyTanuki (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/member.php?u=1040)'s (CAG Community Member) Heavy Rain Review. (http://blog.gamer20.com/2010/02/review-heavy-rain-ps3/)
shipwreck (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/member.php?u=2907)'s (CAG Community Member) Heavy Rain Review (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/../?f=1887).
IGN Review. (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/106/1067755p1.html)
GamePro. (http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/213908/heavy-rain/)
Game Informer. (http://gameinformer.com/games/heavy_rain/b/ps3/archive/2010/02/10/review.aspx)
Find more at Metacritic.com (http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps3/heavyrain)


Heavy Rain is a cinematic and evolving thriller from Quantic Dream, the developer behind the critically acclaimed Fahrenheit. Dealing with a range of adult themes, the game revolves around a sophisticated plot and strong narrative threads that explore a complex moral proposition. You assume the role of multiple characters, with very different backgrounds, motivations and skills, in a world shaped by Bending Storylines - a dynamic narrative design where your actions and decisions will shape your story.

Rating: Mature (ESRB - US)
Official Site. (http://heavyrainps3.com/)

Dev blog (http://blogs.ign.com/SCE_HeavyRain/) (IGN)


Release Date: February 23, 2010 (US) Date Announcement (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/01/heavy-rain-officially-releasing-on-february-23/).

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2701/4268197268_f0cc2f4316.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/playstationblog/4268197268/)



http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/99/Heavy_rain.png


Previews:

Home to be supported. (http://www.videogamer.com/news/22-08-2008-9159.html)

Demo + Possible DLC (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=220286).

Behinds the scenes footage. (http://www.ripten.com/2008/08/09/new-heavy-rain-footage/)

IGN's "Eye's On" Preview. (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/898/898580p1.html)

Joystiq's "Eye's On" Preview: (http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/joystiq-eyes-on-heavy-rain/)

Images:

IGN Gallery. (http://media.ps3.ign.com/media/811/811232/imgs_1.html)
Some pictures and info on the mocap crew. (http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.play3-live.com%2Fnews-ps3-heavy-rain-dans-les-coulisses-de-la-motion-capture-9841.html&hl=fr&ie=UTF8&sl=fr&tl=en)
New Screens, click (http://media.ps3.gamespy.com/media/811/811232/imgs_1.html)
There are a few new screens and artwork mixed in here. (http://games.tiscali.cz/clanek/screen.asp?id=10715)
Images. (http://www.eurogamer.pt/gallery.php?game_id=9088&article_id=573523)


Videos:

Trailer. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MP260in3ph4)

Mad Jack gameplay preview video. (http://www.gametrailers.com/user-movie/heavy-rain-mad-jack-gameplay/318257)

Dev interview. (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/usermovies/255339.html)

"Tech demo- The Casting" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyubR1rknBM)


Pre-Order Details: Pre-order Heavy Rain (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/12/pre-order-heavy-rain-and-get-the-heavy-rain-chronicles/) and receive a voucher to download the first chapter of Heavy Rain Chronicles: The Taxidermist.

Heavy Rain Chronicles is a series of downloadable, playable episodes that expands the Heavy Rain experience. The first chapter of Heavy Rain Chronicles allows players to play as investigative journalist, Madison Paige, on her first assignments tracking a serial killer. Similar to Heavy Rain, the story of The Taxidermist unfolds in different ways based on the decisions and actions of the player.

Codes valid from game launch through 5/31/2010. Need full game to play.

US and Canadian residents can place your pre-orders today at these retailers participating in the special pre-order offer:


US Locations:
Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Heavy-Rain-Playstation-3/dp/B002CZ38KA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1263331334&sr=8-1)
GameCrazy (http://www.gamecrazy.com/games/game.aspx?id=14887&LF=STL)
GameStop (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=74389) (online and in-store)


Canada Locations:
Amazon.ca (http://www.amazon.ca/)
BestBuy.ca (http://bestbuy.ca/)
EB Games (http://www.gamestop.ca/)
FutureShop.ca (http://futureshop.ca/)

[Vanigan]

What's really interesting to me in the concept of main characters dying (due to player actions) and the story continuing on despite that. Leads me to think that they're aiming for even more elastic plot points. That was a real strength of Indigo Prophecy despite it's other flaws.

Also, any word on who is doing the music this time around? They managed to get a hollywood composer to do Lucas', Carla's, and one other theme in IP and that really helped the game.

[CoffeeEdge]

What's really interesting to me in the concept of main characters dying (due to player actions) and the story continuing on despite that.

It's going to be a hundred times more rigid than you're anticipating, I assure you.

[Halo05]

Ew motion controls? Kick that shit to the curb. Shaking my controller in Resistance to keep zombies off me was the absolute worst part of the game.

[NamPaehc]

The story continuing beyond character deaths, I think was tried in Omnikron too. Doubt it will be the same thing but perhaps this is the progression of that idea?

Ew motion controls? Kick that shit to the curb. Shaking my controller in Resistance to keep zombies off me was the absolute worst part of the game.

I think it sounds interesting, if done right. Resistance was to random, if you would actually elbow or swing on the way you moved I would have liked that more. This seems to be more complicated compared to Resistance to me.

[Koggit]

If the screen shots of this game didn't look so good I doubt anybody would care at all, the gameplay looks boring as hell

If I want to watch a story I'll watch a movie... if I want to watch a rendered story I'll watch a CGI movie...

[NamPaehc]

If the screen shots of this game didn't look so good I doubt anybody would care at all, the gameplay looks boring as hell

If I want to watch a story I'll watch a movie... if I want to watch a rendered story I'll watch a CGI movie...

Well you were watching a trailer so... that isn't going to be very fluid lol.

[CoffeeEdge]

The story continuing beyond character deaths, I think was tried in Omnikron too. Doubt it will be the same thing but perhaps this is the progression of that idea?

It would still have to happen at set points. They'd have to provide something, for each possibility. It's not going to just generate plot and dialogue out of nowhere; it WILL be done by design.

Games can't write their plots dynamically, despite what QD claims.

[Razzuel]

If the screen shots of this game didn't look so good I doubt anybody would care at all, the gameplay looks boring as hell

If I want to watch a story I'll watch a movie... if I want to watch a rendered story I'll watch a CGI movie...

Yeah I had a similar thought when I saw the trailer. Quick time events or whatever you wish to call them while watching a cut scene is rather boring.

I really wish developers would try their damnedest to combine gameplay and story. Quick time events are the easy way out.

[pete5883]

What's really interesting to me in the concept of main characters dying (due to player actions) and the story continuing on despite that. Leads me to think that they're aiming for even more elastic plot points. That was a real strength of Indigo Prophecy despite it's other flaws.
You thought IP's plot was elastic? Yes, you could change what happened, but 3 minutes later it never mattered. I guess it's elastic in you can try to stretch it, but as soon as you let go it snaps back to where it was.

[TimPV3]

If I want to watch a story I'll watch a movie... if I want to watch a rendered story I'll watch a CGI movie...If I want to hear from you I'll fart...

[NamPaehc]

Games can't write their plots dynamically, despite what QD claims.

No, not 100%. But they can try to some how emulate the "choice your own adventure books" and give you varied endings.

Though, I think that is your point and it makes sense... There sounds like there will be certain points where you can lose a character but that most likely is planned out.

I also like that when you fail certain actions, you'll have visuals characteristics that'll follow the character. I always wanted to see that. Get punched in the face, and you'll have a black-eye for the rest of the game.

[Vanigan]

Elastic? Yes. Completely open ended? No.

By elastic I meant exactly what you were talking about, you could do things within a scene or across multiple scenes out of order, even skipping certain steps and the game could handle it and even kept track of such things. But at the end of the day that elastic band of the plot was still anchored between two locked down points.

I think people are misinterpreting my like of this elastic plot style as believing it'll all be some freeform plot that can roam all over. Nope. I just like the way IP handled it because in all honesty, the way it handled those little elements non-linearly was a lot better than most other games out there. Not that the game did much else well though.

Think about it this way, there aren't a whole lot of other games that have these elements on non-linearity that also have a good deal of story.

[NamPaehc]

Some pictures and info on the mocap crew. (http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.play3-live.com%2Fnews-ps3-heavy-rain-dans-les-coulisses-de-la-motion-capture-9841.html&hl=fr&ie=UTF8&sl=fr&tl=en)

[CoffeeEdge]

I just like the way IP handled it because in all honesty, the way it handled those little elements non-linearly was a lot better than most other games out there.

Maybe I don't remember IP well or something (it's been a couple years), but from what I recall, it seemed to me that most of the "elasticity" was just different ways to get game over screens, if you skipped over some tiny detail.

[Vanigan]

Actually, one of the big elastic plot elements was how you handled the crime scene and getting away from the area. The game tracked a lot of that and depending on what you did it changed the investigation in little ways.

The game over screen stuff was just more of that stupid Simon game.

[Zombiebride]

They Mo-Caped a dog? :O I am looking at it but it better not be boring.. and it better be creepy as hell.

[CoffeeEdge]

Actually, one of the big elastic plot elements was how you handled the crime scene and getting away from the area. The game tracked a lot of that and depending on what you did it changed the investigation in little ways.
Yeah, there were a lot of variables in that one scene, but I think they kind of blew their wad during the first five minutes of the game, really.

Within an hour, I didn't notice anything I chose during the beginning having any further effects, and no other choices I made seemed to have any effects 3 minutes after I made them.

They Mo-Caped a dog?
Cue complaints from animal protection groups.

[NamPaehc]

Details on how the game controls. (http://kotaku.com/5039720/heres-how-heavy-rains-controls-work)

Quantic Dream's David Cage walked us through a Heavy Rain demo at Games Convention last week, giving us a taste of how the game actually plays. While much of the presentation touched on facets of Heavy Rain's "rubber band" storyline and little things, like motion captured eye movement, Cage paused often to talk up the PlayStation 3 game's control scheme.

We've already written about the driving game inspired character control -- the R2 button moves her forward, with the left analog steering her head and shoulders -- so let's focus on how everything else is done.

After discussing how the character walks, Cage showed us how to interact with objects. Outside of the residence that the protagonist was investigating were a pair of metal trashcans and a mailbox. Both could be opened with the right analog stick, using forward and back motions that translated to on-screen movement. Pulling back on the stick fully opened the mailbox door fully, pushing it forward closed it. You may have seen this interactivity showcased in the game's Games Convention trailer, with the character opening a refrigerator with a sweeping arc of the right analog stick.

Heading up to the house's front door, a context sensitive control scheme appeared in the bottom right corner, giving us two options — knock or ring the doorbell. Both could done repeatedly, with a side to side motion of the right stick.

Following that, another context sensitive control option became available, letting the player call out to whomever might be inside. This was done with SIXAXIS control, giving us three dialogue options. This could be done in concert with the knocking/doorbell-ringing for maximum annoyance to whomever might be at home.

As the character walked around the house's right side, we encountered a barrel. It wasn't of the exploding type, just a regular, non-combustible barrel that Cage wanted to use as a step. Pushing the object over with the square button, his controlling assistant pushed it forward with a thrust forward of the SIXAXIS. To right it again, he hit the square button.

Heavy Rain also gives players access to internal dialogue. Using the L1 button, we can listen to the main character's thoughts, giving players helpful clues about how to progress or simply to learn her opinion about the pros and cons of the current situation. There were two options when deciding whether to break and enter the house, one "daring", one "cautious."

Much of what we saw in the house was controlled via these methods, with brief Quick Time Events requiring randomized button presses. One, triggered by bumping into an overturned bottle, simply required a quick push of the triangle button.

