User Score
8.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1559 Ratings

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  1. MattiS.
    Oct 21, 2003
    10
    What a great game! I love it. Great graphics. Sounds are awesome! And Bullet Time is VERY COOL!
  2. CraigH.
    Jan 15, 2008
    10
    I've just completed the game. Extremely engaging story. A vast improvment on Max Payne 1's graphic novel sequences. Lots of fun details: vomiting inmates, "Lords and Ladies" TV series etc., heart braking theme song by "Poets of the Fall": "Late Goodbye" that echoes the lost opportunities feeling of the game. I feel as though I slept through the 9-11 attacks and missed a tidal I've just completed the game. Extremely engaging story. A vast improvment on Max Payne 1's graphic novel sequences. Lots of fun details: vomiting inmates, "Lords and Ladies" TV series etc., heart braking theme song by "Poets of the Fall": "Late Goodbye" that echoes the lost opportunities feeling of the game. I feel as though I slept through the 9-11 attacks and missed a tidal wave of a game by not buying it until four years after it was first released. Better late than never, I guess. Oh, and the graphics are as satasfying as Bioshock's but with double the frame-rate. Now on to the unlocked game modes. Expand
  3. AnonymousOne
    Jan 11, 2010
    10
    A fine sequel to the original Max Payne. Game mechanics are intuitive, story is compelling and the cinematic format is still unique and engaging. Once immersed it is hard to quit the game. Certainly makes a gamer anticipate the next installment...:)
  4. 420RymeELite
    Nov 4, 2003
    10
    I was a huge fan of the first Max Payne but the second took all of the great aspects of the first, and cut out all fat. Much better job with the dreams, graphics, and bullet time. Just the minute details that you see during game play is enough to blow u away. I hope this series continues on threw a few more episodes < and hey... toke and play the fun house...the spirally thing isI was a huge fan of the first Max Payne but the second took all of the great aspects of the first, and cut out all fat. Much better job with the dreams, graphics, and bullet time. Just the minute details that you see during game play is enough to blow u away. I hope this series continues on threw a few more episodes < and hey... toke and play the fun house...the spirally thing is incredible> Ryme Expand
  5. PayneRocks
    Oct 24, 2003
    10
    Wonderful game! Let me make a few points here 1. If you say this game has no story, its not your fault you just need to get a little older. 2. Load times...er... not that bad...(cough...upgrade...cough) try Postal 2. 3. For those who say too many cut-scenes, go play Unreal tourney. 4. Oh and just in case you didn't know - Great games are always TOO SHORT! GIMME MORE MAX PAYNE!
  6. MarekM.
    Mar 30, 2007
    10
    This game is just awesome. I mean, I played it three times through as it was released and lately(March 2k7) I was bored of the new games and installed MP2 and played it again. It is even now an awesome. The graphics are still very nice to look at (especially the Bullet-Time!), the story is still top-notch. I just love it. I love Max Payne. A character you empathize with.
  7. JohnR
    Feb 6, 2009
    10
    It is still one of the best and most solid Third Person Shooters out there. The storytelling and the scenario itself reached a highter (and in my eyes even more mature) level than in the first game, the graphics were as good as they were possible back then (even current titles have a hard time creating as good character graphics as Max Payne 2 had) and the action itself is as exciting and It is still one of the best and most solid Third Person Shooters out there. The storytelling and the scenario itself reached a highter (and in my eyes even more mature) level than in the first game, the graphics were as good as they were possible back then (even current titles have a hard time creating as good character graphics as Max Payne 2 had) and the action itself is as exciting and cool as it can be. And also there are some nice bonusses such as the alternate ending on the highest difficulty and the Dead Man Walking mode, featuring a local high score table. In my eyes simply one of the best games ever. And for all those who oppose: What better third person shooters are there? What games feature a more intelligent and thrilling story? Seriously: I don't know any. Expand
  8. CodyBaker
    Jun 18, 2009
    10
    No story has captivated me this much since the original max payne! With DELICIOUS views of new york city, memorable moments, and the heart-pounding climaxes at the end of each chapter are all epic. The coolness & badassness of max payne's character is just icing on the cake, damn this game is addictingly delicious! A well-crafted treat for gamers as they turn on their gamingNo story has captivated me this much since the original max payne! With DELICIOUS views of new york city, memorable moments, and the heart-pounding climaxes at the end of each chapter are all epic. The coolness & badassness of max payne's character is just icing on the cake, damn this game is addictingly delicious! A well-crafted treat for gamers as they turn on their gaming systems, turn off the lights, grab some snacks, and crank up the volume and get ready to be blown out of their fuckin minds with this film noir masterpiece! Too bad it didn't sell well, probably because rockstar & remedy spent alot of their money to hire professional hollywood actors to do the parts for the characters, or maybe it was because they didn't show it at e3 2002 or 2003 (or advertising for that matter). Defidently genre-defining, although it's short (5 to 6 hours for the expert gamer) and there are only 3 bosses (if you choose to spare the 2nd one earlier). Over all, it is a masterpiece of epic proportions. Expand
  9. AhmedR.
    Oct 19, 2003
    10
    Awesome graphics, amazing game play, if you like the first, you'll love the second!!!
  10. NickC.
    Oct 26, 2003
    10
    Excellent game, great story, great action. Short but sweet. Graphics and physics are top notch.
  11. DaveD.
    Jul 27, 2006
    10
    The Atmosphere is not as good as in MP1 but the Graphic and the leveldesign is great.
  12. JJ
    Apr 11, 2008
    10
