Max Payne 3

 PlayStation 3
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 981 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 739 out of 981
  2. Mixed: 139 out of 981
  3. Negative: 103 out of 981
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  1. TheHorrorAnthem
    May 22, 2012
    9
    Rockstar have delivered the first full circle great game of the year. 2012 has been a bit of a disappointment thus far and largely due to reboots and sequels falling flat, but Rockstar brings the Payne and brings it hard. This is not exactly the Payne we remember but realistically it shouldn't be because much like the era of the originals, that part of Max and our lives is gone but canRockstar have delivered the first full circle great game of the year. 2012 has been a bit of a disappointment thus far and largely due to reboots and sequels falling flat, but Rockstar brings the Payne and brings it hard. This is not exactly the Payne we remember but realistically it shouldn't be because much like the era of the originals, that part of Max and our lives is gone but can never be forgotten. Max reminds us through his tortured narrations that the past clings to him much like our love for the first two installments of this series. Rockstar's fantastic talent in story telling allows those who are open minded to realize that this is Max ten years older, ten years deeper in his regret, and with about ten years worth of painkiller addiction in his blood. Taking place this time in sunny on the outside Sao Paulo Brazil, where Max is trying to start over, or at least gain a bit of personal self worth back. Leaving behind the snow, black sky, and LSD laced alleyways we all remember, Max just wants to work without having to care. He wants to get fat and drink himself to death, but as any Payne fan knows Max is a bit of a punch line when it comes to life. He begins with what should be an easy job, to protect a wealthy family with endless booze on hand. Simple enough, go to a few fancy places with the VIP's of the city, tolerate a bit of the life styles of the rich and famous and earn some easy money. Well the joke setting up the punch line enters in no time and with it a storm of violence, confusion, and a whole lot of bullets. Someone wants the family under Max's care dead it seems. At first it is as simple as thug kidnappings, ransom perhaps, but it seems early on that Max just may be thrown into another hell hole of nightmares and pain killers. There is more to it than anyone saw coming. That is all I will say about the plot because I do not wish to spoil anything at all. Max Payne 3 is a fantastic shooter showing that Rockstar cared what they were building and put tons of detail into the mechanics, everything from movement, to injuries, to blood spray are all impressive. This is the most linear creation under Rockstars name in years if not ever, but fear not, it works. They are masters of the open world proven time and time again, so the thought of a linear title is interesting. After all they did not single handily create the first two games. But if Grand Theft Auto is a playground for your story to develop, think of Max Payne 3 as a steel roller coaster, with sharp turns, drops, and twists, all from a single point of view. Also unlike the Grand Theft Auto games the story is driven at a fast pace and loaded to the brim with lengthy cut scenes. This game is not afraid to lower your weapon and give you some cinematic bang for your buck. It is heavily story driven from start to finish. The cut scenes are worth mentioning as well, as they differ from past installments. No longer do we watch a comic book noire style but instead watch full movement cinematics moving forward in a surreal and dream like nature. The hue will change, images will cross fade into each other, and often images become panels similar to comics. It may even take a bit to get used to, and will not be for everyone. This game is not without flaws but they are minor and never spoil the experience. Slight screen tearing in the sky, sometimes annoying cover system, strict checkpoints and occasional audio skips, but nothing game breaking. The story is not the most original thing we have ever seen but it is defiantly intriguing and worth finishing. Gone are the classic nightmares and sense of awkward eeriness that haunted the first two games but this is hardly a flaw, as the game does not wish to mimic the first two and as aforementioned is treating Max as well as the players ten years older. The game borrows inspiration from shooter classics such as Uncharted, and players will notice, but unlike Uncharted this is nothing but a shooter, there are no puzzles involved but there are collectable items that enhance the story. All in all a great game complete with a great and quite appropriate take on multilayer that works wonderfully with the games mechanics, setting and Max's signature bullet time which has never been better. It has been a long time wait, and aside from the game not being terribly long and possibly learning to swallow the fact this is Max in a new direction it was worth it. It may at times blend in with other shooters but it wont be long before you stumble on something separating it completely. Other shooters have a right to be jealous of Max Payne as it raises the bar in 3rd person shooter story telling and delivery. Its different but its unmistakably Max and unmistakably Rockstar. At the end of the day this is how Payne is suppose to feel.… Expand