Perhaps the most interesting implementation of the PlayStation 3 controller was during one of the stealth-action sequences. Forced to hide from the killer during the demo, the protagonist sneaked behind an open door, something that required the player hold X, then the R1 button, then the triangle button.

Another version of this sort of finger Twister game occurred when she sought shelter in a large wardrobe, requiring four consecutive button presses. We didn't actually see anyone from Quantic Dream fail at this, but it added a nice bit of tension to the scene.

Some of these control methods have been featured in Quantic Dream's previous games, but Heavy Rain looks to bring them all together into a cohesive package that feels thoroughly well implemented. We definitely look forward to going hands-on with the PlayStation 3 controller whenever Sony decides that's something it wants us to do.

[CoffeeEdge]

Outside of the residence that the protagonist was investigating were a pair of metal trashcans and a mailbox. Both could be opened with the right analog stick, using forward and back motions that translated to on-screen movement. Pulling back on the stick fully opened the mailbox door fully, pushing it forward closed it. You may have seen this interactivity showcased in the game's Games Convention trailer, with the character opening a refrigerator with a sweeping arc of the right analog stick.
God damn it....it's going to be Indigo Prophecy again.

[happy]

Considering Indigo Prophecy was well reviewed and sold fairly well (800k according to wikipedia) I don't think anyone can be surprised they're using the same formula and trying to improve it in various ways.

That said I never played indigo prophecy, so maybe the reviews/sales figures are misleading, but presumably it had many redeeming features.

[dpatel]

IP was definitely one of my favorite games of last gen. I think the problem people had with it, and rightfully so, is that it didn't come close to what the developers had promised. The game itself, in my opinion, was great, but it didn't live up to the hype. It seems this will be the case with HR as well. With that said, I try not to take everything a developer says about their own product too much to heart (especially from one who has disappointed in the past), and I still am very excited about the game.

[Vanigan]

Eh, I'm glad it's not the generic Simon style things, however it's still basically button presses. The only way I'll accept that is if they integrate them into the game better instead of two giant glaring color pads on screen.

They really need to actually show more of the elastic plot elements to get me convinced.

[orko60]

I'm excited for this game. I just bought a used copy of IP, and I'm digging it so far (not too far in). I don't understand the hate that some of you have. He's not claiming (as far as I can tell) that you'll change everything about the story, but that it will have "rubberband" gameplay. Just like your elastic analogy, that's what he means. I dig that. I know that I'm on a railroad, but it gives you a little bit of freedom within that.

[Vanigan]

Heh, Orko, you'll hit the reasons why some of us really dislike IP in short time. About halfway through the story things just get way too absurd and all that great build up goes down the drain.

[NamPaehc]

Well commenting directly about the controls in Heavy Rain, they well enough to me. Just makes me ponder what if the big N's system had the power to run a game like this? Using motion controls to open things might be interesting. Here I guess they are doing their best to map it to a standard controller.

The "button twister" sounds interesting too, I don't think I've played a game that has that yet.

[NamPaehc]

The game picked up a few awards (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=226743), which is interesting since no one actually got to play the game themselves. The PS3 seemed to have a good showing all around.

[DarkNessBear]

They basically added a feature that I have been saying for a while a game should implement.

Dieing doesn't end the game.

David Cage, director of Heavy Rain (http://www.ps3fanboy.com/tag/heavy-rain), disclosed an interesting tidbit of info back at LGC: the main character of the game, as seen above, can be killed and the player will still be able to continue the game. "I can't really tell you too much about what the story's about or how it's going to work with the characters, all I can tell you that your character -- the main character -- can die, and the story will continue," Cage told VG247 (http://www.videogaming247.com/2008/09/10/heavy-rain-if-the-main-girl-dies-you-can-keep-playing-the-big-story/). "You can continue to play, without this character, of course."



Which I basically said in my old thread that was totally bashed on:
http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=173170

[NamPaehc]

Game might be only about 8-12 hours long. (http://www.videogaming247.com/2008/09/12/heavy-rain-play-target-is-8-12-hours-says-cage/)

Not a big deal if you can have a different experience each play through.

peaking to VG247 at Games Convention, Quantic Dream boss David Cage said a single walk through of top drawer PS3 thriller Heavy Rain is likely to take no more than 12 hours.

“We’re still in the middle of production, so I can’t really tell you the exact time of the game, but we’re targeting a game between eight and 12 hours in gameplay for one walk through,” he said.

Seen for the first time in Germany last month, the game showed what appeared to be unparalleled plot-branching, a fact, Cage said, likely to keep the hardcore coming back for much more.

“It’s impossible in one walk through to see everything there is to see,” he added.

“And that’s going to be OK. For most gamers, they’re going to play it once, and really enjoy it and have a great journey, but some hardcore gamers will want to come back and see everything, and all possible options.”

Heavy Rain has been branded PS3’s “most important title for next year” by SCEE boss David Reeves.

[Vanigan]

That's longer than Way of the Samurai, which had a similar play length but had a lot of different scene outcomes and endings.

[NamPaehc]

From Neogaf: (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=340777)

This game is just amazing. The presentation is in French (from Micromania expo in France), but some features of the game should be translated in English in a few minutes.

video : http://www.gamekyo.com/videoen13496_...ion-video.html (http://www.gamekyo.com/videoen13496_heavy-rain-public-presentation-video.html)

mirror (faster ?) : http://www.gamekyo.com/videoen13497_...eo-mirror.html (http://www.gamekyo.com/videoen13497_heavy-rain-public-presentation-video-mirror.html)

>>DIRECT LINK (http://www.ps3camp.info/trash/Heavy_Rain_3.flv)>>

some features of the demo :

- In this demo, the player takes the role of a young journalist who is investigating on several girls' disappearances, she goes to a house of a taxidermist who is suspected of killing these women. In this presentation, the Producer of the game shows 2 different ways to finish this demo, there are lots of different ways to get through the story.

- Multiple view camera system, not always behind the girl.

- The demo is fully playable, no cut-scenes, the player can control the girl at any time.

- The Sixaxis motion sensor is used in the game to make different moves (open a window, raise or hit on an object, etc.).

- It is possible to hear what is happening in the mind of the character, so the player knows the different choices that are available.

- No loadings in the game!

- Backgrounds are fully interactive (all objects can be used, all doors can be opened, etc.).

- Very interesting Split Screen System to keep an eye on the murderer, control the character at the same time.

- The player has to maintain several buttons to stay hidden, uncomfortable situation for the player to reproduce the same stress in the game.

- Quick time events for some action scenes.

[NamPaehc]

New impressions. (http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3171774)

There are a few others links to other sites with new stuff too but I don't have them right now.

[NamPaehc]

New Screens, click here. (http://media.ps3.gamespy.com/media/811/811232/imgs_1.html)http://ps3media.gamespy.com/ps3/image/article/937/937716/heavy-rain-20081211010339036_640w.jpg

BRAND new interview (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/43600.html). Enjoy??

[Vanigan]

Yep, adventure games never died, they were just waiting for the next technological leap to make them fresh again.

I think other companies could make something along the level of Heavy Rain, albeit without all the extra realism. By going with stylized, maybe even cartoony, characters as they have in the past, but worked with big branching scripts, we could see a resurgence of them.

Oh, and I'm working on my 3D animation finals right now and those shots of the 3D face models actually helped me a lot in figuring out how to handle the detail, especially with things like the hairline.

[stormrider81]

This game has my interest. Any word on a release date?

[Vanigan]

Likely Q4 2009 to Q2 2010 unless they're farther than they're letting on.

Sony has a habit of showing games way before they're released.

[Fragonard]

If this game is good, it alone will be worth owning a PS3 for me. Please god, let it be good.

[happy]

Likely Q4 2009 to Q2 2010 unless they're farther than they're letting on.

Sony has a habit of showing games way before they're released.

I always thought it was first half of 2009 for some reason. They should release it over the summer and learn from this year that new non-shooter IPs do not belong in the fall.

[NamPaehc]

blog update from a few days ago: (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2008/12/18/inside-the-heavy-rain-press-event/)


Hello everyone! My name is Guillaume de Fondaumiere (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guillaume_de_Fondaumi%C3%A8re), co-CEO at Quantic Dream (http://www.quanticdream.com/) and executive producer of Heavy Rain (http://uk.playstation.com/games-media/games/detail/item116069/Heavy-Rain/).
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3111/3100853256_23120b843e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/playstationblog/3100853256/)
Last month, a group of roughly 35 journalists from around the world came to visit Quantic Dream. Following our first presentation of Heavy Rain in Leipzig (http://blog.us.playstation.com/tag/leipzig08/) in August (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2008/09/03/heavy-rain-quantic-dreams-leipzig-experience/), we wanted to be able to share our passion for the game and reveal in particular how such a massive project comes to life. When you play a game such as this, it is difficult to really understand how much effort goes into its production. Our hope was that through such a visit, we might be able to educate gamers a bit more on how a game is crafted and how important artistic direction is to ensure a consistent experience from the first to the last minute.
Following a quick tour of our studio, David Cage (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Cage), Quantic’s CEO and creative director on Heavy Rain, gathered media in our motion capture studio located on the ground floor of our building. We had decided to present them the complete production process, from game design and initial concept art up until the final integration of all elements within one scene in real-time. The presentation lasted roughly two hours, in particular because we had prepared a number of making-of type videos and real-time code on PS3 illustrating the different steps of 3D set production, actor casting, 3D character creation, and Virtual Actor performance. At the end, we explored together a never before shown scene of the game live on PLAYSTATION 3 in which all elements had been put together.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3112/3100853152_980bae89ce.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/playstationblog/3100853152/)

I think the most fascinating aspect of Heavy Rain is the fact that more than 250 people are contributing to its making, all of which are working under the artistic supervision of David Cage, His attention to detail is really fascinating…I am sitting in the back of our studio while he is passionately talking about our project. More than anyone else in the team, Heavy Rain is his baby. For the past two and a half years, I can clearly feel how proud he is to show how his vision is coming to life.
For the end of the tour, we had prepared a little surprise for our guests: to practice live on stage and become a Virtual Actor in the game. We equipped two journalists with body suits and reflectors. The stage had been dressed with set elements: a door, two chairs, one table, a cupboard. David briefed the two journalists on the scene, explaining to each of them what their role were, the starting point of the scene, and what they were supposed to say and play.
Once fully equipped the two casually entered the stage. The rest of the crowd had assembled around the set, in a similar casual fashion. However, when David started to use his firm directing voice to ask for silence and pronounced the first syllabus of the typical movie-style check-up words “ready to roll. Rolling and….ACTION” we virtually felt the attention of our journalists-turned-actors spinning from vaguely alert to 100% focused. The crowd was holding its breath, as all assembled immediately sensed the change. David had decided to shoot the scene in three distinct steps. The first shot was repeated twice as David gave more direction to its actors after initial takes. The second and third shots however were played exactly how David had envisioned them. Our actors were “in their roles” and did actually play quite professionally. A big round of applause followed the last “…and CUT” words of David at the end of the third shot.
This concluded the presentation and the rest of the tour was spent answering interviews or casually discussing with the journalists what they had seen before.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3139/3100852854_1d3d399df5.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/playstationblog/3100852854/)
When the game was unveiled at Games Convention (http://www.gc-germany.com/index.php?page=64) in Leipzig, we were obviously delighted at what a great response we received. With the event that day, we wanted to take the unique opportunity to let journalists and gamers around the world take a look behind the scenes at how Heavy Rain is made. It is a very special feeling to see at the precise moment when everything comes together and is being assembled to create what we believe will be a unique interactive experience. We hope that we were able to communicate how much innovation and artistic effort goes into its production and look forward to showing you more (http://blog.us.playstation.com/tag/heavy-rain/) of the actual game in the coming months.