    I've been a PC gamer for close to 25 years now, and MP2 is one of my favorite gaming experiences ever. Considering entertainment had while playing, it might be the most enjoyable shooter I ever played, Half-Life and other titans included. (Half-Life might be a better game, and have a much larger scope, but I enjoyed MP2 much more.) The graphics were (and still are) great; clean, I've been a PC gamer for close to 25 years now, and MP2 is one of my favorite gaming experiences ever. Considering entertainment had while playing, it might be the most enjoyable shooter I ever played, Half-Life and other titans included. (Half-Life might be a better game, and have a much larger scope, but I enjoyed MP2 much more.) The graphics were (and still are) great; clean, crisp, and ridiculously efficient. The cornball film noir story is a treat. The sounds and music are superb. Mona Sax is an awesome anti-heroine; and for sheer butt-kicking sexy, I'd take her over Alyx Vance or Laura Croft any day of the week. Truth be told, some levels are narrow and poorly designed, and there is plenty of re-hashing of environments. But some maps (and the action embedded therein) are so creative and memorable that the game overcomes whatever negatives it could be charged with. Playing the same level twice, once from Mona's perspective, once from Max's is pure pleasure. The Funhouse level deserves to be in the computer game map hall of fame. I could go on an on. If for some reason you haven't played MP2 and you've got ten bucks to spend, search the 'value game' section or the bargain bin and pick up MP2. By the way, there will be no MP3-- Alan Wake will be the next Remedy game, built on essentially the same formula. I anxiously await it, and hope it doesn't succumb to big-budget complete seriousness. Expand
  13. AlistaireP
    Nov 1, 2009
    10
    One of the best games I have been played. Great musics and sound effects. Great story, true tragedy in film noir sense. Playing was fun and its intuitive map design was good too.
  14. JoshuaG
    Feb 22, 2009
    10
    This game is a true joy to play. It is cinematic in every way. The ending is fitting to such a great sequel.
  15. MTElija
    Apr 7, 2009
    10
    Nearly five years on and I still find myself giving this experience a go. Brilliant.
  16. zdogjr
    Jan 16, 2010
    10
    i loved this game, it fixed all the little things i didnt like in the first, and adds a lot of new things, the voice acting is still awsome (the voice actor for max is one of the best ive ever heard) the story seems to have gotten better, the weapons still feel powerfull and usefull. in the end if you loved the first one, this is a must buy.
  17. DavidK.
    Nov 14, 2003
    10
    The game is great! There are some very funny and clever elements added. The story is scripted well and most importantly the game has the key element so many other miss, it is FUN TO PLAY!!!
  18. AlexM.
    Oct 16, 2003
    10
    Absolutely amazing...best gaming experience ive had so far in fps, hell any game for that matter-buy it for the pc asap!!
  19. TapioS.
    Oct 17, 2003
    10
    Yes, all what we wait for... nice action... for finland.
  20. JimM.
    Oct 23, 2003
    10
    Best Graphics, Best Sound, Best Visual Effects.....Wow wait till he is in a dream and the walls and everything are moving. Never saw that in another game. Totally Wild. Seriously...I never liked the first one as much but this one is so polished and looks so good u have to love it;) Short? Been -playing for days. Its so much fun I take my time. Sure it may bhort if u fly thru the game and Best Graphics, Best Sound, Best Visual Effects.....Wow wait till he is in a dream and the walls and everything are moving. Never saw that in another game. Totally Wild. Seriously...I never liked the first one as much but this one is so polished and looks so good u have to love it;) Short? Been -playing for days. Its so much fun I take my time. Sure it may bhort if u fly thru the game and play every waking hr. I have a life so I just play it for a hr or so a night. Enjoy this game it blows everything else away! Expand
  21. MichalW._fromPoland
    Dec 31, 2003
    10
    This game is short. But it's very very entertaining. Graphics is just the best I've seen. Havok engine does the job - I just loved to watch how chairs and people flew after I threw a grenade. The story is very good. Music is great. Motion capture is perfect. It has the same fantastic atmosphere as its predecessor. It's just done perfectly. What can I add? There are so many This game is short. But it's very very entertaining. Graphics is just the best I've seen. Havok engine does the job - I just loved to watch how chairs and people flew after I threw a grenade. The story is very good. Music is great. Motion capture is perfect. It has the same fantastic atmosphere as its predecessor. It's just done perfectly. What can I add? There are so many crappy games and so many average games ( like Chrome, Bloodrayne, Conflict: Desert Storm 2 ) that MAX just has to shine. It's a great game. *Forgive my English - I still have much to learn.. [Ed: looked perfect to me...] Expand
  22. 655321Ofnoconcerntoyou
    Oct 24, 2003
    10
    The plot is more confused and less impressive than Max Payne ones. Bullet holes weren't implemented as varied as in MP1, not because the devs couldnt use them, but because they were too lazy to set the surface properites of most objects and surfaces within the levels. Compared to Max Payne 1 i would give it a 7.5 but standalone it deserves a 9. Just like pc gamer i will rate it standalone.
  23. SimonR.
    Oct 26, 2003
    10
    I loved Max Payne 1 and I love a lot eaven Max Payne 2. I can't wait for a Max Payne 3. Get it it's wonderful!!!
  24. MatthieuR.
    Dec 7, 2003
    10
    What have we come to, that 12 hours of gaming heaven is considered short? Go back and play the classics, people! You can beat Mario in less than half that! Do the math, it comes to some 4 or 5$ per hour, cheaper than the latest Hollywood drivel (and you can sell a game back). It was a good story, great voice acting and beautiful artwork, awesome action. Can't wait for 3!
  25. 420RymeELite
    Oct 28, 2003
    10
    Great game much better than original (if your computer is good enough).
  26. SeanP.
    Dec 14, 2007
    10