  2. nibblesupreme
    May 22, 2012
    10
    Like many I have been waiting for this game for years. The controls leave something to be desired and can leave you downright frustrated at times, however the story is out of this world, into another galaxy amazing. To boot, when the controls aren't leaving you stuck getting shot at because a paperclip is in your way, they allow for the most amazing action sequences. I was mad a few times,Like many I have been waiting for this game for years. The controls leave something to be desired and can leave you downright frustrated at times, however the story is out of this world, into another galaxy amazing. To boot, when the controls aren't leaving you stuck getting shot at because a paperclip is in your way, they allow for the most amazing action sequences. I was mad a few times, but the good parts make up for the frustrations 10 fold. I'm a sucker for a story and have been a huge fan of the series since Windows 98 though. Total bias. 10 out of 10 still.… Expand
  3. crazycat690
    May 22, 2012
    9
    While it feels a bit weird at first, it's obviously a real Max Payne game, with a Max that's more depressed than ever. It's quite amazing what Rockstar has done with Max Payne 3, Max has indeed hit rock bottom with no other choice but to push forward and it shows really well. Compared to the other games he's alot more cynical, while in the previous games he felt more like a typical actionWhile it feels a bit weird at first, it's obviously a real Max Payne game, with a Max that's more depressed than ever. It's quite amazing what Rockstar has done with Max Payne 3, Max has indeed hit rock bottom with no other choice but to push forward and it shows really well. Compared to the other games he's alot more cynical, while in the previous games he felt more like a typical action hero, now you really feel that this would all be happening to a real person. Life has taken it's toll on ol' Max, but there's no denying he's still as badass as ever, Bullet Time is beautiful, so it's kind of a shame the cover based combat is so much more effective. Don't get me wrong, use Bullet Time right and you can clear out rooms of nasty bad guys but this game is still really hard so less skilled players might be forced into a really defensive gamestyle. Moving on, the style and music is top notch, at first I was a bit bothered by the "static" effects on the screen but it actually helped to put me in Max's shoes, to see the world the way he sees it. And that is followed by really awesome music that makes the experience that much sweeter. Overall, the singleplayer is Max Payne, actually, I kinda got the same feeling I got from Die Hard 4.0, it's new, fresh, still awesome and the weird feeling that the enemies should have known better than to start a fight with a protagonist with such a record... So, to the multiplayer! It's fun, addictive and has really fun game modes, while it can feel a bit off and be frustrating at times it's still a solid part of the package. I'd like to finish off by saying it ceartainly got the Rockstar quality to it, I felt it was a bit too hard making Max's famous acrobatic skills less useful but overall it was brilliant, I give it a 9/10. I played it on Ps3, it looked really nice with detailed environments and great graphics (+ animations).… Expand
  4. InevitableG
    May 22, 2012
    10
    minus the random glitches and badly timed checkpoints i have to say that this game is incredible fun, the multi-player is without doubt the funnest thing on the game, there is a vast collection of game modes to satisfy your game buds, and the story well although it may start off a bit typical in the long run it delivers a fair amount of thrills and chills.
  5. Machine2music
    May 21, 2012
    9
    Max Payne 3 is just plain ol fun if ya ask me. I wasn't gonna buy this game.. Due to my lack of interest in Rockstar.. But I decided it was worth it after waiting all this time to atleast give it a shot. Multiplayer is extremely addictive and a whole lot of fun. I've already spent hours rising up in the ranks. Only thing it's missing is an end kill cam like in COD. It'd be nice to see theMax Payne 3 is just plain ol fun if ya ask me. I wasn't gonna buy this game.. Due to my lack of interest in Rockstar.. But I decided it was worth it after waiting all this time to atleast give it a shot. Multiplayer is extremely addictive and a whole lot of fun. I've already spent hours rising up in the ranks. Only thing it's missing is an end kill cam like in COD. It'd be nice to see the last person killed. Shooting mechanics are about the same as always. Story is good. Graphics are amazing with only a few glitches here and there. Excellent game.… Expand
  6. Big_Red
    May 20, 2012
    10
    There is no perfect game, but wow Rockstar have come close to making one. I created my account just to review this game, thats how much i love it. graphics/story 10+ story, enthralling and constantly surprising