[Thomas96]

They basically added a feature that I have been saying for a while a game should implement.

Dieing doesn't end the game.





Which I basically said in my old thread that was totally bashed on:
http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=173170

For RPGs, and games like Heavy Rain that's a good feature, but for an action game like Halo, or Tomb raider dieing not ending the game might not work. Knowing that your character is so vulnerable will change the way that people approach the game, definitely will make the game (heavy rain) more immersive. However the only issue that I have with real dying is that you make a mistake and you have to pay for it throughout the entire game. A fix for that would be for that character to perhaps be unavailable for a while, maybe he or she has to go to the hospital and maybe some chapters later gets better and released -but it has to be a woven into the main story. I would love to see an in game graphics movie made as a special feature for Heavy Rain, where you can watch the game like a movie after you beat it.

I looked through the link to the old thread, you know you try to discuss something intelligently and all you get are jokes, and immature comments...

[NamPaehc]

There are a few new screens and artwork mixed in here. (http://games.tiscali.cz/clanek/screen.asp?id=10715)

[DarkNessBear]

This is my most anticipated game, can't wait!

[DarkKenpachi]

the more I hear about this game, the more I am intrigued. I can honestly say now that I can not wait.

[NamPaehc]

PSblog says the next Qore "issue" should have some heavy rain info. But from the sound of things, it may just be some mo-cap details.

In Paris, Veronica Belmont searches for answers about Heavy Rain as she dons the mo-cap suit at Quantic Dream (http://www.quanticdream.com/) where they aspire to redefine “interactive cinema” with this film-noir adventure title.

[odintal]

i'm generally confused because i haven't played Indigo Prophecy.

are these games like the old school Dragon's Lair game?

[pete5883]

During the cutscenes, yes. The rest of the game is different.

[Vanigan]

Actually, David Cage, the director has said he's basically turning as much as he can that would have been non-interactive cutscenes into gameplay.

Yes, in theory it's similar to say, Dragon's Lair, or perhaps classic adventure games. However, it's best to think of this as the next evolution of adventure games. The game isn't just a series of QTEs like in Dragon's Lair or similar games, and it's not just point and click like in adventure games. Your choices matter in the game, it matters to an extent where you don't just die, or can't progress when you make a wrong decision, there are now many outcomes and game segments between them.

For example, as you go searching through the serial killer's house, you can choose to search quickly and recklessly, but that might get you discovered later on if you knock stuff over or leave things on/open.

[odintal]

sounds like i need to play IP.

i'm not much for QTE but i love adventure games.

[near]

New artwork (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen29653_heavy-rain-unveil-new-artworks.html)

Art direction is fucking awesome.

[zenprime]

Whoo! I so want this game. I'm currently not feeling "it" with Silent Hill 5 so I have high hopes of Heavy Rain having the touch.

[Richlough]

I hope there is some good E3 coverage of this .

[NamPaehc]

I hope there is some good E3 coverage of this .

Me too. But we won't have to wait that long. There was a quote from a PSBlog writer stating a new interview should be up around the 22nd.

[dimeadz]

I enjoyed Indigo Prophecy. This is one i will be watching out for.

[NamPaehc]

New details should be released over the next few days.

Here is an early "teaser image" of some characters.

http://m2.n4g.com/8/News/330000/330626_1_hs.jpg

[NamPaehc]

ok so my joystiq preview pieces are now being unlocked, though today's won't be done for a little while longer. Going to be giving some insights into the developers and the development leading up to this Friday with a hands on preview! Including a nice video...

Go ahead and cehck out the early parts HERE though. (http://www.1up.com/do/minisite?cId=3174272)

[Richlough]

ok so my joystiq preview pieces are now being unlocked, though today's won't be done for a little while longer. Going to be giving some insights into the developers and the development leading up to this Friday with a hands on preview! Including a nice video...

Go ahead and cehck out the early parts HERE though. (http://www.1up.com/do/minisite?cId=3174272)

Are you a journalist ?

[NamPaehc]

New screens. (http://www.eurogamer.pt/gallery.php?game_id=9088&article_id=573523)

Neo vs Bishop?

Big joystiq reveil tomorrow.

[CoffeeEdge]

Roll on, hype machine, roll on.


In my continued efforts to never let David Cage/Quantic Dream live down the "we have conquered the Uncanny Valley" comment, I present...some screens that don't look much different than any of the other best-looking games this gen:
http://images.eurogamer.net/assets/articles//a/5/7/3/5/2/3/ss_preview_2_1__7_.jpg.jpg?slideshow=true http://images.eurogamer.net/assets/articles//a/5/7/3/5/2/3/ss_preview_2_1__11_.jpg.jpg?slideshow=true http://images.eurogamer.net/assets/articles//a/5/7/3/5/2/3/ss_preview_2_1__8_.jpg.jpg?slideshow=true

Ah yes, each one looks just like a photograph. :roll:

I really hope that some interviewer hold's Cage's feet to the fire about that comment, someday. You can't say shit like he did, and back it up with something that looks this much (http://images.eurogamer.net/assets/articles//a/5/7/3/5/2/3/ss_preview_2_1__3_.jpg.jpg?slideshow=true) like any other top-of-the-line videogame graphics.

The gameplay and story in this had better be fucking incredible...

[Vanigan]

The demo shown a few months ago looked better actually, the one with the journalist in the crazy taxidermist killer's house.

And honestly, if you forget the brash statements and take the game for what it is, it still has the potential to be a fucking incredible game based on what he wants to do with the gameplay.

So long as that's good, I can deal with graphics that don't live up to some stupid statements.

People need to not get so hung up on stupid marketing hyperbole.

[MisterBee]

After watching the GTTV stuff this morning, I don't think this game is for me. The style looks cool but something about the gameplay just doesn't appeal to me.

Also the whole stripping scene really didn't click with me. It probably makes more sense in the context of the game, but just cut out and put in a trailer makes it really seem out of place and almost like its there to sell teenage boys on the game.

[NamPaehc]

Ok check out 1UP for a large preview (http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3174347), and a few other places have smaller previews too.

If you are not into QTE's or "Choose Your Own Adventure" then this might not be for you. But, believe it or not there are actually people out there who enjoy such things... Like me.

[CoffeeEdge]

LOL, I bet a bunch of previous QTE-opponents suddenly will tolerate them for this one game. :roll:

[Shrapnellistic]

The newest gameplay videos aren't as polished as the first gameplay we saw (female journalist in taxidermist's house) - what's up with that?

[CoffeeEdge]

The newest gameplay videos aren't as polished as the first gameplay we saw (female journalist in taxidermist's house) - what's up with that?

Because that video was bullshit, meant to drum up hype.

It's a pretty standard industry practice. Not surprising that Heavy Rain succumbs to it as well, to those who can see through QD's ridiculous claims.

[robin2099]

Because that video was bullshit, meant to drum up hype.

It's a pretty standard industry practice. Not surprising that Heavy Rain succumbs to it as well, to those who can see through QD's ridiculous claims.

Ugh, your not starting this again are you. This is getting really annoying when you have nothing better to do than bash the developers and the game cause of a personal vendetta.

[CoffeeEdge]

Ugh, your not starting this again are you. This is getting really annoying when you have nothing better to do than bash the developers and the game cause of a personal vendetta.


There's nothing "personal" about it.

Not only did they lie to and string-along the entire gaming public with their insane promises, but by extension, they also spit in the face of the entire collective computer art community and industry alike by claiming to have bested all of their efforts at realism throughout the entire history of computer graphics, and then after enormous gaps of media silence, they put forward this (http://www.1up.com/media/03/7/1/5/lg/531.jpg) as the fruits of their labor, and the supposed fulfillment of their claims and ambitions. You can't even chalk it up to being a shameless marketing tactic that Sony put them up to; David Cage is known to be an egomaniac.

And I won't even start on gameplay here, other than to say that QTE's and context-sensitive buttons might have been fairly innovative, had this game come out in 2001. To call this a revolution in gameplay and interactive storytelling? Insulting.

The otherwise enthused will brush this off, but I consider the entire existence of Heavy Rain to be a gross insult (again, not a personal one, as stated), which I believe they deserve to be punished for and reminded of for the rest of time. Because I'm a jerk like that, I guess.

[Vanigan]

*rubs fingers together*

This is the worlds smallest violin is playing for your sense of self righteousness.

Get over it. It's a game, and if you really think it's an insult, do better, become a developer and top them. Otherwise, other developers aren't really complaining, they're too busy actually making games for a living to worry about one outspoken guy doing what outspoken gasbags normally do, which is *gasp* speak hyperbole about their game that they want to sell. Hell, every developer does this.

And even despite all the Heavy Rain still looks like a groundbreaking game on many levels.

[CoffeeEdge]

And even despite all the Heavy Rain still looks like a groundbreaking game on many levels.

Name one.

[Gspoon]

New clips and Gameplay footage

GAMETRAILERS.COM (http://www.gametrailers.com/game/heavy-rain-the-origami-killer/2717)

[TruthinessFC]

The otherwise enthused will brush this off, but I consider the entire existence of Heavy Rain to be a gross insult (again, not a personal one, as stated), which I believe they deserve to be punished for and reminded of for the rest of time. Because I'm a jerk like that, I guess.
Talk about getting swept away by the hype.. wow.

http://i41.tinypic.com/2q9ihef.jpg

[McNutsack]

There's nothing "personal" about it.

Because I'm a jerk like that, I guess.

No, just a tool.

[CoffeeEdge]

No, just a tool.

Miter saw.

[NamPaehc]

EVERYONE please try and keep the personal stuff out of this thread. I humbly ask you to "take it outside" via message or a blog, just lets try and have enough respect to keep this thread on track.

[DarkNessBear]

Yea CoffeeEdge get the fuck out of here.

[CoffeeEdge]

Yea CoffeeEdge get the fuck out of here.

What? I never made any personal remarks to anyone. McNutsack is the one who decided to make things personal by calling me a "tool," so maybe he should be the one to "get the fuck out of here."

Now, if we're talking about personal opinions about this game, well, what else is this thread supposed to discuss?

Honestly, NamPaehc, do you believe and expect that the way this thread should play out is just you posting every trivial update about this game, get a few posts about "looks great, can't wait to play it," rinse, repeat? Is that what you're asking for? Because if you want people to "keep the personal stuff out of this thread," then please direct that at McNutsack et al.

[Kanik]

When I saw the preview video I went "huh", just doesn't look like the game that was presented last year. Actually, it kinds looks like the Matrix Online...very unpolished.

The QTE gameplay looks interesting, but I keep reminding myself how frustrated I was with RE5's surprise QTE cutscenes, especially towards the end.

[robin2099]

What? I never made any personal remarks to anyone. McNutsack is the one who decided to make things personal by calling me a "tool," so maybe he should be the one to "get the fuck out of here."

Now, if we're talking about personal opinions about this game, well, what else is this thread supposed to discuss?

Honestly, NamPaehc, do you believe and expect that the way this thread should play out is just you posting every trivial update about this game, get a few posts about "looks great, can't wait to play it," rinse, repeat? Is that what you're asking for? Because if you want people to "keep the personal stuff out of this thread," then please direct that at McNutsack et al.

You basically make it personal when you constantly come in her and bash the game, and seemingly make it your life long goal to bash it, Quantic Dream and the developers. We get it, you hate the game, but most of us have had enough, going back to when you got the original thread closed for the exact same crap.

[CoffeeEdge]

You basically make it personal when you constantly come in her and bash the game, and seemingly make it your life long goal to bash it, Quantic Dream and the developers. We get it, you hate the game, but most of us have had enough, going back to when you got the original thread closed for the exact same crap.