    In my 20 Years of gaming history, there were only 2 games that really got it, to capture me in their world - that's the whole Half Life Thing ... especially starting at the Episode stuff. On the other hand, it's the Max Payne story. Max Payne 1 was really good but since Max Payne really got "serious", by changing the optical charakter, it's really so much more impressive. In my 20 Years of gaming history, there were only 2 games that really got it, to capture me in their world - that's the whole Half Life Thing ... especially starting at the Episode stuff. On the other hand, it's the Max Payne story. Max Payne 1 was really good but since Max Payne really got "serious", by changing the optical charakter, it's really so much more impressive. He just looks like he feels - totally bad. The music, the comic-dequences, the story - everything is so perfect in it's way, that i always get a goose skin while thinking about quotes or the ending, while everything is still, you only see some lips and Max saying: "I've had a dream of my wife. She was dead. But that was all right." (it's shaking me again while writing this.) The alternate ending on "Dead on Arrival" Mode is ... ok ... but a too hollywood styling Happy End. But that's not the point. If I had to decide between nowadays titles like Crysis or a Max Payne 2, i will choose Max every single time, just too really "feel" this whole story with ups and downs. Max Payne 2 is the most perfect game up to today. And since Max Payne 3 was announced, i'm praying they won't let this series digging it's own grave. It would be a mess for me. Expand
  27. CiaranG.
    Dec 18, 2006
    10
    Its a perfect game. The graphics are amazing, great storyline, excellent level design, wide variety of weapons. If only all games were as good as this.
  28. Oct 24, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is probably the game that has similar graphics to Valve's Half-Life 2. The graphics, gameplay and the story just got even better with this awesome TPS. But the amount of good add-on games (like the original Max Payne) are limited. Expand
  29. Apr 22, 2013
    10
    I don't give out 10/10 easy, but Max Payne is a must. If you don't play this game your are missing out on a masterpiece of graphics, story, character development, sound, and setting. I've played this game through to the end I've lost count. I highly recommend after the first play-through install Cinema mod for a rebooted experience with music and even more weapons. This game is theI don't give out 10/10 easy, but Max Payne is a must. If you don't play this game your are missing out on a masterpiece of graphics, story, character development, sound, and setting. I've played this game through to the end I've lost count. I highly recommend after the first play-through install Cinema mod for a rebooted experience with music and even more weapons. This game is the best thing to come from Remedy. Expand
  30. Sep 9, 2011
    10
    This is a instant classic of its time, and has aged very well, and being a personal computer game at that this game has good polygon counts, non copy pasted environments, Good art and textures, there is not single texture in this game that looks out of place or looks blurry and ruins the immersion. This is game that clearly didn't worry too much about hardware budgets. Its an example ofThis is a instant classic of its time, and has aged very well, and being a personal computer game at that this game has good polygon counts, non copy pasted environments, Good art and textures, there is not single texture in this game that looks out of place or looks blurry and ruins the immersion. This is game that clearly didn't worry too much about hardware budgets. Its an example of what a real game should be.. A work of art and story that will age well. The Remedy guys did a top job on creating this. Expand
  31. Oct 12, 2011
    10
    Totally shocked by this game. Brings everything well - emotional plot, brutally action and impressive feeling that everything's on good position. definitely one of best games in my life
  32. May 22, 2012
    10
    One of the best TPSes of all time. Amazing game, you should definitely play it. The only bad thing about this is that it's extremely short (I can beat it in 3 hours), but the several hours you'll get from playing the story are breathtaking. The story is amazing. Also, it is very moddable, so you can download all kinds of mods from the Internet. Try Payne Effects 3.
  33. Oct 3, 2012
    10
    Un juego jodida mente bueno el mejor de la saga, es algo que no lo supero, su historia, y como juego de shooter en tercera persona es lo mejor que hay,
  34. Dec 15, 2012
    10
    RainbowDashie13 is totally not right in one thing - MP2 for PC was developed by REMEDY, so let's not praise Rockstar too high as they killed MPs soul in their onw version - MP3.
    MP2 is splendid game, I really love it and true fan of it.
    THX Remedy for everything, U R THE BEST!
  35. May 17, 2012
    10
    Rockstar Games took Remedy's franchise and developed Max Payne 2, and boy, did they do a job well done.
    They improved everything in this game; Graphics, Sound Design, Animations and so on...
    Much like the first game, this game is WAY too outstanding for it's time, Half Life 2 has one of the best graphics of 2004 but I think Max Payne 2 might just beat it in the slightest pixel. They added
    Rockstar Games took Remedy's franchise and developed Max Payne 2, and boy, did they do a job well done.
    They improved everything in this game; Graphics, Sound Design, Animations and so on...
    Much like the first game, this game is WAY too outstanding for it's time, Half Life 2 has one of the best graphics of 2004 but I think Max Payne 2 might just beat it in the slightest pixel.
    They added physics to this game and WOW it works very well and it actually adds a lot to the game and it is very helpful, like pushing an explosive barrel towards an enemy and then blowing it up, or if a dead enemy's weapon gets stuck in some edge just shoot it a couple times for it to fall in your hands.
    This game is outstanding and I just can't tell which game is better the 1st Max Payne or the 2nd one, they are both just perfect.
    But still, I wonder what would of happen to the series if Remedy kept making the games... Hmmm... Max's face from the first game in the third one...
    Expand
  36. Jun 9, 2012
    10
    This is a perfect sequel, a game that improves every aspect of the original. Better graphics, polished shooting and bullet time mechanics, motion capture, professional actors, and hell, just more noirish Max Payne misadventures make it one of the best shooter games ever made. By the way, Rockstar only ported the game to the consoles while Remedy has done all the work, despite what someThis is a perfect sequel, a game that improves every aspect of the original. Better graphics, polished shooting and bullet time mechanics, motion capture, professional actors, and hell, just more noirish Max Payne misadventures make it one of the best shooter games ever made. By the way, Rockstar only ported the game to the consoles while Remedy has done all the work, despite what some people think. Expand