    sound/music 11 i know its impossible but the sounds & voice work is just that good. gameplay 9 the gameplay is fantastic, its leaps and bounds above GTA IV which is a massive    There is no perfect game, but wow Rockstar have come close to making one. I created my account just to review this game, thats how much i love it. graphics/story 10+ story, enthralling and constantly surprising

    sound/music 11 i know its impossible but the sounds & voice work is just that good.

    gameplay 9 the gameplay is fantastic, its leaps and bounds above GTA IV which is a massive achievement. length wise i haven't finished yet but this is the only place i could take points away, vie heard its not an awfully long campaign. but if it needed to be sacrificed to focus on all the other amazing inclusions im happy with that, its also got great replay-ability

    multiplayer
    fun and entertaining in that they've created reasons and rewards for gameplay. COD levelling system helps too. Much better than the GTA IV multiplayer mode.

    Overall fantastic and can't complain with anything about the game. for the small price your getting a great story, an immersive interactive fluid story that keeps you on your toes.    … Expand
  7. DarkSoul89
    May 20, 2012
    10
    **** A! MP3 is an incredibly engaging 3rd person shooter with excellent physics, attention to detail & stellar presentation. The story clocks in at around 12-15 hours dependant on difficulty but if ur a completionist like myself ur talkin around 30+ hours of single player gameplayer (Hard difficulty, EVEN harder difficulty unlocked after 1st completion & then again in Time trial mode ^^.)**** A! MP3 is an incredibly engaging 3rd person shooter with excellent physics, attention to detail & stellar presentation. The story clocks in at around 12-15 hours dependant on difficulty but if ur a completionist like myself ur talkin around 30+ hours of single player gameplayer (Hard difficulty, EVEN harder difficulty unlocked after 1st completion & then again in Time trial mode ^^.) The Singleplayer will have you blowin brains out from dingy bars, nightclubs to a gang ridden part of Brazil & so forth. U can pick & wield guns at ur disposal (2 Uzi's, 2 revolvers etc or stand alone). Oh & theres multiplayer which is basically MP taken online, very addicting & accessible to rookies. Rockstar have once again proven to be masters of their craft. I buy nearly all the major release so I like to believe I can form a trusted opinion - GOTY so far.… Expand
  8. Westwell90
    May 20, 2012
    9
    Great story, fantastic gameplay you need to own this game. Never played a max payne game until 2 week ago. I bought max payne 1&2 â
  9. Tylahedras
    May 20, 2012
    6
    Over rated, it's not like it's terrible, but the multi is a worthless joke, and single player is mediocre at best. The only real selling point is that the graphics are pretty good. Blah, just spend your money on something more original.
  10. Xtremeflames
    May 20, 2012
    10
    I'm only rating this game a 10 for its amazing story mode since its superb and its re playable many times but the online sucks dick at sucking dick that's how bad it is R* ruined the franchise with its terrible online.
  11. MScott0716
    May 19, 2012
    8
    I wasn't a big fan of the cut scenes or the constant voice narrating but otherwise it's a pretty good game and the action is awesome enough that everyone should at least try it
  12. x420Raptor
    May 19, 2012
    5
    I picked up Max Payne 3 today along with Starhawk, two games i had eagerly anticipated.

    Starhawk, as soon as i picked it up and played it, i felt it was incredible, graphically brilliant, and so different to the normal online shooter. Teamwork really comes into play by providing turrets, transport bays and other little bonuses for your team. Max Payne 3 however, is awful, at least    I picked up Max Payne 3 today along with Starhawk, two games i had eagerly anticipated.

    Starhawk, as soon as i picked it up and played it, i felt it was incredible, graphically brilliant, and so different to the normal online shooter. Teamwork really comes into play by providing turrets, transport bays and other little bonuses for your team. Max Payne 3 however, is awful, at least online... I played it for about a good hour and it just feels horribly sluggish, the aiming system is absolutely atrocious worse than any game ive ever played. Ive played every single Rockstar game and loved them, im a huge GTA fan, and while i didnt come here expecting GTA, i came here expecting a solid reliable game which wont irritate me when playing. The graphics on Max Payne 3 are undeniably brilliant, and i wont contest that the Story may be fantastic too, but as far as online goes, It feels like an old version of modern warfare 2 mixed with a poorly remade RDR aiming system. Whoever said the shooting mechanics on MP3 are great, is a liar, because they are far too slow, especially when looking down your gun.
    Ill keep playing this game to see if it grows on me, but as an avid Rockstar fan and a game that was rated 9/10 by IGN, should it really have to grow on a player? No, Of the two, id rather have spent my money solely on Starhawk    … Expand
  13. coelo
    May 19, 2012
    8
    I ORIGINALLY GAVE THIS GAME A SCORE OF 3!
    I has the number one most helpful negative review, but after playin the multiplayer in this game which is INcREdiBlY ADDicTiVE!!!!! - I have to rewrite my review and raise the score.
    I will still agree that it does not feel like a max payne game, but that is obviously because it is not set in NY. When Rockstar does the NY/NJ levels then I think    I ORIGINALLY GAVE THIS GAME A SCORE OF 3!
    I has the number one most helpful negative review, but after playin the multiplayer in this game which is INcREdiBlY ADDicTiVE!!!!! - I have to rewrite my review and raise the score.