LOL, I did? I didn't even remember.

Anyways, no. It's no worse than the pattern of NamPaehc posting every trivial update about this game. It's just a pattern of repetition.

[robin2099]

LOL, I did? I didn't even remember.

Anyways, no. It's no worse than the pattern of NamPaehc posting every trivial update about this game. It's just a pattern of repetition.

Not really. He actually, you know posts information and updates about the game since it's the official news and discussion thread for it. Your doing nothing but trolling and ranting about things, when no one really cares. So again, not really the same thing.

[CoffeeEdge]

Not really. He actually, you know posts information and updates about the game since it's the official news and discussion thread for it. Your doing nothing but trolling and ranting about things, when no one really cares. So again, not really the same thing.

I never knew that people "caring" was a requirement for posting.

But fine, dude. I'll leave for a while. But next time I tell someone to STFU and GTFO, they'd better do it, in exchange for this.

[DarkNessBear]

Nobody has a problem with you voicing your opinions on a game, even if they are negative (a few posts above Kanik basically says he doesn't think the game looks any good). It's just how you do it - it's ruthless (and unstopping) and this wouldn't be the first case either. You're a smart guy and I enjoy reading your opinions about things, but you can often times get carried away.

@THREAD- BUT not wanting to take away from this thread - I actually am uneasy about the lack of polish it currently has. The "test" level they showed looked very natural and detailed, but what they have showed recently is lacking heart (minus the club scene - that looks pretty nice). Although, they did say they have a long way in terms of polishing. I'm just excited for it because my girlfriend is, she wants to be a criminal profiler and so this game is pretty much a dream game for her.

[NamPaehc]

Questions Answered on the PSBlog. (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/05/22/heavy-rain-your-questions-answered/)

States the game is still in alpha, a little surprising to me if they want it out by the end of the year.

[laaj]

Questions Answered on the PSBlog. (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/05/22/heavy-rain-your-questions-answered/)

States the game is still in alpha, a little surprising to me if they want it out by the end of the year.

I don't think you know what alpha means. Alpha means all the work on the gameplay and content are about done. All that remains is making the game work without bugs and tweak the game. Beta is when the entire game is playable just incase you're wondering.

[Thongsy]

Hmmm, an adventure game. I may need to look into this when it comes out. I haven't really looked at any previews. If I enjoyed Shenmue, and Dreamfall, will I like this?

[chuckywang]

How do you actually play this game? In all the videos I've seen, the only thing you can do is press the trigger to move forward and play some minigames God of War style.

[Kanik]

I don't think you know what alpha means. Alpha means all the work on the gameplay and content are about done. All that remains is making the game work without bugs and tweak the game. Beta is when the entire game is playable just incase you're wondering.

Ya - they had the Alpha version of DC Universe playable at NY Comic Con. What I played could've easily been released as a game.

[Ecofreak]

Watched the GT TV show from this week -- and I'm glad to know that it's a more complex experience than simply a bunch of QTEs. Having done some research on "Indigo Prophecy/Fahrenheit," I am really quite interested in seeing how this game turns out.

Only problem is that I'm a "scaredy cat" and I'm not too sure how well I could handle a suspense thriller that is "plausible" in real life (and one reason why I don't watch CSI and their ilk). Still, I'm curious to see how "mature" the game goes and the interplay between the four different characters.

[NamPaehc]

I don't think you know what alpha means. Alpha means all the work on the gameplay and content are about done. All that remains is making the game work without bugs and tweak the game. Beta is when the entire game is playable just incase you're wondering.

No I know what alpha means... Lets say distribution takes about a month and a half. If it comes out at the end of December, being pressed sometime in mid November, that gives them like 5 1/2 months to polish. Can it be done? Oh yeah.

I guess I just prefer for them to be sitting on a beta for months because you really never know what issues might pop up on any part of the product. :D Luckily this isn't an online intensive title, but it has been in development for so long I'm surprised they are so confident to have it cleaned up and gleaming brightly for us this year. Not that I mind.

Again not saying it doesn't happen, but that I am used to them "dragging" things out because this has been in development for so long.

[laaj]

Again not saying it doesn't happen, but that I am used to them "dragging" things out because this has been in development for so long.

I'd say they're more closer to beta than alpha just by looking at the gameplay video from Gametrailers. So I'm not worried at all :D. And Sony can easily fast track the distribution of this game since they are publishing it.

[NamPaehc]

New interview. (http://spong.com/feature/10109943/Interview-Inside_Heavy_Rain) Touch on a lot of the same things we've seen before but I noticed some interesting portions too.

David Cage is also keynoting GDC Euro this year.

[dimeadz]

Good interview. If it is anything like Indigo Prophecy, i will be happy.

[ihadFG]

If it is anything like Indigo Prophecy, i will be happy.

Same here.

I think that anyone who isn't sure what this game will possibly play like should play that game first. That way they can see if this type of game is for them or not.

[Serpentor]

So, if the game is in Alpha stage, there's enough time to release it this year right? Honestly, i still have zero clue how the game is played... It's not a supernatural type of game is it?

[FriskyTanuki]

No, they said during E3 that it would be out early 2010.

[NamPaehc]

So, if the game is in Alpha stage, there's enough time to release it this year right? Honestly, i still have zero clue how the game is played... It's not a supernatural type of game is it?

Yeah, FriskyT is right. I was freaking out too until I saw it was confirmed for next year.

>>>And as far as supernatural, who knows with these developers... But I think they are trying to base it on reality mostly.

[ck76]

Appreciate all the information, curious about this title now.

[Vanigan]

Also note that the final 10% polish is usually put in months before its released, before that it's all getting the core systems and gameplay working as they should. They're still working on those systems that will give it that final polish, but before that it's a lot of testing. This is why you don't see more complex facial animation (e.g. the puppet style mouth movements in early showings) in what they've shown, and a lot of locales look a bit bland right now.

[NamPaehc]

If you hurry you can get your questions to the devs via the PSblog still. (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/08/10/heavy-rain-interview-submit-your-questions/)

[coolz481]

Oh how I wish this was coming in December...looks great!

[dimeadz]

Thanks NamPaehc! I submitted my question. I hope it gets answered.

[NamPaehc]

New "For Love" Trailer from event is up. (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/54361.html)

[Ecofreak]

That's a great trailer!

And I love the new PS splash screen with the ribbon of red. Very stylish and eye catching.

[Scorch]

Since they first showed off the "audition" trailer, this has been one of my most anticipated games. I'm glad to see that it has come this far. The game looks fantastic and will undoubtedly be a GOTY contender, if not GOTY, in 2010.

[Shrapnellistic]

No one else has a problem with the way the characters move? Very noticeable for a game revolving around character interaction.

[NamPaehc]

Here are two new gameplay footage videos. Nothing earth shattering BUT slight spoiler warning if you want to go into this cold, don't watch these.


"Robbery" (http://ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/811232/quantic-dream-project/videos/gcom09_hrain_robbery_081909.html)

"Save the day." (http://ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/811232/quantic-dream-project/videos/gcom09_hrain_savestheday_081909.html)

[Thomas96]

No one else has a problem with the way the characters move? Very noticeable for a game revolving around character interaction.


they moved pretty good to me...

[NamPaehc]

The PS Blog has another video demo of the same scene I posted above. Though it is handled differently this time. I skipped ahead only to find his outcome a bit different and had to scroll back to see what he did. Pretty cool!

You can find that HERE (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/08/20/gamescom-virtual-booth-tour-heavy-rain/).

Also they mentioned the PS blog user questions will be answered and posted next week!

[serenitygod]

The twenty minute trailer on youtube is awesome.
I don't think there is anything supernatural about this game though

[Barnolde]

My most anticipated game of 2010. It makes me all the more excited because it concentrates on telling a story instead of just mindless shooting, which is so incredibly refreshing these days.

[NamPaehc]

There is some issues starting to bubble up about some 'mo-cap sex scene". Which I think is just the striptease scene. Cage defended it here, saying he wants to push things and make the player uncomfortable. (http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/cage-defends-madison-striptease-scene)

I know I am and I haven't even played it yet. People are staying Sony/others are asking them to tone it down for ratings. Here we go again... I want it all in there!

[Dahk]

Besides God of War III, this is easily my most anticipated title for the PS3. I hope they let them tell their story the way they want to, without censorship.

[cgarb84]

First time posting in here, just stopping by to say how much I am looking forward to this game. Earlier this year I played and finished Indigo Prophecy and really enjoyed it a lot(well....the first 3/4 of the game at least). This is easily one of my most anticipated games for next year.

[NamPaehc]

Spoiler alert!

THIS site as a link to IGN's exclusive video (http://www.hiphopgamershow.com/2009/09/new-heavy-rain-footage-is-re-defining-next-generation-entertainment/) ( at least I thought it was meant to be exclusive to them...).

Some clips of a playthrough with the father and son characters.

>>Yeah here they all go, with better resolutions.. Again watch out for spoilers...

Cage interview. (http://ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/811232/quantic-dream-project/videos/heavyrain_intv_083109.html)

"In the Rain" (http://ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/811232/quantic-dream-project/videos/heavyrain_gmp_in_the_rain_83109.html)

"Coming Home" (http://ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/811232/quantic-dream-project/videos/heavyrain_gmp_coming_home_83109.html)

"Memories" (http://ps3.ign.com/dor/objects/811232/quantic-dream-project/videos/heavyrain_gmp_memories_83109.html)

[NamPaehc]

OK! I wasn't going to post his hoping someone else would... But the stripping scene is online. Now as a warning it is NOT WORK SAFE... So be careful.

And beyond that it most certainly contains spoilers. I only watched a few seconds just to make sure it was legit.

The idea is kind odd now that I think about it, the idea of the scene is a little unsettling. What they are going for I know but... are we ready for this kind of content? Sure it isn't that bad, games can be for adults too but I do ponder how this will be received. I mean, people were upset over the name of fat princess! How will they react when they learn you can direct a topless woman around?




***Nudity warning***


Strip show footage. (http://www.zshare.net/video/660801956376ae12/)

[Thongsy]

I don't think it will be that big of a deal depending on how far into the game it is. Since the people buying this will be getting it for the actual content and story. If it's deep enough into the game, I don't see it being a problem since what idiot will buy the game for a minute of nudity that will take them x number of hours to reach when they can just search google and get all the free porn they want.

Actually just watching the video had me feeling unconfortable too. I kinda hate that all the hype around this game is around the nudity instead of it being an actual game with a story.

[CoffeeEdge]

The idea is kind odd now that I think about it, the idea of the scene is a little unsettling. What they are going for I know but... are we ready for this kind of content? Sure it isn't that bad, games can be for adults too but I do ponder how this will be received.
Do you think that this is the first time there have been titties in a videogame or something.

I kinda hate that all the hype around this game is around the nudity instead of it being an actual game with a story.
What? Since when has the "all the hype" been about the nudity? This is at most a tiny footnote on a hype train that has been running for over three years now, that has had more or less nothing to do with nudity so far.

The hype has been about the supposedly completely fluid and dynamic and open-ended storyline (read: there are 3 or 4 places in the game where you get to make a big decision that will choose one of the different endings, or that might make a character say something different later on and you'll be like "OMG I REMEMBER CHOOSING THAT WOW!"), and of course, the uncanny-valley-conquering, photorealisitic graphics.