  37. Aug 4, 2012
    10
    I love this game! I love its amazing story, adrenaline full gameplay, dark, rainy atmosphere, slow motion time, everything! The only thing i hate about this game is...well I can't find any. Amazing game with exceptional story and gameplay!
  38. Oct 17, 2012
    10
    My First PC Game played 4yrs ago! My favourite shooter game which has a thrilling story, a confused protagonist, but most importantly a coherent plot which was a bit cheesy in a few places but i still loved it!
  39. Aug 23, 2017
    10
    Sequels very rarely live up to the original, especially if it is as good as the first Max Payne. Against all odds, Max Payne 2 embraces what it is; a dark, revenge story filled with very captivating, well-written and voiced characters trying to burn their way through the depths of depravity, politics and retribution that constitute their world. No happy endings and no second best options.Sequels very rarely live up to the original, especially if it is as good as the first Max Payne. Against all odds, Max Payne 2 embraces what it is; a dark, revenge story filled with very captivating, well-written and voiced characters trying to burn their way through the depths of depravity, politics and retribution that constitute their world. No happy endings and no second best options. Everything goes to hell. Expand
  40. Sep 11, 2012
    10
    We Will Never Forget Remedy's Max Payne.
  41. Nov 27, 2012
    10
    One of the best games ever made in my opinion, let alone best sequel. Story is fantastic, and even though I already knew the whole story (due to spoilers on the internet and such), I almost cried at the end of it. Best in the Max Payne series, and you should get on steam and buy this. I mean, it's only like $15. SERIOUSLY. DO IT NOW!!!!!!!!
  42. Jan 30, 2013
    10
    Atfer a long time, I play this game once again, Im really impressed, the game is really good, bullet time moments are to funny and the game is really intresting as well as emotionally engaging.
  43. Jul 23, 2020
    10
    This game is a true masterpiece. Great gameplay, story, atmosphere and characters. Can't really forget about this game.
  44. ERB
    Aug 26, 2013
    10
    One of the best PC games I've ever played.It was no surprise that this game would get a high score.I mean the first Max Payne game is one of the best game ever made so I was expecting that the sequel was gonna be good.The game play is good and even the storyline of the game is great.But those parts are not the best parts of the game,the best part is the Bullet time.Yeah I know any gameOne of the best PC games I've ever played.It was no surprise that this game would get a high score.I mean the first Max Payne game is one of the best game ever made so I was expecting that the sequel was gonna be good.The game play is good and even the storyline of the game is great.But those parts are not the best parts of the game,the best part is the Bullet time.Yeah I know any game that is great should have Bullet Time effects because It always look good in gaming.So I'm giving this game a 10/10 score because this game is great.I like this game. Expand
  45. Sep 3, 2013
    10
    The sequel of Max Payne is just like it but better.Max Payne 2 like original has good story and game play but the thing that make it better that most of thing in missions are movable that why I like it.Again the best thing
    about it is BULLET TIME.
  46. Nov 19, 2013
    10
    Max Payne 2 is a great squeal, to bad they changed the face of Max Payne. I preferred Sami Järvi. (He wrote the story for Max Payne 1 and 2 and the lyrics for ''Late Goodbye'' Max Payne 2 ending song) The story's great with showing how Max copes with the grief of his murdered wife and baby daughter.
  47. Nov 24, 2013
    10
    For me this is a refined version of Max Payne 1. You can feel that Max's character has matured and he's become a wiser man. This is somewhat of an analogy for Remedy who having succeeded with Max Payne now have moved from a basement to an office with proper funding. One could expect a sequel to be a flop however this has only continued the quality that was put into Max Payne 1. Great toFor me this is a refined version of Max Payne 1. You can feel that Max's character has matured and he's become a wiser man. This is somewhat of an analogy for Remedy who having succeeded with Max Payne now have moved from a basement to an office with proper funding. One could expect a sequel to be a flop however this has only continued the quality that was put into Max Payne 1. Great to see Sam Lake writing for this one, the comics are still a technical workaround but add essence to the game (something Max Payne 3 under Rockstar has lost). Expand
  48. Anz
    Dec 14, 2013
    10
    When this game got released 2003 this was one of the best games out there. Remedy Entertainment did good job on this sequel. Rockstar games ONLY published this they didn't have anything else to do with this game.
  49. Oct 8, 2020
    10
    Trying to improve upon Max Payne was a monumental task but I think Remedy managed to do it. The story is just as well done. The characters are as good as ever. The voice acting was a delight. The graphics have been improved over the original. The clothing detail; hair; gun detail; object detail and ground detail were all noticeably better than the original. They added a few new guns likeTrying to improve upon Max Payne was a monumental task but I think Remedy managed to do it. The story is just as well done. The characters are as good as ever. The voice acting was a delight. The graphics have been improved over the original. The clothing detail; hair; gun detail; object detail and ground detail were all noticeably better than the original. They added a few new guns like the MP5 and the AK-47 both of which are fun to use. They did nerf the sniper rifle for some reason. It takes multiple shots to kill an enemy compared to it mainly being a one hit kill weapon in the original. You get to take control of Mona Sax for a few chapters which was a nice change. My only gripe about that was that while I was controlling her Max would not use any pain meds to heal damage even though he had some when I was last in control of him. Speaking of that one other part I didn’t like was that you have to keep an eye on Max and Vinny at different points in what are basically an escort mission where if they die it’s game over. Not my favorite type of mission for sure.