    I will still agree that it does not feel like a max payne game, but that is obviously because it is not set in NY. When Rockstar does the NY/NJ levels then I think they do a fantastic job and it feels like a real Max Payne game. The rest of the Sourh American levels just do not do it for me, but whatever.

    THE REASON to buy this game is because of the multiplayer, which is very strange to say since all other rockstar multiplayer has SUCKED. They've finally hit the nail on the head, because Max Payne 3's multiplayer is the best thing I've played since MW2. I am so hooked on it that I cannot stop. It is challenging and completely awesome. I had ZERO interest in the next GTA because I was really let down by GTA IV, but after playing MP3 multiplayer I cannot wait for GTAV.

    It is NOT perfectly balanced (a good thing because different builds will work on different opponents and maps, unlike COD where it doesn't much matter what gun you use.)

    This blows uncharted 2/3 multiplayer away. Rockstar is a great company and they keep moving forward. I would argue that GTA IV should've had this multiplayer and Rockstar are the kings of milking it, but whatever... They delivered something amazing with MP3.

    Also, once you finally get to the NY levels then it really does feel like the new Max Payne we've been waiting for. In short this game is a must buy if you like a good game of competitive multiplayer, not so much if you want to see Max back in NY doing the same things he did in MP2.

    Overall, I'm very pleased that Rockstar has this franchise now.

    If anyone at Rockstar sees this, there is one major complaint.
    Please fix the seriously long waiting time to join a match. It is not uncommon to have to wait five or ten minutes for the multiplayer map to finally start. The waiting times are WAY too long. I have a T1 connection, it is the game, not me.

    Overall, I am going from giving this game a 3 to an 8 and that is almost entirely due to the multiplayer.
    Thanks Rockstar, good job.    … Expand
  14. TomRoller
    May 19, 2012
    5
    Rockstar mimics successful formula of the original series but eventually fails to capture the charm of the original. Gameplay suffers from shoddy controls and boring levels that offer few tactical choices during shoot-outs. Checkpoints repeatedly put you against a swarm of enemies with barely one cover around . The result is a static encounter or frequent death, the latter resulting inRockstar mimics successful formula of the original series but eventually fails to capture the charm of the original. Gameplay suffers from shoddy controls and boring levels that offer few tactical choices during shoot-outs. Checkpoints repeatedly put you against a swarm of enemies with barely one cover around . The result is a static encounter or frequent death, the latter resulting in tedious backtracking. If there are cutscenes tied to the checkpoint, you will see them again and again without chance to skip.

    Gone is the noir atmosphere and well-penned Marlowesque monologues. New Max is a boring character chasing McGuffins that are difficult to care about. Cutscenes try to evoke the comics-inspired look of the original. The ambitious effort falls short due to poor editing that creates comics panes with random placement at random angles, full of busy effects and senseless dialogue excerpts. An interesting idea ends up feeling pretentious and artificial.

    Despite the sub-par lighting of its in-house Rage engine Rockstar did a good job in making the game visually appealing. The art-direction is tight, cutscenes impress with high-quality mo-cap and Euphoria animation engine makes enemy reaction to your bullets nothing short of spectacular.

    Sadly, the work of programmers, artists and animators has been sabotaged by design and narrative teams. The result is a mediocre shooter that did not manage to replicate the original recipe.

    If you are not familiar with game's predecessors, give it a chance after price drop. Fans of Max Payne and Rockstar's previous work may find themselves thinking that despite the stellar reviews of his clothes this emperor is walking around bare naked.    … Expand
  15. SJ555
    May 19, 2012
    9
    Well ... Rockstar came after a break of 8-9 years and still they did a comeback ...

