Experiences in Max Payne 3

Experiences in Max Payne 3


I do not remember the first two Max Payne Games Series, but number three is a gaming experience not to miss.  Max Payne 3 has a very strong and solidly built storyline.  Although fun, the cutscenes interject  often.  That is ok in my opinion.  Why?  Cutscenes replace those boring loading screens where we twiddle our thumbs while waiting for the next playable action sequence.  The cutscenes in Max Payne 3 actually add value and help move the story along. So, you get a minute to rest in between intense action sequence without losing the flow of the story. Some gamers will appreciate this while the mindless-non-stop games may not.


Storyline: The storyline is entertaining and intriguing with a solidly thought out plot.

Game Mechanics: If you've played modern first person shooters, then Max Payne 3 delivers intuitive controls with a nominal learning curve.  Some of the controls are a bit weird, but the keyboard keys can be modified or remapped.  Note that a bullet time effect is present.  Instead of jumping there is a slow motion dive.  It is possible to aim and shoot while in slow motion... very cool.  You can also make some other slow motion moves.  For example, melee beating enemies and shooting them in the face in slow motion is extremely satisfying.

Weapons and Equipment: Max Payne 3 contains many weapons to use.  Dual wielding certain pistols and submachine guns is certainly fun.  The game also allows you to pick up and use enemy weapons.  In fact, that is how you acquire the various weaponry and ammo as opposed to an ammo depot or weapon stash.

Graphics: For a 2012 release the graphics are not cutting edge by today's standards, but very slick looking.  Max Payne 3 presents a semi-realistic feeling to weapons and environment.  Overall, they are well done with a minimal impact on your computers hardware.  

Game Modes: Max Pane 3, like the game series, is designed with the single player in mind.  There is a cooperative mode.  The coop mode lets two players defend against waves of enemies in separate non-campaign missions.  There is also a multiplayer mode where two teams face off against each other, which could be considered cooperative, but not really.

Requirements: A mid-range PC and video card should be fine.

OS: Windows 7 32/64 Service Pack 1, Windows Vista 32/64 Service Pack 2, Windows XP 32/64 Service Pack 3
Processor: Intel Dual Core 2.4 GHZ -  i7 3930K 6 Core  x 3.06 GHZ / AMD Dual Core 2.6 GHZ - FX8150 8 Core x 3.6 GHZ
Memory: 2GB - 16GB
Hard Disk Space: 35 Gigs
Video Card: NVIDIA® 8600 GT 512MB VRAM – NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 680 2GB VRAM / Radeon HD 3400 512MB VRAM - Radeon HD 7970 3GB VRAM
Sound Card: 100% Direct X 9.0 compatible – Direct X 9.0 compatible supporting Dolby Digital Live
Additional:Please refer to your hardware manufacturer and http://support.rockstargames.com/home for current compatibility information. Some system components such as mobile chipsets,
Integrated, and AGP graphics cards may be incompatible. Unlisted specifications may not be supported by publisher.
Other Requirements: Initial activation requires internet connection and a valid Rockstar Social Club account (13+ to register); Online play requires log-in to Rockstar Social Club (13+); software installation required including GameShield IronWrap; DirectX and Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 SP1 Redistributable Package (x86).

It is difficult at best to pick out a few videos that adequately represent the game.  So, here are several random videos that highlight portions and features..