    I played Max Payne 2 on Linux using Valve’s Proton. It never crashed on me and I didn’t notice any bugs. The performance was fantastic, which was to be expected with the game’s age. Aside from one short dip to 82 FPS the game was always over 100 FPS. The game has 3 AA options; 3 AF options; and 15 other graphics options. You can manually save whenever you want and there are 10 slots for it. There are also 3 slots for auto saves which the game uses periodically if you prefer that. Alt-Tab works. You can choose from a variety of crosshair options. You can pause and skip cut scenes.

    Game Engine: Renderware
    Save System: Manual (at any time) and Auto
    Settings Used: All Highest; 8x AA; AF; 1920x1080

    Disk Space Used: 1590 MB
    VRAM Usage: 714-851 MB
    CPU Usage: 10-18 %
    RAM Usage: 2.4-3.0 GB
    Frame Rate: 82-144 FPS

    Like the original, Max Payne 2 rates as an all time classic for me. It has a fantastic story which builds and improves upon the original. The characters are all worth caring about and fleshed out. The graphics got an overhaul. The voice acting remains superb. The music was wonderful. I finished the game on detective difficulty in 6 hours. That’s a tad shorter than the original but it in no way feels rushed. If you enjoy third person shooters at all or games with a strong story you owe it to yourself to try this out. I paid $2.55 CAD for the game on Steam as well as having bought the physical copy back in the day. This game is worth whatever they want to charge, well above the $10.99 CAD it currently retails for.

    My Score: 9.5/10

    My System:

    AMD Ryzen 5 2600X | 16GB DDR4-3000 CL15 | MSI RX 5700 XT Gaming X 8GB | Mesa 20.1.8 | Samsung 970 Evo Plus 500GB | Manjaro 20.1.1 | Mate 1.24.1 | Kernel 5.8.11-1-MANJARO | AOC G2460P 1920*1080 @ 144hz | Proton 5.0-9
    Expand
  50. BFM
    Apr 5, 2020
    10
    The best Remedy game to date, from a time when they knew how to make PC games.
  51. Dec 2, 2020
    10
    greattttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt
  52. Oct 1, 2015
    10
    I've honestly never found a game so re-playable due to it's narrative. The pace, the structure and plot-line itself captivate me, as much as any well-made film would. This game excels in both story-telling and character development, perfectly capturing the correct atmosphere to homage the film-noir genre, whilst still implementing fun and exciting action gameplay. The voice-over talent forI've honestly never found a game so re-playable due to it's narrative. The pace, the structure and plot-line itself captivate me, as much as any well-made film would. This game excels in both story-telling and character development, perfectly capturing the correct atmosphere to homage the film-noir genre, whilst still implementing fun and exciting action gameplay. The voice-over talent for all characters, large and small, is so well done that it really helps bring these fictitious characters to life. If you're a fan of the original Max Payne, or just good mystery-thrillers, then you will certainly enjoy the game, and be engrossed into the fall of Max Payne. Expand
  53. Jun 9, 2016
    10
    This game has got amazing story as in all Max Payne Games and I think all Max Payne Games deserve 10/10 and Max Payne 2 and 3 I appreciated on 10/10 . I think Max Payne 2 and Max Payne 3 (Special Max Payne 3) enter in top 20 best games in world, but Max Payne 2 is awesome on PC . On Xbox and PS2 not really good . Graphics for PC Version is very good and amazing and has got good graphicsThis game has got amazing story as in all Max Payne Games and I think all Max Payne Games deserve 10/10 and Max Payne 2 and 3 I appreciated on 10/10 . I think Max Payne 2 and Max Payne 3 (Special Max Payne 3) enter in top 20 best games in world, but Max Payne 2 is awesome on PC . On Xbox and PS2 not really good . Graphics for PC Version is very good and amazing and has got good graphics and many things which the there are in Max Payne 3 and I think Max Payne Series one of the best series on this world . Very Amazing Game . Expand
  54. Dec 10, 2016
    10
    "The case was a rising nausea that tasted like rust in my mouth."

    Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne brings our favourite bloodied and worn NYPD cop back in great fashion with better visuals, new takes on storytelling and the same old stellar voice acting all around. Pretty much everyone is back from the original Max Payne and we get to see the aftermath of bringing Aesir Corp. down
    "The case was a rising nausea that tasted like rust in my mouth."

    Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne brings our favourite bloodied and worn NYPD cop back in great fashion with better visuals, new takes on storytelling and the same old stellar voice acting all around. Pretty much everyone is back from the original Max Payne and we get to see the aftermath of bringing Aesir Corp. down along with Horne, it has been two years according to the wiki. This time around there are 2 main protagonists that you control which offers some interesting segments of teamwork from the two characters to get through seemingly grave situations.
    The gameplay is pretty much the same with a few tweaks and upgrades making for an even smoother experience this time around. When Max dives you can now continue to stay laying down until you let the trigger go which is definitely a welcome addition. There are definitely more painkillers to be found in Max Payne 2 as well which is fine because it is definitely a challenge at some points. All around this is a proper sequel to a cult classic expanding on the world of Max Payne and you should definitely play through the whole trilogy.

    As a note, the game will take some tweaking to get working as you would like and there are some cool mods like the Max Payne 3 mod which I may try in my next playthrough.

    "But I refused to give in. I had to continue."
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  55. Jul 16, 2017
    10
    Great as the first game. The story becomes even more beautiful thanks to mona sax. The relationship between max and mona is really interesting. Graphics, gameplay, character designs really have improvement. I think some players complain that the game is short, there is enough time for the game.
  56. Dec 20, 2020
    10
    Любимая игра детства. Ни одну другую игру я не перепроходил больше, чем эту. Умоляю, воскресите серию.
  57. Jun 5, 2017
    10
    More than ten years have passed since the release of the second part, and no one has got close to the level of Remedy. The best Max Payne of the living.
  58. Mar 1, 2018
    10
    Que decir de Max Payne... la verdad que me quedaría corto de decir quien es y como fue su historia.
    Pero iré al grano resumiendo muy brevemente para que sepan algo de el, Bueno, Max Payne es un detective privado de New York, su mujer y su hija fueron asesinadas.
    Desde entonces Max deicidio buscar al responsable para vengarse de el, pero en el camino se encuentra con otro delincuentes que
    Que decir de Max Payne... la verdad que me quedaría corto de decir quien es y como fue su historia.
    Pero iré al grano resumiendo muy brevemente para que sepan algo de el, Bueno, Max Payne es un detective privado de New York, su mujer y su hija fueron asesinadas.
    Desde entonces Max deicidio buscar al responsable para vengarse de el, pero en el camino se encuentra con otro delincuentes que no se la ponen fácil haciendo que el tome medidas de asesinar a todo aquel que se le cruce en el camino.