SPEAKING OF WHICH! Why has no one posted the new screens?!? They're amazing! You guys won't believe this shit! Yup, the uncanny valley is done for, and we finally have a truly photorealistic game. Check this out, and prepare to have your eyeballs melt. 2010 is the year of the photorealistic videogame:


http://cache-foo-05.gawkerassets.com/gawker/assets/images/9/2009/09/rain20.jpg
http://cache-foo-10.gawkerassets.com/gawker/assets/images/9/2009/09/rain17.jpg
http://cache-foo-10.gawkerassets.com/gawker/assets/images/9/2009/09/rain06.jpg
http://cache-foo-09.gawkerassets.com/gawker/assets/images/9/2009/09/rain15.jpg
http://cache-foo-05.gawkerassets.com/gawker/assets/images/9/2009/09/rain08.jpg
http://cache-foo-03.gawkerassets.com/gawker/assets/images/9/2009/09/rain31.jpg


God bless the Playstation 3 and David Cage, may his reign over adventure games last forever and ever. We give thanks for this, our daily real-time photorealism.

[Malik112099]

It looks amazing, but nothing close to photorealism.

[NamPaehc]

Do you think that this is the first time there have been titties in a videogame or something.

Are you really asking me that? Never know with you... Answer is no. Which I think you know... Just it is you CoffeeEdge, so I guess I have to say it or something. For the public record or something. No, I don't think that this is the first time there has been titties in a videogame or something. :razz:

And if you think a naked female is why I could see someone else having an issue with the game then you missed the point. Then again public record and all haaahaa... Its the interaction/direction that has me pondering. I have no problem with it, but come one, some one else will.

God of War/GTA had its risky stuff off the screen and Mass Effect was just a cutscene. Those were implied to be steps well beyond what is happening here but even those had a few noses wrinkled like a sober shar-pei's sweet snout on a sunny sunday.

Thongsy is right too, lately a lot of attention has been paid to this particular scene. Nice segue though.

And you know the answer to the "question" you "asked". You can't seem to discuss things without getting into personal attacks. You admitted to being sensitive about the whole 'UV' issue, so here is some SPF-9/29, take the uncanny valley talk else where.

Though I don't have much authority so feel free to piss on the wallpaper at your own risk. ;)

[Snake2715]

It looks amazing, but nothing close to photorealism.

Thats my thought..I wont pick apart any of the obvious things here though as I am sure it looks good, not phot realistic however.

I love my laminate floors that look like grass!

The game has a ton or potential so I am really looking forward to it.. the problem is it could have a backlash if its not what everyone is hyped to believe... and given the train its going to be hard to deliver 100%. I wish them luck.

[Vinny]

Actually just watching the video had me feeling unconfortable too. I kinda hate that all the hype around this game is around the nudity instead of it being an actual game with a story.

I simply don't agree with you on that point... I'm pretty sure this game has had plenty of hype since last year, well before there was any indication of nudity.

I'm sure this won't go well though. Of course, if this was in a movie, it would be no big deal but Fox News is going to have a field day with this when they get wind of it.

[SEH]

I simply don't agree with you on that point... I'm pretty sure this game has had plenty of hype since last year, well before there was any indication of nudity.

I'm sure this won't go well though. Of course, if this was in a movie, it would be no big deal but Fox News is going to have a field day with this when they get wind of it.

Yup.

Movie nudity = for adults so no problem
Game nudity = obviously all games are for children so it's an issue

I really hate the way some people believe that like video games are just toys and they're ALL for children. That's the reason why nudity in a game gets put under the microscope and is viewed so harshly. It's 2009 and some still act like it's 1986 and the Nintendo was just released. They don't realize that games have evolved past that.

[depascal22]

This is the first I've ever heard of the nudity. I actually think it's going to be a good part of the story. Yeah, she's getting naked but the dude gets it in the end and not in a good way.

[CoffeeEdge]

It looks amazing, but nothing close to photorealism.

I was actually insinuating that it looks a bit crap.

[fizzywix]

Anyone else think the song in the "For Love" trailer sounds a little too influenced by Lux Aeterna? :P

[Gameboy415]

I actually got to play the game at TGS last weekend so I'll chime in with some info.

I had no idea what to expect going into the game, as I haven't really been following news about it too closely. So I was a bit put off at first because the game felt like a QTE/on-rails movie. BUT, it was an AMAZING QTE/on-rails movie! :lol:

The character is controlled by holding R2 and using the left analog stick to control the direction of his(/her) head and therefore his(/her) direction. There are also several on-screen prompts (which I'll abbreviate as OSP from here onward) that pop-up (several of which are QTE's) which require you to press a button or move the right analog stick in a certain direction.

The demo was completely in Japanese and the booth girl kept nagging me so I couldn't catch EVERYTHING being said/happening, but I got the gist of it.
Spoiler tags, for those who don't want to know anything about the story:


The stage I chose focused on a detective going to investigate a junkyard worker (?) named "Big Jack" (IIRC). Here's a Cliff's Notes run-down of what happened:
-Detective arrives by car, OSP to get out
-Talk to "Big Jack" using branching dialogue
-Equip "X-Ray Sunglasses" and "Sensor glove" (not sure of the real names, but that's how they functioned) via OSP and search around Jack's warehouse for evidence
-The glove could emit some sort of sensor field (by pressing Triangle, IIRC), allowing you to see hidden evidence
-After finding several blood stains, weapons, footprints, etc., the Detective returns to his car to leave
-Jack attacks you
-The entire fight is played out in a series of QTE's. HOWEVER, if you make a mistake, the fight CONTINUES! Unlike older games with QTE's, 1 mistake does not equal failure! The fight continues to flow and progress regardless of your reflexes and it looks damn good.
-Jack knocks you unconscious and screen goes black
-Wake up in your car, handcuffed to the steering wheel
-Jack lifts your car with a crane and begins moving it over a grinder
-Screen cuts into several smaller screens showing your car moving towards the grinder, Jack laughing, and your perspective in the car. Very suspenseful!
-QTE's to kick open the glovebox, get gun to your side of the car, shoot handcuffs off, and jump out of the car before being dumped in the grinder.
-Jack jumps out of STILL-MOVING crane and approaches
-QTE's to throw nearby objects at Jack
-Jack's belt/suspender/overall strap (sorry, don't remember exactly) is caught under the tread of the crane and he is pulled to his death
-Camera pans up to the sky and it begins to rain



The demo did a great job of building suspense and has increased my interest in this game 100-fold!
I really like how failing 1 QTE doesn't stop the action and I'm looking forward to experiencing the full story next Spring! :D

[NamPaehc]

Don't watch it if you don't want potental scene spoilers, but-

I think this is the same video you can get off the JPN PSN now (is it up in the US yet too?) (http://www.eurogamer.pt/videos/heavy-rain-apresentacao-japonesa?size=hd).

Shows off a few scenes from the game. Can't get to the end but says there might be a hint about the release at the end.

[Serpentor]

it's in my amazon goldbox, should i get it?

[knotfan123]

looks like a good game imo

[luan87us]

So if the game doesn't release until 12/2011 I can start saving 1 penny a day now til then and have enough to by the game at that time =D That's great! EH?? ehhhh?

[lordopus99]

Don't watch it if you don't want potental scene spoilers, but-

I think this is the same video you can get off the JPN PSN now (is it up in the US yet too?) (http://www.eurogamer.pt/videos/heavy-rain-apresentacao-japonesa?size=hd).

Shows off a few scenes from the game. Can't get to the end but says there might be a hint about the release at the end.

This link has a video that fully shows two scenes and has him explaining about the game. It also at the end talks about why the hold up about the release date and that they will announce one soon.

http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/200..._release_date/

[klinediscream]

How much is it saying the price is in your gold box, Serpentor? I can't seem to get any games into my GB these days. Maybe I've been buying too much Blu-ray movies. :D

[NamPaehc]

How do ya'll feel about the region editing they mentioned in the presentation? I mean we knew it was bound to happen but I still want every ounce of this I can get without censorship. I hope the US release is handled well at least.

[Riskbreaker23]

How do ya'll feel about the region editing they mentioned in the presentation? I mean we knew it was bound to happen but I still want every ounce of this I can get without censorship. I hope the US release is handled well at least.

im waiting until they finally announce what the regional differences will be before i pre-order. if the NA version is censored, im going to import the EU version.

[Dahk]

im waiting until they finally announce what the regional differences will be before i pre-order. if the NA version is censored, im going to import the EU version.


Sounds like a good idea. I might just do the same.

[NamPaehc]

im waiting until they finally announce what the regional differences will be before i pre-order. if the NA version is censored, im going to import the EU version.

That was the more complete version when Fahrenheit/indigo prophecy came out right? Might be the way to go here again, though should be easier to do this time around.

[NamPaehc]

Added link to the ign blog, looks like they have been updating every Wednesday with different aspects of what they are doing. Might have mentioned it before, but haven't kept up with it till now.

[Scorch]

Can't remember specifics, but I saw on a developer's twitter that he was playing Heavy Rain and enjoying it very much.. this means it might actually make the February release date! So excited.. I've been hyped since the teaser trailer at E3 05 or E3 06..

[Ecofreak]

The game keeps popping up on my Amazon Golden Box -- I'll try to add it to an existing order w/ my ECA code next time it happens.

[NamPaehc]

Saw some potential new info on the release date:

Famitsu is reporting a February 18th release in Japan, which means a North American release date will surely be around the same time, too. Though Sony America hasn't formally announced a date, it's been assumed it'll be in the opening months of 2010. Hopefully, this means we'll also have a February release date to coincide with the Japanese release.

And also to just mention again a demo is/was being worked on.

[MSUHitman]

And also to just mention again a demo is/was being worked on.

Don't know why they just don't release the PAX demo. The scene in the convenience store is about 5-10 minutes in length and is perfect for a demo.

Edit: You can listen to episode 69 of my podcast for my impressions of the game from the PAX demo. I gave it my Game of the Show Award.

[rothgar24]

I liked Indigo Prophecy quite a bit. So, I'm definitely interested in this game. The trailers and the nude scene are a little uncanny valley for me, though.

[xsouthparkx]

I do like nudity in my gameage. Like in that San Andreas game where you had to hack it with Action Replay. The point is, video game sex is just awesome! I would love it if I were featured in a video game porn shoot.
I would be small penis man, tag teaming it up with the giant black snake.

I wonder if they would make us put on those suits they do for other games. They would have to add a sleeve to put your willie in though.

The game could come with an assortment of sex toys, only for the limited edition though. Like how Guitar Hero and Rockband includes the bandkits and whatnot. God I could just keep this going forever.

[NamPaehc]

I liked Indigo Prophecy quite a bit. So, I'm definitely interested in this game. The trailers and the nude scene are a little uncanny valley for me, though.

I hear there is a shower scene too.

A MALE shower scene (http://goonlinegames.net/2009/11/23/update-heavy-rain-features-a-male-shower-scene/), LOL!

Yeah, you read that right. A week ago, we reported a cryptic tweet from Official Playstation Magazine suggesting that there was also a shower scene in Heavy Rain;
“Heavy Rain preview code GET! Whole team gathered around… to watch @bodbod take a shower. :-/ Looks stunning so far. (Not @bodbod)”
Obviously, we assumed it was Madison, who shows all in a strip scene. However, another tweet from OPM, in response to when the public will be able to see the scene, reveals that it’s a male character having a clean;
“Early next year. (It’s a dude in the shower though.)”
The game is out in 2010 for the PS3.

[NamPaehc]

SCEE hasn't made it offical, but European retailers are posting February 26 as the release date over there.

So Feb there and in Japan (all dates still not confirmed by any Sony groups) makes it more likely that is the month we'll get it in the US too.

Also there was good interview with David Cage recently but I forget where I saw it. :cry:

The IGN blog was updated on the 3rd though.