    I can't say that R* done any kind of huge things in the game ... but its still something which u can't neglect .. they done some one of finest work and kept the tradition of Remedy Alive .. One of the mainstream is game nice story-line and outstanding work by McCaffery as Max , along with some live paced    Well ... Rockstar came after a break of 8-9 years and still they did a comeback ...

    I can't say that R* done any kind of huge things in the game ... but its still something which u can't neglect .. they done some one of finest work and kept the tradition of Remedy Alive .. One of the mainstream is game nice story-line and outstanding work by McCaffery as Max , along with some live paced actions .... According to me i'll give 9/10 ... it is must try as it contain some must try content and especially Rockstar good debut as linearity ... which is well ... good    … Expand
  16. twistidpair
    May 19, 2012
    0
    I am glad to see it is not only me that feels this is not a Max Payne game... It's just another Rockstar romp into mediocre story telling coupled with horrible control mechanics, bad textures and a voice over that never shuts up... why do we need to see spoken text highlighted on screen.

    MP3 (ha!!) is a game that wants to be Splinter Cell Conviction but ends up being a mishmash of bad    I am glad to see it is not only me that feels this is not a Max Payne game... It's just another Rockstar romp into mediocre story telling coupled with horrible control mechanics, bad textures and a voice over that never shuts up... why do we need to see spoken text highlighted on screen.