    Bueno ahora para hablar del juego: Yo creo como les acabo de narrar,tiene una historia muy profunda muy bien contada, la música esta bastante bien y sobre todo la jugabilidad es excelente muy fresca y la dificultad digamos que esta medianamente equilibrada una joya sin duda.
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  59. Dec 3, 2017
    10
    one of the best games in the world.i love this game and
    I've finished more than 15 time.max is an invincible man.
    Generally every part & graphic & sound was awesome.
  60. Jul 31, 2020
    10
    This game has placed a deep trail in my childhood. It is more than master piece than the newer games.
  61. May 30, 2020
    10
    During my life, I have played plenty of games but this one was the best one. Even today with its great game mechanics it is a playable game and in 2003 people must have been fascinated when they played this.

    10/10
  62. Sep 26, 2018
    10
    My favorite max payne game this game was so good back in the day it provided such a nice story and gameplay which only a few games did!!
  63. Jun 19, 2023
    10
    Those of us who played the OG Max Payne in 2001 spent those two years afterwards being extremely hyped for the sequel...and it was worth it.

    Max Payne 2, like its predecessor, is yet another gaming history Masterpiece. Everything that made the original fun to play and exciting, the sequel had it turbo-charged, all of it, and then some. This game was pretty praised for its ragdoll
    Those of us who played the OG Max Payne in 2001 spent those two years afterwards being extremely hyped for the sequel...and it was worth it.

    Max Payne 2, like its predecessor, is yet another gaming history Masterpiece. Everything that made the original fun to play and exciting, the sequel had it turbo-charged, all of it, and then some.

    This game was pretty praised for its ragdoll physics back in 2003, some games were starting to use pretty "advanced" physics, for the time, and surely Max Payne 2 was one of those.

    I remember being blown away by the graphics when it came out, and my PC had some trouble running it at pretty high settings, but it was still manageable.

    In 2023, this game still holds up quite nicely, without any graphics mods or anything, only the usual widescreen fix and...pretty much that's all you need (maybe the d3d8to9 wrapper, included with the famous widescreen fix from ThirteenAG, but I've played on DX8 too, many times, without major issues).

    Since it's a DX8/9 game (depending if we use any wrapper), it's pretty easy to force insane amounts of Super Sampling AA or Downsampling into this game, and any semi modern GPU will handle it at pretty good FPS, no issues, and you'll get an absolutely jaggie-free looking game.

    In this sequel we can see how Remedy upped their technology a lot, with the inclusion of actual in game Televisions, which did not require their own separate cutscene, all done in game, something they would continue using in all of their games, such as Alan Wake.
    It was amazing to just take a break and watch the bizarre yet funny in game shows and follow their "plots" episode by episode, and still is today, it never gets old.

    And the story in this game is one of the best from Remedy, no doubt, unforgettable characters, we keep wanting to know more about them, most are shrouded in ambiguity and that's keep that thriller feel for sure.
    The story in this game was what surely cemented Remedy's path towards their future, which then we saw with their next amazing game, Alan Wake.

    With the Remake for these two games, Max Payne 1 and 2, already announced, I look forward to seeing these running on the Northlight Engine and with modern physics, I can't wait, I've replayed these games so, so much...and I'll continue to do so, they're simply timeless and Max Payne 2 here is just incredible.
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  64. Jan 12, 2019
    10
    This game completes the greatest story in the history of video games, while keeping the gameplay fresh, fun and repayable from start to finish. Brilliantly written, with two incredibly satisfying endings, and multiple side characters who are fully fleshed out and every bit as memorable as the variously intermixed TV episodes. It just doesn't get any better than MP 1 and 2 as far as singleThis game completes the greatest story in the history of video games, while keeping the gameplay fresh, fun and repayable from start to finish. Brilliantly written, with two incredibly satisfying endings, and multiple side characters who are fully fleshed out and every bit as memorable as the variously intermixed TV episodes. It just doesn't get any better than MP 1 and 2 as far as single player gaming is concerned. 100/100!!! Expand
  65. Jun 27, 2020
    10
    One the best storytellings and gameplays in my entire life
    I love Max Payne 2 in every way
    Especially music and Atmosphere
  66. Aug 30, 2019
    10
    The gameplay is pretty good even in 2019, but the story... the setting... the atmosphere... indescribable. Masterpiece of a game
  67. Oct 26, 2019
    10
    Great game with great combat, yes the story is short but I think quality > quantity
  68. Aug 7, 2023
    10
    İlk oyunu oynayan bilir. Max abimiz çok aşk perest bir insan olup, aşkı uğruna dağları delen genç delikanlılardan biriydi. Max abimiz önceki oyunda kendisini karısını öldürenlerden intikam almaya adayan bir insandı. Bu sefer Max karşımıza biraz farklı fakat ilk oyun ile çoğu zaman kesişen bir konu ile çıkıyor. Max Payne, NYPD'de çalışan bir dedektiftir ve ilginçtir ki ortağını öldürmek ileİlk oyunu oynayan bilir. Max abimiz çok aşk perest bir insan olup, aşkı uğruna dağları delen genç delikanlılardan biriydi. Max abimiz önceki oyunda kendisini karısını öldürenlerden intikam almaya adayan bir insandı. Bu sefer Max karşımıza biraz farklı fakat ilk oyun ile çoğu zaman kesişen bir konu ile çıkıyor. Max Payne, NYPD'de çalışan bir dedektiftir ve ilginçtir ki ortağını öldürmek ile suçlanmaktadır. İşin daha da ilginci gerçekte ortağını öldürdüğünü Expand
  69. Feb 12, 2020
    10
    Even more amazing than the first one. The kind of surreal parts with Mona were great.
  70. Jan 28, 2021
    10
    Oynanış: 39/40
    Hikaye: 25/30
    Grafikler: 20/20
    Sesler ve Müzikler: 10/10
    Sonuç: 94/100
  71. Jun 24, 2020
    10
    Max payne is already one of my favorite series of games. Max payne 2 had incredible dynamics compared to those years. I think it was the Havok Engine.The story of the game is masterpiece. It is beautifully connected with the first game. I played it again this year and it was an amazing game. I recommend it to everyone.
  72. Jul 1, 2020
    10
    The game maybe old, but in terms of gameplay and story, it's ten times better than most games today. As the first game I played as a child, I have a different sympathy for him. My score for this game is 10/10.
  73. Jul 2, 2021
    10
    Summary:
    The fall of Max Payne, indeed.