[Ecofreak]

SCEE hasn't made it offical, but European retailers are posting February 26 as the release date over there.

So Feb there and in Japan (all dates still not confirmed by any Sony groups) makes it more likely that is the month we'll get it in the US too.

Also there was good interview with David Cage recently but I forget where I saw it. :cry:

The IGN blog was updated on the 3rd though.

WTF is with all the Q1 AAA title releases from Sony? Save your load, dude!

[Nirron]

WTF is with all the Q1 AAA title releases from Sony? Save your load, dude!

If it's any consolation, it looks like Gran Turismo is aiming for Quarter TWO :-P (source n' such (http://www.destructoid.com/gran-turismo-5-gets-targeted-for-summer-2010-release-157655.phtml))

I'm wondering if Naughty Dog, Insomniac, or Sucker Punch (Sly Cooper Sly Cooper Sly Cooper) have anything planned. Sony's gotta have more for their second half than just The Last Guardian.

I'm pumped for Heavy Rain, but it does seem like Sony just has too many games in such a short span (Heavy Rain, White Knight, God of War) in addition to the awesome multiplats. E3 will probably show a Q3 game or two. I wouldn't be surprised if Insomniac was bringing out Resistance 3.

[Snake2715]

I say drop some crap throughout the year. Dont wait till last quarter.

[whoknows]

WTF is with all the Q1 AAA title releases from Sony? Save your load, dude!

Seriously, too much stuff. My only for sure is Yakuza 3. I want to get this though.

[NamPaehc]

Joystiq has some great coverage on their site.

Looks like they are starting to open up the gates and let out more info leading up the the launch next year.

Here is their preview of the 1st chapter, some slight spoilers! Can the write up HERE (http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/heavy-rain-preview/).

And here is a video interview from a producer. (http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/heavy-rain-producer-confirms-dlc-talks-marketing/) He mentions "more episodes in the months following the launch of the game".

>>>Looks like other sites have added their previews too since I saw joystiq had this last night.

[NamPaehc]

Wow! No reaction to all the new info???

Well then... Will hi-res screens help? (http://translate.googleusercontent.com/translate_c?hl=en&sl=fr&u=http://www.jeuxvideo.com/screenshots/images/00016/00016381_154.htm&prev=/search%3Fq%3Djeux%2Bvideo%26dq%3Djeux%2Bvideo%26hl %3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26hs%3Dd8g&rurl=translate.google.com&twu=1&usg=ALkJrhjAr8eDf7mNqJrKKHX_zkLkL2w7ng) :)

PS: The Male showers scene was confirmed by pics floating around out there.

[Brownjohn]

After reading some of the previews, I'm really excited for this game. I was a little unsure at first, but it is now one of my most anticipated games of 2010, right behind god of war and final fantasy.

[smiggity]

I read a preview where the dude said he was mentally exhausted after playing this. Seems like the most immersive game to come out in a long time

[Ecofreak]

I read a preview where the dude said he was mentally exhausted after playing this. Seems like the most immersive game to come out in a long time

Part of it must do with the dark atmosphere that pervades the game. I can't wait!

[Nirron]

If you haven't pre-ordered the game yet and want it, this (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/12/pre-order-heavy-rain-and-get-the-heavy-rain-chronicles/) might be an incentive. You get the first release of Heavy Rain Chronicles.

A snippet so you don't have to read the whole thing:

What exactly are The Heavy Rain Chronicles? Each Chronicle will offer unique, stand-alone, playable short stories featuring one of Heavy Rain’s main characters, and a storyline taking place either before or after Heavy Rain’s original narrative. Similar to Heavy Rain, each episode will offer a unique journey and different outcomes based on the players’ decisions and actions.

Participating retailers:
Amazon
GameCrazy
GameStop (online and in-store)

[Ecofreak]

If you haven't pre-ordered the game yet and want it, this (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/12/pre-order-heavy-rain-and-get-the-heavy-rain-chronicles/) might be an incentive. You get the first release of Heavy Rain Chronicles.

Participating retailers:
Amazon
GameCrazy
GameStop (online and in-store)

Sweet -- glad I pre-ordered from Amazon.

[NamPaehc]

Nice.

I knew DLC was coming from that last interview I posted. Just wondering how much content there will be in each one.

>>>Oh the EU limited version is coming with a DL code for this too. (http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2009/12/18/introducing-heavy-rain-chronicles-the-special-edition-box/)

Doubting we'll see a collector's version in the US too


But cool as that is, that’s not all. The Collector’s Edition also contains a voucher to download the following additional content from the PlayStation Store:


Heavy Rain: Chronicle 1 – The Taxidermist – Experience Madison’s dangerous investigation in full, before it’s available on the PlayStation Store
The Heavy Rain Official Soundtrack – Recorded at the legendary Abbey Road studios, and filled with the powerful orchestral themes that form a key part of the experience of playing Heavy Rain
Dynamic XMB theme – Lend a little Heavy Rain ambience to your XMB

[Nirron]

They better give us that dynamic theme. I really want to get one to see, but I refuse to pay $3 or however much for it.

[NamPaehc]

Well depending on what content does or doesn't get cut, I might end up with the EU collector's version anyway.

I HATE the prices for themes too.

[camoor]

Is there an option to turn off the simon-says minigame?

Because that ruined Indigo Prophecy for me.

[jrsmaster411]

Have they announced if any versions will be censored yet? It's the only thing keeping me from pre ordering.

[Snake2715]

cant wait for this one.

[NamPaehc]

Have they announced if any versions will be censored yet? It's the only thing keeping me from pre ordering.

Negative. Not yet...

[Ecofreak]

Have they announced if any versions will be censored yet? It's the only thing keeping me from pre ordering.

According to a recent Kotaku article (http://kotaku.com/5428182/no-need-to-import-heavy-rain-in-america), the game will not be censored (follow link for full article).

De Fondaumiere didn't give me the impression that Quantic Dream had backed off. He said that much has changed in the four years since the release of Fahrenheit. More adult content has made it into games and more of it — not all — has been handled with class. The seriousness with which Quantic Dream wants to include the equivalent of R-rated movie material in a video game sold in America is now more permissible, the developer noted.

As a result, North American fans of the idea of playing a game the way a developer intended it to be played won't have to worry about importing in order to play the "real" Heavy Rain. It's coming to America, with no censorship attached.

[xxDOYLExx]

Negative. Not yet...

I would put money on the guess that the reason we dont have a US release date is because of this issue.

I'll bet the ESRB wants to give this an AO rating and sony is working it out with them to bring it down to a M. You wont read about it in the news because a censord version will kill US sales.

[J7.]

Preordering for Episode 1 is kind of pointless since Episodes 1&2 will be sold together right?

[Nirron]

From what I read on the PS Blog and elsewhere, it sounded like the episodes might be released simultaneously or close together, but separately, as it sounded like each episode was going to be $4.99. Maybe they'll do a $9 pack for the both of them, but they made it sound like they were going to sell them separately.

[Serpentor]

Just got an e-mail from Amazon...

We now have delivery date(s) for the order you placed on XXXXX

"Heavy Rain"
Estimated arrival date: January 12 2012 - January 18 2012

[espy605]

Just got an e-mail from Amazon...

We now have delivery date(s) for the order you placed on XXXXX

"Heavy Rain"
Estimated arrival date: January 12 2012 - January 18 2012

Pushed back for the PS4!

[MSUHitman]

I would put money on the guess that the reason we dont have a US release date is because of this issue.

I'll bet the ESRB wants to give this an AO rating and sony is working it out with them to bring it down to a M. You wont read about it in the news because a censord version will kill US sales.

The minute I find out the US version is censored is the same minute I order the CE from Europe since it's region free.

Also did anyone get their GS preorder code yet? I've had Heavy Rain reserved since early Dec. and the PlayStation Blog said the preorder program started on the 18th, but my Gamestop has been so busy they can't find the codes.

[Coper3000]

WOW! 2012 for this? I'll be even older and grayer.

[J7.]

From what I read on the PS Blog and elsewhere, it sounded like the episodes might be released simultaneously or close together, but separately, as it sounded like each episode was going to be $4.99. Maybe they'll do a $9 pack for the both of them, but they made it sound like they were going to sell them separately.

Whatever I read was wrong then. I think I'll still wait until I can get this cheaper even with buying the 2 episodes separately.

[Serpentor]

The minute I find out the US version is censored is the same minute I order the CE from Europe since it's region free.

Also did anyone get their GS preorder code yet? I've had Heavy Rain reserved since early Dec. and the PlayStation Blog said the preorder program started on the 18th, but my Gamestop has been so busy they can't find the codes.

I agree with you... censoring contents suck, but buying the CE from Europe will not help you on additional DLCs. The game itself could be region free, but not the DLCs. Unless the DLCs don't need the game disc to work, otherwise you have to buy European DLCs :(

I pre-ordered from Amazon for $48.73 (gold box and ECA, when it was alive back then).

[NamPaehc]

I agree with you... censoring contents suck, but buying the CE from Europe will not help you on additional DLCs. The game itself could be region free, but not the DLCs. Unless the DLCs don't need the game disc to work, otherwise you have to buy European DLCs :(

I pre-ordered from Amazon for $48.73 (gold box and ECA, when it was alive back then).

That is the only thing that might stop someone from importing. Just like any other game... Just having a "complete experience" is actually important enough for some to not worry about that. If push comes to show there is always a way to figure out how to grab the downloadable content.

European game officially has NO CUTS and a sturdy rating thanks to the British Board of Film Classification (http://www.thelostgamer.com/2010/01/05/heavy-rain-receives-15-rating-from-bbfc/) now.

Come on ESRB... If this only got a 15 over there, it should be okay here, right?? hah. >>>wow keeps cutting last part. I think the PEGI rating is higher though for rest of europe, think at least 18 but can't find link.

[FoxHoundADAM]

Still no realease date for this huh? From all the previes it sounds like the game is just abuot done.

[Serpentor]

That is the only thing that might stop someone from importing. Just like any other game... Just having a "complete experience" is actually important enough for some to not worry about that. If push comes to show there is always a way to figure out how to grab the downloadable content.

European game officially has NO CUTS and a sturdy rating thanks to the British Board of Film Classification (http://www.thelostgamer.com/2010/01/05/heavy-rain-receives-15-rating-from-bbfc/) now.

Come on ESRB... If this only got a 15 over there, it should be okay here, right?? hah. >>>wow keeps cutting last part. I think the PEGI rating is higher though for rest of europe, think at least 18 but can't find link.

I haven't read everything about the game up-to-date. The censoring you mentioned, is it really a cut or a replacement? Personally, i don't mind if the woman is wearing bra vs. naked, but if the scene is removed, that's a different story... Also, dropping f-bombs in the dialogue is fine with me too. They might take the personality away from certain characters, but i don't have a problem with that. It's sort of watching watered down version of Sopranos, but it doesn't really bother me. Are there examples of what's being censored? Thanks in advance.

[Scorch]

holy..

SONY CONFIRMED FEBRUARY 23RD RELEASE DATE! YAAAAAAY!!! I'm so excited that this isn't getting pushed back!!!!

http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/heavy-rain-release-date-february-23-in-north-america/

[nbballard]

The piece on this in QORE was REALLY impressive. This game went from being an "on my radar, but not really interested" to a day one pre-order purchase.

[sotc1988]

I think one of those $5 dlc episodes should be turned into a demo. I liked Indigo Prophecy but I'm not sure whether I want to buy this right away.

[Dahk]

Awesome! Amazon needs to fix their release date now :)

[Scorch]

Awesome! Amazon needs to fix their release date now :)

Amazon had the 2/23 date listed when I made my post..

