The graphics are fantastic, with the game employing a vivid visual style. Max Payne 3 is overwhelmingly impressive from a production values standpoint. The only constants are Max himself and, of course, his ability to slow down time to engage in combat. References to the events of the first two games are minimal and, aside from a couple of flashback missions set in New York, the game is set in a different city in a different country with a very different culture (not to mention a different and un-translated language).

Rockstar games often feature damaged protagonists trying to live better lives but being drawn back into a life of violence by circumstances, which is a perfect fit for Payne. Whilst fans of the earlier games were dubious of this move, it was actually reasonably logical. Remedy Entertainment, who made the first two games in the series, have moved on with their Alan Wake series of games, leaving Rockstar (best-known for the Grand Theft Auto series) to carry on their work. Max Payne 3 sees the return of the titular hero after a break of nine years.

Elements of style max payne 2