    The Good:
    + The change in the appearance of the characters. Models are more complex than in the previous game, especially in regards to the heads.
    + Bullet Time effect.
    + The sound engineer is to be applauded, especially when it comes to vocal effects.

    The Bad:
    - Short game's length.
  74. Jul 26, 2020
    10
    I really love that noire vibe, these characters, one of those games that I will never forget for the rest of my life
  75. Sep 2, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. MASTERPIECE! It is action shooter. Great story telling and EPIC atmosphere! Games back than were amazing! Features slow mo and jumping to the sides. Great gameplay, great everything! Very unique! It has like that grim and feeling lost from perspective of protagonist. It has even little of philosophy in it. Very interesting story telling indeed! Not sure if i got this right and whether or not this classify as spoilers: You are basically a detective, which is trying to caught one gang and you get contacted by person (a women), which worked for them, but wants to take them down. It feels like a dream a bit at some parts. Indeed very interesting whole game!

    And it has strong woman in it - femme fatale. Feminists and SJW would love it :D

    Why don't we get games like this anymore?
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  76. Aug 16, 2022
    10
    Quem ousaria negativar uma obra de arte como essa ?
    O nosso detetive esta de volta em uma nova aventura, é igual seu jogo antecessor, só que melhor, tudo nesse jogo é superior ao seu antecessor, nota 10 para sons, gráficos, historia, uma pena não ser pelo menos legendado em português, mas isso é fácil de se resolver, tem mods na internet com a tradução ! recomendo demais !
  77. Nov 20, 2020
    10
    PS: This rating is by 2003 standards.

    Story: 9/10
    Gameplay: 10/10
    Graphics: 10/10
    World design: 10/10
    Enjoyability: 10/10
    Conclusion: 10/10
  78. Aug 15, 2023
    10
    Just as good if not even better than the first game. Astonishing visuals and level design, and an adicting gameplay... I cannot wait to see what Remedy is planning for the remakes!
  79. Jan 1, 2021
    10
    Great improvements from Max Payne 1 all around.

    Max Payne 2 is a great improvement from the first one in terms of graphics shootdodge mechanics and gameplay in general. The amount of detail in the game is also a great addition. The amount of objects you can interact with is amazing. You can kick around every bin and box, even pizza slices can be shot around. The default difficulty is a
    Great improvements from Max Payne 1 all around.

    Max Payne 2 is a great improvement from the first one in terms of graphics shootdodge mechanics and gameplay in general. The amount of detail in the game is also a great addition. The amount of objects you can interact with is amazing. You can kick around every bin and box, even pizza slices can be shot around. The default difficulty is a lot lower than Max Payne 1, a bit too easy in my opinion. The voices are a great improvement. The random people and enemy you encounter say more interesting things. Also, all the locations are different, and some are pretty cool, such as a place called the fun house, which is like a hollywood mental asylum movie set with a bunch of props. The classic max payne madness parts returns, except the puzzles in these segments are a lot easier than max payne 1. In conclusion, for a 2003 game, this was outstanding.
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  80. May 2, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. this game is so good but use cheat final is so good Expand
  81. May 3, 2021
    10
    The story and gameplay are great. You will enjoy playing, you will be happy. Cartoon style narration is great.
  82. Sep 11, 2021
    10
    Шедевр на все времена 2. С технической точки зрения - шаг вперёд по сравнению с первой частью. И версия саундтрека из этой части мне тоже больше нравится.
  83. May 29, 2021
    10
    This game is a legend. Very fun and very enjoyable. It's technically a legend for its year of release. And it had a very satisfying ending. Some said it was difficult, but I think it's average.
  84. Jun 6, 2021
    10
    Graphics - 10/10 (by 2003 standards)

    Sound / Music - 10/10

    Story - 8/10

    How likable is main character / characters - 9/10

    World design - 10/10 (by 2003 standards)

    Conclusion - 10
  85. Jul 16, 2021
    10
    Max Payne 2. The end of an era. Although the series continues, the real end of the game ends with this game.
    If there is one thing that everyone likes in the Max Payne series, it is that they can reflect the inner voice of the character on the screen very well. Although Max Payne, played unconsciously, seems like a direct action to people, in fact, the character is constantly fighting
    Max Payne 2. The end of an era. Although the series continues, the real end of the game ends with this game.
    If there is one thing that everyone likes in the Max Payne series, it is that they can reflect the inner voice of the character on the screen very well. Although Max Payne, played unconsciously, seems like a direct action to people, in fact, the character is constantly fighting with his own inner world.