[johnnyrocker360]

just pre-ordered my copy. can't wait. febuary is going to be a pretty sweet month for games. Dante's Inferno, Bioshock 2, and now heavy rain. my wallet is already hurting. :-(

[NamPaehc]

I haven't read everything about the game up-to-date. The censoring you mentioned, is it really a cut or a replacement? Personally, i don't mind if the woman is wearing bra vs. naked, but if the scene is removed, that's a different story... Also, dropping f-bombs in the dialogue is fine with me too. They might take the personality away from certain characters, but i don't have a problem with that. It's sort of watching watered down version of Sopranos, but it doesn't really bother me. Are there examples of what's being censored? Thanks in advance.

Well there hasn't been any censoring or cut of scenes in any way in the territories I mentioned.

Not sure what'll happen in the US, but this was posted on the PS blog in response to US censorship.

It won’t! Quantic Dream did a fantastic job of maintaining the game’s integrity across all our territories.

Nothing concrete but looks to me that they might have tweaked certain things for the different regions. Which is to be expected... but how much was changed or left out (if anything at all), who knows...

That is all I need to know to finally bite and get my order in on which version I'm interested in.

[Serpentor]

Just got an e-mail from Amazon...


Hello from Amazon.com (http://amazon.com/).

We are writing about the order you placed on xxxx. The item(s) listed below will actually ship sooner than we originally expected:

"Heavy Rain"
Previous estimated arrival date: January 12 2012 - January 18 2012
New estimated arrival date: March 08 2010 - March 12 2010

[jrsmaster411]

Hi folks!
Some of you surfing around (http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-6894-Video-Game-News-Examiner%7Ey2010m1d11-Amazon-reveals-Heavy-Rain-US-box-art) yesterday might have stumbled upon what might be the US packfront. We just wanted to drop a note to everyone confirming that the below, is indeed, the US packfront for Heavy Rain (http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/Games/Heavy_Rain):
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2701/4268197268_f0cc2f4316.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/playstationblog/4268197268/)
We’re also able to confirm Heavy Rain (http://www.quanticdream.com/#rain)’s final ESRB (http://www.esrb.org/index-js.jsp) rating has come in at a strong M for Blood, Intense Violence, Nudity, Sexual Content, Strong Language and Use of Drugs. And for those of you who have asked, the content is exactly the same as what’s being released in all our territories, so you’ll get to enjoy it exactly as Quantic Dream (http://www.quanticdream.com/#rain) intended.
We’ll have much more in the coming days as we get closer to launch, so keep an eye out on the Blog for more information on one of PlayStation’s hottest titles of 2010!


http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/01/introducing-the-official-heavy-rain-box-art/

No need to import

[NamPaehc]

Wait. What... did the US just get the best box art for once??

[jrsmaster411]

Wait. What... did the US just get the best box art for once??
According to the comments on the PSblog, No. I like it though

[Dahk]

This game cant come soon enough. It looks amazing.

[Serpentor]

http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/01/introducing-the-official-heavy-rain-box-art/

No need to import


Awesome, thanks for the news.

[NamPaehc]

According to the comments on the PSblog, No. I like it though


I noticed that too lol. The plain version they have in the EU might look good in the collector's version. Has some kind of rain effect on the slip cover, but the normal cover is to basic for me.

[Snake2715]

Oh hell yeah. On the pre order list and paid for.

[smiggity]

1050 endings???? Holy shit if true

[FoxHoundADAM]

FYI if you prefer the European box art the Sony blog has said they will release a high res PDF of it for you to print off should you so wish.

[NamPaehc]

FYI if you prefer the European box art the Sony blog has said they will release a high res PDF of it for you to print off should you so wish.

Which I guess is cool of them, since I don't think they do that for all games.

There is a nice, one page preview in Gameinformer #202.

A few portions:

Simultaneously intriguing and depressing...

Those who enjoyed the large variety of these activities in games like Shenmue are sure to have a great time exploring the different actions our character can perform.

For those who love the idea of interacting with a well-written and intriguing murder mystery, Heavy Rain looks to be in a league of its own in terms of presentation and atmosphere.

[Danimal]

With so many highly anticipated games coming out in the early part of this year, I have to make some tough choices about which ones I have to get on Day 1, and which ones I'm willing to wait for a deal on. This is one game I will not even consider waiting for. The only reason I haven't preordered it from Amazon already is I'm not sure if they're guaranteeing release date delivery for this game. I've still got about $23 left on a Best Buy gc I got for Christmas; maybe I'll just pick it up there.

[jrsmaster411]

The official site is up
http://heavyrainps3.com/
You can register for something called "Four Days Challenge". I'm confused about what exactly it is but your supposed to get a free home t-shirt by registering which "will soon provide you with some 'exclusive access'..." This whole site is a mystery.

[Apollo Creed]

I've been looking forward to this one for quite some time.
February cannot come soon enough.

[Nirron]

I did the registration thing and (after waiting a LONG time for the page to load once I hit accept) saw nothing but a 'Thanks for registering!' message with the option to return to the home page. I'm unsure if I'm doing something wrong, but it doesn't look like there are any immediately redeemable offers.

[JMEPO]

I'm super pumped for this game. I love the idea of not having to redo levels ever and just being able to enjoy a great story. February can't come soon enough :bomb:

[bluedotlounge]

If any friendly S.F. Bay Area CAGers want to check out the 11-Chapter preview the next two weeks, I'm having friends over to play it the next two Sundays. This was the same preview disc I wrote about on Dec 14: http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-13269-Gaming-Lifestyle-Examiner~y2009m12d14-Heavy-Rain-extensive-handson-preview

[NamPaehc]

I did the registration thing and (after waiting a LONG time for the page to load once I hit accept) saw nothing but a 'Thanks for registering!' message with the option to return to the home page. I'm unsure if I'm doing something wrong, but it doesn't look like there are any immediately redeemable offers.


Think it all starts up on the 26th.

>>> (http://heavyrainps3.com/news/article/19)Let yourself be drawn deep into the world of Heavy Rain with 'Four Days' (http://www.heavyrainps3.com/en_GB/experience) - a three-week online mystery beginning Tuesday 26th January.

[Supplice]

Reviewed by Editor-in-chief, Tim Clark, it was his opening sentence that easily confirmed to me that this was another overtly ambitious title that wasn’t going to fall anywhere short of the high expectation surrounding it; “Having played and replayed Heavy Rain, I’m convinced it’s one of the freshest, most exciting, and even important games on PS3 so far,” before going on to state that “[he is]also convinced that a lot of people are going to hate it. Or simply be baffled by the fact that you spend quite a bit of time sitting around being sad.”


There is also plenty of praise for the control scheme, in which “Every action you perform in the game requires a corresponding button press, stick movement, or Sixaxis shake, from a simple tap of up [on the control stick] to swig juice from the fridge, to a sudden jerk down on the pad to kick a door in, or carefully rotating the right stick to apply a bandage.”

Such use continus to diversify as the controls actively represent the difficulty of what the character is trying to achieve; “If it’s something phyiscally demanding – say, trying to clamber up a muddy hillside – you might have to hold serveral buttons at once, effectively playing finger Twister.” Alongside this, other sections will task you with performing actions as you race against the clock to get out of a situation. The developer’s interactive design ideas are to be commended, with Clark concluding “What shouldn’t be understated is how inventive Quantic Dream has been with the controls.”


The story’s pacing is also key and is perfectly designed to create an “exhausting, exhilarating, and, curcially, involving” experience. Player’s will also encounter “innovative twists on its core forumula right until the credits roll,” and the review continues to describe various elements and encounters within the title.


In conclusion, Clark writes “Certainly there’s nothing quite like it on PS3, or indeed any other system. Put gaming conventions aside, go in with no expectations other than this is something new and massively good-looking, and you’ll be rewarded with a unique experience that lurches between genius and madness, manages to be genuinely emotional, and that you’ll be bursting to talk about with your friends.”


The title is awarded a coveted Gold Star, and an incredibly respectable 9/10.

Sauce 1 (http://www.thelostgamer.com/2010/01/18/world-exclusive-heavy-rain-review-awards-910/)
Sauce 2 (http://goonlinegames.net/2010/01/18/first-heavy-rain-review-is-in/) (has a mini-scan of the score)

[FoxHoundADAM]

So is the Amazon pre-order deal with the free extra DLC chapter pretty much the only deal for this game right now?

[NamPaehc]

So is the Amazon pre-order deal with the free extra DLC chapter pretty much the only deal for this game right now?

Yeah, but the free DLC is for those who pre-order. So you can get it else where (like gamestop), not just Amazon.

[Serpentor]

Oh yes, there's a free DLC chapter one, Taxidermist if you pre-order from Amazon. SWEET!

[NamPaehc]

Oh yes, there's a free DLC chapter one, Taxidermist if you pre-order from Amazon. SWEET!

The wording is a little misleading on their site, the content is not exclusive to Amazon. You can get it by pre-ordering at the other retailers also. So don't feel like you are locked to Amazon if you want the 1st "prequel" story for free.

9/10 at OPM, like mentioned before. Course it is a PS mag... The have some portions of it here though. (http://www.gamesradar.com/f/why-heavy-rain-is-a-910-game/a-20100119115659431013)

http://static.gamesradar.com/images/mb/GamesRadar/us/Other/OPM%20Pod/OPM41_cover--article_image.jpg


Also a new bundle was reveailed for France (Quantic Dream's HQ).

A new PS3 bundle has been unveiled for France, a Heavy Rain bundle will be released on February 24. The PlayStation 3 bundle will include a 250 GB PS3 Slim and a standard Heavy Rain copy, all for 349 Euros ($498/£304). Check out the bundle below:

http://playstationlifestyle.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Heavy-Rain-Ps3-bundle.jpg (http://playstationlifestyle.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Heavy-Rain-Ps3-bundle.jpg)

[MasterSun1]

As long as this game doesn't go all Dragonball Z on us like Fahrenheit (Indigo Prophecy) did, I'll be happy.

[NamPaehc]

Japanese box art, are we feeling better about the US one now? LOL.

http://image3.examiner.com/images/blog/EXID6894/slideshows/100120040945Heavy_Rain_Japanese_box_art.jpg

[NamPaehc]

WOW! people around the net actually like box going to Japan BETTER? Its to creepy for me lol...

Anyway some details on the DLC:

Heavy Rain has you taking control of a number of playable characters. However, the game will only put you in the shoes of the heroes tracking down the elusive "Origami Killer." In an interview with French site gameblog.fr, game director David Cage revealed that players will be able to play as the villain in an upcoming DLC episode of the Heavy Rain Chronicles.

Other episodes of the Heavy Rain Chronicles will serve as prequels to the main game. For example, the already-revealed taxidermist scene will explain why Madison Paige is an insomniac. Additional episodes will focus on the other characters in the game, with another revealing how Norman Jayden became addicted to drugs.

The taxidermist episode will be about an hour long, and it's likely all future episodes will be as well. Cage didn't go into details on when the episodes will be delivered or how they will be priced. Depending on the success of these episodes, Quantic Dream may want to pursue even more prequel stories, considering a sequel simply doesn't seem likely.

I thought pricing was set at $4.99 an episode, will check into that. But for 1 hour of gamepay, I'm not sure I'll bite past the first one (which is FREE with pre-ordering =D ). What do ya'll think??

[FoxHoundADAM]

This game is looking awesome. Hope it can pull it off. The hype is starting to get pretty big now.

[smiggity]

Japan boxart is awesome. This is my most anticipated title of 2010...I hope it comes through

[Paco]

Japan Boxart is almost as amusing as this in its sheer troll capability

http://homepages.nildram.co.uk/%7Eadamesat/Stuff/jack/moeeee.gif

[Serpentor]

It's disturbing, but it doesn't give away anything, except rain and water (or a dead body).