    MP3 (ha!!) is a game that wants to be Splinter Cell Conviction but ends up being a mishmash of bad elements from every other game made by Rockstar.    … Expand
  17. snowsnows85
    May 19, 2012
    8
    I'm about 3 chapters in and the story is great. I pill poppin' drunk Max Payne is on a new job in Brazil. With all the heat Max needs a drunk or two or three... I can't judge the multiplayer cause I never played it yet, but I don't think from what I seen of people playing it online it will be very popular for very long. Not as good as the story mode. The story mode offers a lot more replay value.
  18. JustinnEveritt
    May 18, 2012
    9
    I've yet to finish my play through of Max Payne 3 and will update my review when I do. That being said, I've had the chance to hunker down for a few hours of the Story Mode and the multiplayer and have a pretty good grasp on what Rockstar Games has done. Max Payne 3 manages to feel like a Max Payne game. While that sentence may seem odd, the truth is, a lot of people (myself included0I've yet to finish my play through of Max Payne 3 and will update my review when I do. That being said, I've had the chance to hunker down for a few hours of the Story Mode and the multiplayer and have a pretty good grasp on what Rockstar Games has done. Max Payne 3 manages to feel like a Max Payne game. While that sentence may seem odd, the truth is, a lot of people (myself included0 where worried that the setting, cover mechanics and updating of controls would cause some pretty big differences between the old and new. I can vouch that this is, however, not the case. The cover mechanics work next to flawlessly. The atmosphere of Sao Paulo is vibrant yet dark. But what about the updated controls? Well, aside from the occasional on rails sections and the cover mechanics, Max Payne 3 controls VERY similarly to his first two outings. Rockstar set out again to crown itself the King of subtlety. The filters flickering across the screen give the player the feeling of distortion one would assume Max is going through with all the pain killers and alcohol in his system. The foreign language that Max doesn't speak not being translated for the player. The occasional slight handed comment towards the meandering players. All of these subtleties are in place to draw the player into the experience. The story is strong, while not the best (or even the most original) ever told, it manages to hold it's own and keep the player intrigued. One would normally expect a title based on one mans distress would not include any form of multiplayer component. But, again, Rockstar pulls no punches and delivers one of the most faced paced, in your face, knock'em dead multiplayer experiences I've ever had the pleasure to enjoy. All in all, Max Payne 3 is a GREAT game well worth the $60 entry fee for fans of the original, fans of shooters or people looking for one of the most graphically gruesome games out there.… Expand
  19. goleafsgo
    May 18, 2012
    10
    Rockstar did it again and delivered what will probably be one of the best games of the year. First of all, for all the people that are bashing the constant cinematic's - I agree it can be tedious, but it does in no way diminish the game experience. If you sit through these cinematic's and actually pay attention you will notice the brilliant writing (in terms of story, characterRockstar did it again and delivered what will probably be one of the best games of the year. First of all, for all the people that are bashing the constant cinematic's - I agree it can be tedious, but it does in no way diminish the game experience. If you sit through these cinematic's and actually pay attention you will notice the brilliant writing (in terms of story, character emotions/actions), my favourite being Max's very dark sense of humour. The actual gameplay itself is where this game truly shines in my opinion; there is no other shooter out there that plays like this and delivers top notch graphics and audio. One of my favourite gameplay elements was the bullet time mechanic, which was executed flawlessly; I've never had so much fun unloading a clip into an enemy in a video game before. The physics also add to the whole realism of the game, for example: when the bullets rip through enemies it feels and looks like it would in an action film (think of the gunfight in the lobby in the first matrix movie). Overall, I think Rockstar truly delivered an excellent shooter with an intriguing cinematic experience, supported by the brilliant scriptwriting, a must-buy if you are a fan of shooters or action films.… Expand
  20. funkamonkey
    May 18, 2012
    5
    Recently I have started to get bored of the current gen games but I had high hopes for Max Payne 3. Got it this morning, popped it into my PS3 played about 2 hours and guess what, bored.
    It's cut scene, shoot a lot of guys, cut scene, shoot a lot of guys, got bored, turned off.
    This isn't a bad game, just a boring game. The cut scenes are depressing, the movement of Max when not in bullet    Recently I have started to get bored of the current gen games but I had high hopes for Max Payne 3. Got it this morning, popped it into my PS3 played about 2 hours and guess what, bored.
    It's cut scene, shoot a lot of guys, cut scene, shoot a lot of guys, got bored, turned off.
    This isn't a bad game, just a boring game. The cut scenes are depressing, the movement of Max when not in bullet time, makes him look like a really bad dancer. Multiplayer grabbed me for 1 hour, again boring. My advice, wait until until the drop in price, it will be £25 in the next 3 or 4 weeks.
    Hopefully Ghost Recon will be a lot more interesting.    … Expand
  21. enjoyablyC
    May 17, 2012
    9
    made an account especially to review this game. I'm a long-time Max Payne fan and this game is simply amazing. I was somewhat worried when I saw the early screens of a bald/fat Max Payne but worry not, the game has a good mix of old Max Payne (through flashback sequences) and the modern-day Max Payne (which is not so bad, once you actually play the game). The writing is still top-notchmade an account especially to review this game. I'm a long-time Max Payne fan and this game is simply amazing. I was somewhat worried when I saw the early screens of a bald/fat Max Payne but worry not, the game has a good mix of old Max Payne (through flashback sequences) and the modern-day Max Payne (which is not so bad, once you actually play the game). The writing is still top-notch stuff, easily on par with the fantastic writing of MP1 and MP2. Max Payne still has his cynical sense of humor which will provide you with a satisfying chuckle in between firefights. There are clues, health pickups (no regenerating health, thank God!) and gun parts hidden in the levels which encourage exploration.

    By far the game's high-point is how damn satisfying the shooting feels. Rockstar's RAGE engine proved time and time again that it was the best physics engine and Max Payne 3 only reinforces that fact. The bodies recoil and fall so damn enjoyably. All of the guns feel power, unique and definitely have an "oomph" to them (my personal favorite is the desert eagle, by far the best representation of a .50 handgun in any video game). You really have to play it to understand fully.

    I played on Hard with free-aim and I found the game to actually be...challenging. That is a good thing. Unlike other games that have health regeneration and such, you have to manage your health and ammo here. There is no breezing through this game, your head has to be in the game or you will be put in your place. Call of Duty kids should stick to auto-aim modes and easier difficulties, even then the concept of having a finite amount of health might confuse and frighten them.

    By far the most surprising thing about Max Payne 3 is how good the multiplayer actually is. When I heard about this at first, I was a little worried. I was expecting a tacked-on, bare bonesand unneeded multilayer component to a good single player game...what I got was an extremely satisfying, well designed and very addictive facet to an already great game. I would have gladly paid 59.99 for this game without the multiplayer, this is just the cherry on top. You can form clans called "crews" and Rockstar has been playing matches against the public as they usually do.