    Compared to the first game, the theme of love rather than the feeling of revenge came to the fore. This game shows the greatest pain a love can bring.

    Max Payne 2 is self-contradictory in some ways, for example, it barely mentions the family he lost in the first game in the second game. There are many theories that you can establish in the game, which shows that the events that take place are not clearly revealed.
    Nevertheless, the Max Payne series managed to be the apple of the eye of most players. It has managed to attract people with its atmosphere, music and philosophical approaches.

    I hope there will be more artistic and philosophical games like this in the next generation games.

    Let's close the article with that legendary final music.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzsiE44Lz_w
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  86. Jun 25, 2023
    10
    Takes everything that was good about Max Payne and adds tighter level design and improved mission variety. You put Sam Lake’s face back in and this and it’s pretty close to a perfect game.
  87. Jan 26, 2023
    10
    Hello, this is a default review because i'm forced to use 75 characters. I'll edit this review in the future talking about the game, don't worry ;)

    My final rate is: 10
  88. Nov 14, 2021
    10
    Its a game that you can play it on 2021.Its not have auto save system so you can feel unbeareable sometimes so if you want to play this game , save your game regularly.
  89. Nov 29, 2021
    10
    This game marked me as a child and I have beautiful memories of the game apart from that its playability was the best in its time and today it is very enjoyable to play it
  90. Dec 9, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. baya iyi oyun biraz kısa ama çok güzel zor değil 3 kez bitirdim oyuna zor diyen kolsuzdur Expand
  91. Aug 7, 2023
    10
    "Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne" serves as a remarkable continuation of the series, building upon the brilliance of its predecessor. While there's a slight shift in tone with a slightly lighter ambiance, the game remains nothing short of exceptional. The character development, gameplay enhancements, and captivating storytelling continue to shine.

    One of the standout elements of this
    "Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne" serves as a remarkable continuation of the series, building upon the brilliance of its predecessor. While there's a slight shift in tone with a slightly lighter ambiance, the game remains nothing short of exceptional. The character development, gameplay enhancements, and captivating storytelling continue to shine.

    One of the standout elements of this sequel is the remarkable character development. Max Payne's evolution remains a focal point, while the introduction of Mona Sax as a second playable character adds depth and intrigue to the narrative. Their intertwined stories create a captivating dynamic that keeps players invested.

    The gameplay in "Max Payne 2" is an improvement over its predecessor. The mechanics are refined, delivering a smoother and more satisfying experience. The signature bullet time mechanic returns, allowing players to orchestrate exhilarating slow-motion gunfights that feel both strategic and exhilarating.

    Visually, the game steps up its game. The graphics are enhanced, immersing players even further into the gritty world of Max Payne. The visual improvements contribute to the overall cinematic quality, enhancing the narrative's impact.

    Speaking of storytelling, "Max Payne 2" continues to excel in this department. While the darkness may feel a tad lighter, the storytelling is no less enthralling. The narrative weaves twists and turns, keeping players engaged and eager to uncover the next layer of the plot.

    The emotional connection to Max Payne deepens with this installment. The way the game delves into his psyche and the challenges he faces creates a bond between player and character that's truly remarkable. It's hard not to fall in love with the depth and complexity of Max's journey.

    In conclusion, "Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne" is an incredible experience that does justice to its predecessor while enhancing multiple aspects. The character development, improved gameplay mechanics, and refined graphics contribute to a game that's not only fun to play but emotionally resonant. This sequel maintains the series' high standard and delivers an amazing gaming experience that shouldn't be missed.
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  92. Mar 7, 2022
    10
    This Game Is Very Important Action Game In The History Of Action Video Games
  93. Jan 27, 2022
    10
    Story: 90/100
    Gameplay: 100/100
    Graphics: 100/100
    Music/Soundtrack: 100/100
    Main Character(s): 100/100
    Side Characters: 90/100
    Regular Enemies: 70/100
    Bosses/Boss fights: 90/100
    World/Level Design: 100/100
    Playability (Bugs and optimization after patches): 100/100
    Would I Play It Again?: Yes
    Where Does It Rank In My Top 500 Video Games of All Time List?: 4

    Rating: 100/100
  94. Jul 26, 2022
    10
    Все тот же Макс Пейн, но с более интересными уровнями, сильным сюжетом и не такой затянутый как 1 часть
  95. Sep 28, 2022
    10
    this game is great, it was the first Max that rockstar put physics in the objects of the scenery and in the enemies. At the time, the physics of this game is what we currently see in Max 3 and it's a game from 2012 10 years ago
  96. Jul 16, 2022
    10
    10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 point !
  97. Dec 6, 2022
    10
    What a game, I love the main characters (max Payne) and the ost is very good

    Story: 10/10
    Gameplay: 10/10
  98. Jan 31, 2023
    10
    What a story! What a scenes! This game is an art! You should play that if you like story based games.
  99. Feb 9, 2023
    10
    Çocukluğumu bu oyunla geçirdim nerdeyse her sene 2-3 kere bitiririm hiç bıkmam benim için yeri başka adamsin max
  100. Jun 5, 2023
    10
    A game ahead of its time, it is the best third person shooter game and it is iconic
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 46 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 41 out of 46
  2. Negative: 0 out of 46
  1. About as slick as they come, with a presentation and verve that supercedes cutting-edge. It's a short one, but good things do come in small packages after all.
  2. This series has been one of the most intense and best played games ever. I have never felt the same about a game since Half Life 1. This game sets the standard of what any shooter game should be – it's A+ quality, inside and outside.
  3. The gritty, film noir storytelling, intense bullet time action sequences and painstaking attention to detail in every area make Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne a must-have for every action fan.