[SEH]

I thought pricing was set at $4.99 an episode, will check into that. But for 1 hour of gamepay, I'm not sure I'll bite past the first one (which is FREE with pre-ordering =D ). What do ya'll think??

I'll probably pick them up if they're $4.99 a piece. However, I'll wait initially in hopes that they announce some form of a bundle, preferably at a discounted rate.

[NamPaehc]

EU blog:

Heavy Rain demo should be on the store on the 11th of Feb http://blog.eu.playstation.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif

[J7.]

Japanese box art, are we feeling better about the US one now? LOL.

http://image3.examiner.com/images/blog/EXID6894/slideshows/100120040945Heavy_Rain_Japanese_box_art.jpg

Could care less about what's on the cover that will be sitting on a shelf where I will never see it!

[CoffeeEdge]

What are you people talking about. The Japanese boxart is the least awful one, by far.

I still don't give a shit about this, the world's biggest QTE. Damned non-games.

[whoknows]

I like the U.S. box art, I'm pretty happy we have it over the JP one.

[Serpentor]

Could care less about what's on the cover that will be sitting on a shelf where I will never see it!

Not if you have friends borrowing it :)

I think the Japanese box art is pretty cool, hey, it's disturbing... Can anyone translate the Japanese words/characters on the box? Is it really Heavy Rain? I can only recognize one word/character, heart (played enough JRPG to know that by now), which has nothing to do with Heavy or Rain.

[Nirron]

Looks like they're starting the first of three Four Day challenges today. Got an e-mail about it today linking to http://www.heavyrainps3.com/rainisfalling.

Apparently today is simply 'observation.' For anyone not really wanting to put the pieces together via the site - it's an anagram for a twitter account, @perfectfolds (http://twitter.com/perfectfolds).

I have to admit that this is a pretty neat little promotion. Perhaps it's because of my minimalist nature in a lot of things, but I much prefer stuff like this (little contests, not necessarily the venue used) to something like plastering your game all over some limited theme Mountain Dew :-P

[FoxHoundADAM]

Looks like they're starting the first of three Four Day challenges today. Got an e-mail about it today linking to http://www.heavyrainps3.com/rainisfalling.

Apparently today is simply 'observation.' For anyone not really wanting to put the pieces together via the site - it's an anagram for a twitter account, @perfectfolds (http://twitter.com/perfectfolds).

I have to admit that this is a pretty neat little promotion. Perhaps it's because of my minimalist nature in a lot of things, but I much prefer stuff like this to something like plastering your game all over some limited theme Mountain Dew :-P
F! twitter promotions/cotests!

[Serpentor]

I got this...

@FDOCSTE EPRLF

i hope the game is not like that...

[Nirron]

I don't think it's indicative of the final game at all. It makes sense to me in the context of a tiny taste to get people's detective abilities going for the real game. It's the kind of synergy that makes me enjoy Prof. Layton (puzzles + mystery = win)

Also, regarding the resulting unscrambling...Is anyone else getting a Rorschach vibe from that Twitter feed? I normally despise stuff like Facebook/Twitter, but it's that abrupt and observant style that really reminds me of Rorschach's journal entries.

[Serpentor]

Is that the creepy mask dude from Watchmen? I happen to like him :)

I don't do Twitter, so not sure what you mean...

[chakan]

I got this...

@FDOCSTE EPRLF

i hope the game is not like that...

You need to unscramble the anagram...

[Nirron]

Yeah that's him Serpentor. That might be why I'm drawn to it, and I wouldn't really be surprised if he wasn't an inspiration for it. The Twitter thing was really just a jab at how most people use these social things for the most mundane stuff, perhaps best explained with this Penny Arcade comic (http://www.penny-arcade.com/comic/2008/4/23/) (to be on the safe side, probably NSFW)

[Jodou]

Man, I was watching the first nine minutes that was leaked the other day and it reminds me a lot of Shenmue. However, I hope they didn't go overboard with what you can do in this game because you're able to do trivial things like shave, shower, take a piss, eat, play with toy cars, etc. I mean, I don't like having to waste time doing certain things IRL, so why the hell would I want to in a game lol. I think half the appeal of Shenmue was that the setting is Japan, so in a sense it had a lot to explore culturally. Something more familiar as a US suburban town might take a lot out of the experience, but I'm willing to give games like this a chance.

The one thing that does bother me is the animations look extremely rigid and half the time characters are expressionless or look like they were done by the idiots of garry's mod. I really hope this doesn't turn into an episode of playing with Ken and Barbie dolls lol.

NSFW video due to language:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fh8VfFH78jY

[J7.]

VGChartz preorder #'s are low (<50,000) & Pachter has said he doesn't think this will even break even. I really wish people would get a clue and buy this game. Not only will it be one of the best game experiences but it represents what we need the industry to move towards. Tell people you know to buy this game if there's any chance you think they might enjoy it.

[Jodou]

VGChartz preorder #'s are low (<50,000) & Pachter has said he doesn't think this will even break even. I really wish people would get a clue and buy this game. Not only will it be one of the best game experiences but it represents what we need the industry to move towards. Tell people you know to buy this game if there's any chance you think they might enjoy it.
To be fair, most people will hate the 'game' if they did. I'm even doubtful I'll truly enjoy it, but I give every new IP a fair shake if it interests me. Heavy Rain will most likely be today's Shenmue, but it will be hard pressed to break new ground this day and age.

It will either be a sleeper hit or fail hard.

[Snake2715]

I think it will do alright sales wise. Pre orders dont mean a lot. Most people are waiting until the last week to preorder now to see who has the best pre order deal. I know I am, and I just have not had a chance to go preorder yet.

Too bad estarland is not getting any preorder bonuses.

[SEH]

Yeah, I wouldn't take much stock in the pre-order numbers. I very rarely pre-order games, and if I do, I do what Snake mentioned, wait until the last week to see who has the better bonus.

I don't think their sales will be gigantic, but it should do okay.

[Chuplayer]

Something more familiar as a US suburban town might take a lot out of the experience, but I'm willing to give games like this a chance.

I've been waiting for a game with a setting like that my entire life.

[J7.]

Preorders are indicative of total sales though. Look at ME 2, GoW 3, etc. Much higher and much higher overall sales, despite not being gangbusters themselves. Maybe they'll make some decent cash on the DLC though. I was going to wait till this got cheaper, but it's one of my few brand new release purchases of the entire year because these types of games need to be supported.

[Thongsy]

VGChartz preorder #'s are low (<50,000) & Pachter has said he doesn't think this will even break even. I really wish people would get a clue and buy this game. Not only will it be one of the best game experiences but it represents what we need the industry to move towards. Tell people you know to buy this game if there's any chance you think they might enjoy it.

Eh, I had it preordered and so did a friend, but we both cancelled it. I was interested but after playing Indigo Prophecy and seeing that Qore video I think I'll take a pass. While it seems an interesting concept, after watching all the videos it just seems much more like an interactive movie than a game. I really do hope the game does really well though, just so every game doesn't turn into some kind of action/shooter type game and this is trying something new and interesting. I really wish they would already release a demo so I can get a better feel for it and possibly change my mind on it.

[Thomas96]

I might buy it... I'm not sure.... the previews that I saw were exciting. I might just wait for the price to drop before I pick it up. I will pick it up, just a matter of when.

[J7.]

Eh, I had it preordered and so did a friend, but we both cancelled it. I was interested but after playing Indigo Prophecy and seeing that Qore video I think I'll take a pass. While it seems an interesting concept, after watching all the videos it just seems much more like an interactive movie than a game. I really do hope the game does really well though, just so every game doesn't turn into some kind of action/shooter type game and this is trying something new and interesting. I really wish they would already release a demo so I can get a better feel for it and possibly change my mind on it.

A demo is coming FEB 11th. New trailer! http://www.gametrailers.com/user-movie/heavy-rain-gameplay-trailer/338745

[menikmati]

A demo is coming FEB 11th. New trailer! http://www.gametrailers.com/user-movie/heavy-rain-gameplay-trailer/338745

Definitely will check the demo out.

[whoknows]

Any word on if you can turn off motion controls?

[Malik112099]

I am interested in this but will def wait for a demo and the release to see how everyone else likes it. Metacritic has 2 reviews up already which are good but the wording is like "expect nothing and you'll like it." As it sits riight now I will still be playing Mass Effect 2 when this hits shelves.

[Jodou]

Any word on if you can turn off motion controls?
From the first nine minutes I was watching, you use the sixaxis 'shaking' motion. . .a lot. I think this more than anything else will annoy the shit out of me, so here's hoping you can turn it off for something else.

I'd hate to think Heavy Rain is just a glorified Wii game with pretty graphics.

[dallow]

VGChartz preorder #'s are low (<50,000) & Pachter has said he doesn't think this will even break even. I really wish people would get a clue and buy this game. Not only will it be one of the best game experiences but it represents what we need the industry to move towards. Tell people you know to buy this game if there's any chance you think they might enjoy it.
Don't ever believe vgchartz, every number on their entire website is factually incorrect.
I can't believe they even have the gall to quote pre-order numbers.

[smiggity]

The invvestment in new technologies alone makes this a Day 1 purchase, especially since all CAGs are always talking about "support the developer" and all that garbage. I could care less about supporting a developer but I do want to encourage Sony or whoever to take more chances

[bjstucker]

Anyone have word on when the pre-order chapter will be released other than Feb.

[bluedotlounge]

My media box came in with the review copy. Expect to see a ton of reviews on Feb 10th.

http://img4.imageshack.us/i/dsc01663c.jpg/

The box talks to you when you open it.

http://img697.imageshack.us/i/dsc01665r.jpg/

[Dahk]

This is a day one purchase for me as well. The story seems amazing and I have GS credit to burn :)

[smiggity]

My media box came in with the review copy. Expect to see a ton of reviews on Feb 10th.

http://img4.imageshack.us/i/dsc01663c.jpg/

The box talks to you when you open it.

http://img697.imageshack.us/i/dsc01665r.jpg/

That looks really really sweet

[dallow]

What does it say?

Sell it to me when you're done. Seriously.
If you're allowed to, if so, PM please. ;)

---

Pre-ordered the CE from HMV in the UK.

[J7.]

From the first nine minutes I was watching, you use the sixaxis 'shaking' motion. . .a lot. I think this more than anything else will annoy the shit out of me, so here's hoping you can turn it off for something else.

I'd hate to think Heavy Rain is just a glorified Wii game with pretty graphics.
The story alone makes that impossible. ;)

Don't ever believe vgchartz, every number on their entire website is factually incorrect.
I can't believe they even have the gall to quote pre-order numbers.

I do take them with a grain of salt. They give ballpark #'s and they aren't good signs.

My media box came in with the review copy. Expect to see a ton of reviews on Feb 10th.

http://img4.imageshack.us/i/dsc01663c.jpg/

The box talks to you when you open it.

http://img697.imageshack.us/i/dsc01665r.jpg/

It's too bad it's not the sound of rain. A nice CE would've been a little clock that makes the sound of heavy rain.

[Saint Noir]

I have gotten very interested in this game all a sudden. I hope it turns out to be worth it... I will probably be preodering soon... or maybe the day reviews go live.

[smiggity]

The new trailer is sick and should have a bit more mass appeal. Its on the PS Blog for those interested

[Saint Noir]

The new trailer is sick and should have a bit more mass appeal. Its on the PS Blog for those interested

Yeah, that trailer made me go from probably not... to a definite maybe.... :lol: