An emotional investment
Majority of interaction within the game occurs primarily via Quick Time Events or QTE's. Sure, the player can walk around and intereact with the environment via analog stick prompts, but make no mistake that QTE's is the meat of actual gameplay found here. Fortunately it's not distracting and feels appropriate primarily due to the solid story and atmosphere of the game.
The story involves multiple characters who are hunting the Origami Killer who kidnaps little boys and drowns them. When the bodies are discovered, there's always an origami figure in their hand and an orchid on their chest.
You control 4 different characters through the game as you search for clues to the identity of the killer and attempt to stop the death of the most recent boy that's kidnapped.
There are some awkward moments, like a "sex" scene in a motel that can be triggered between two of the characters as well as some frustrating parts where a player might feel that they're not even in control. Fortunately they're few and far between.
Graphically, the game looks decent but will not blow anyone's mind, there are better looking games out there.
For someone who's looking for a solid mystery/adventure game, Heavy Rain delivers. With a story that will get most players emotionally invested, this is a must play game for any PS3 owner.