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PieGuy's Spoiler Free Taxidermist Review

Published May 3, 2011
4 out of 5 starsScore: 80/100

Here is my SPOILER FREE review of the first (and only) episode of the Heavy Rain Chronicles. The planned DLC was scrapped it seems in favour of Move technology. The 'Taxid ermist' is about Madison Paige on a journalistic outing to scope out a man she suspects may be the Origami Killer.

It plays much like one of the longer chapters within Heavy Rain. I have to say that the length is disappointing considering its price tag. For me the DLC took me approx 20 minutes and that was with me taking my time and meticulous exploring. Despite this misgiving, on the whole the DLC is very intense and an enjoyable experience.

Why not chill out in a strangers house?

The 'Taxidermist' despite its length manages to include the same tense situations you find your

self in during Heavy Rain (think the doctor death segment). At several points it had me genuinely freaking out; more so than at any point in the main game. Something that may be jarring is the voice of Madison. You will notice that the voice work is different than the one in the main game however you will soon become accustomed to it. Also the thought system is different, I suppose as this was created as an E3 showcase it is in an early stage but I found that it is an improvement. Instead of thoughts floating around to hold your hand used in the main game the thought system in the 'Taxidermist' differs in that it is more contextual. An example of this is in the corridor she will comment on the decor of it but walk into the bedroom and thoughts specific to the location will appear.

I feel it would have been better if after downloading the 'Taxidermist' it would appear in the main game's plot because it would make sense but instead you have to go to extras. The DLC does include some bonuses such as a cringe inducing voice actor video (I believe it is the audition of Lauren) and some concept art.

Overall the DLC is of high quality although not really deserving of its price tag. Replay ability is limited however there is always the

A metaphor for the fans left out in the cold in regards to the cancelled DLC chronicles?

lure of seeing each of the multiple endings. If you were expecting an epilogue movie, such as the ones featuring in the main game, then you may be disappointed as the DLC ends with a newspaper article.

If you are a fan of Heavy Rain then this is a must buy just so you can get a few more minutes of glorious drama. If not then I would pass.

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