Mini Review: The Heavy Rain Chronicles: The Taxidermist

You could do one of those options. Or you could ponder about all the other leads that Madison checked out before following the real Orgami Killer. Much like the story of the creepy doctor in the main game story. Only this time it is about some strange hobbiest Taxidermist that could be another big break in Madison's never ending search for the big story. How did it all go? Let me tell you.

This DLC plays out just like a chapter from Heavy Rain, only that it is a chapter with three distinct parts. So picture if you didn't have to load inbetween three of the chapters of Heavy Rain and got to play the same character through each as well. Something that is an improvement over the main game in my book. No loading between these chapters, so no break in the story to show you some floating head. But that is mainly due to the fact that this little extra is just that, little.

The Heavy Rain Chronicles: The Taxidermist

You can play through one of the five versions of the story in around 15 minutes. Then just like in the full game, reload from one of the three "checkpoints" to change the outcome. Something that adds only a few more minutes per outcome to the overall gameplay. Maybe up to 30 minutes of extra contexual button presses for the entire story of The Taxidermist. Not much time, but what it really does come down to is the scenery and tension created.

I do have to say that if for anything, get this DLC for the tense story that you get to walk Madison through. Much like how Brian said in his review, this story and action left a lasting impression much like seeing a film. In this case, the most intense, heart-pounding film you have ever scene. Quite litterally for myself here too. I actually had to walk away and take a break because of the tension and "fear" I brought upon myself when playing. Like I said, literally heart-pounding.

The Heavy Rain Chronicles: The Taxidermist

At first glance the $4.99 price point for those that did not pre-order Heavy Rain might seem a little steep, especially for maybe another 30 minutes of playtime, but if you enjoyed Heavy Rain it is well worth the price. While I wish it could have been a bit longer and have a way of showing people online the choices you made, trophies, I thoughly enjoyed the little extra. Partially because I really liked Madison as a character and partially because I love seeing developers expand on their main stories. If you love story, give this DLC a look.

The Heavy Rain Chronicles: The Taxidermist was developed by Quantic Dream published by Sony Computer Entertainment of America for the PlayStation 3 on April 1st. Requires a copy of Heavy Rain. The Taxidermist retails for about $4.99 USD on the PlayStation Network. A code for the DLC was given to us by the publisher for reviewing purposes. I played through the new content in about 15 minutes, the first time. I played through and unlocked four of the five different endings after.