    Now, I might be sounding like a paid advertiser but let me tell you that this game isn't flawless. Most notably, the $20 "multiplayer pass" that unlocks stuff that was locked at launch is unacceptable. I'm surprised that a respect company like Rockstar did something like this. Hopefully GTAV won't follow suit. My other pet peeve was that in the campaign mode, you are sometimes rushed through different sections. As I mentioned before, exploration is encouraged, but sometimes (during "chase" sequences), you get a mission failure for exploring an area for too long. You'd be looking for health pickups and ammo then get a sudden "you failed to chase the guy" type screen. Regardless, Max Payne 3 has definitely proven itself a worthy sequel to two of the most beloved action games of my childhood. Buy this game if you have any interest in a good story-driven shooter.    … Expand
  22. Unbeatable
    May 17, 2012
    10
    Max Payne 3 has probably not been tailormade for sensitive boys like Coelo who wrote in his review that he quit playing because he had to puke and I'm thankful for that. Max isn't a quiter, thats why he even has pain in his name. I myself also wish I'll have to puke in what I have left to play because THAT I would call an interactive experience and its not like I dont make myself pukeMax Payne 3 has probably not been tailormade for sensitive boys like Coelo who wrote in his review that he quit playing because he had to puke and I'm thankful for that. Max isn't a quiter, thats why he even has pain in his name. I myself also wish I'll have to puke in what I have left to play because THAT I would call an interactive experience and its not like I dont make myself puke regularly. So not alone for being a mindblowing game but also for making Coelo vomit I'm awarding 10 points.… Expand
  23. Zilcell
    May 17, 2012
    10
    The graphics and gameplay capabilities are simply top notch. The detailed gameplay plays fantastically because of of good controls and weapons. Visuals are far from being the most important thing, but its worth mentioning for a title that looks so beautiful. How about the story? Well, its got a great script and and the characters are well developed. This is another satisfactory game fromThe graphics and gameplay capabilities are simply top notch. The detailed gameplay plays fantastically because of of good controls and weapons. Visuals are far from being the most important thing, but its worth mentioning for a title that looks so beautiful. How about the story? Well, its got a great script and and the characters are well developed. This is another satisfactory game from Rockstar. Now that this has been released, can you guys start work on Bully 2?… Expand
  24. ZenRobot
    May 17, 2012
    8
    are there enough cut scenes in this game? I was starting to think it was directed by Hideo Kojima. that's all i have to say and am only writing this to make the 150 character limit
  25. Dukay66
    May 17, 2012
    8
    I have never played a Max Payne game before, so I did not have expectations for this game. The story mode is fun and action packed with good voice acting. It feels like an old action movie. The gameplay controls takes a while to get used to though. The multiplayer is why I bought the game though. It is super fun, at least if you can get into a game. They need to fix the matchmaking andI have never played a Max Payne game before, so I did not have expectations for this game. The story mode is fun and action packed with good voice acting. It feels like an old action movie. The gameplay controls takes a while to get used to though. The multiplayer is why I bought the game though. It is super fun, at least if you can get into a game. They need to fix the matchmaking and more people need to buy this game for the multiplayer.… Expand
  26. malditocapitan
    May 17, 2012
    10
    sure that the 360 version is superior because all the multiplatform games are best on the 360 but is ok that the litle ps3 can enjoy max payne 3 so ok the 360 version is incredible but im sure that the ps3 also looks kinda good enjoy the payne
  27. patogas
    May 17, 2012
    1
    the voices are not translated into another language for a triple A unsuitable.
    I buy a pair of binoculars to read subtitles. I will not buy GTA5 by Rockstar.
  28. bigdaddyswoll
    May 16, 2012
    8
    Having a ball playing, but something is wonky on the multi-player. I have ran into way to many instances where ill be point blank unloading into someone and watching the health bar drain. It reaches where no red is showing then all of a sudden stops dropping...the person doesn't die and all of a sudden you reload thinking wtf as your reloading just to see their health refill over aHaving a ball playing, but something is wonky on the multi-player. I have ran into way to many instances where ill be point blank unloading into someone and watching the health bar drain. It reaches where no red is showing then all of a sudden stops dropping...the person doesn't die and all of a sudden you reload thinking wtf as your reloading just to see their health refill over a matter of a second. I have looked and played with most all perks and there are none that would account for someone being at 0 health and then taking 5-10 more shots and not dieing. I have also noticed balistics being a bit out there..have target on someone showing red and start shooting. First few rounds hit then all of a sudden when they get near death miss miss miss. Always just before they die. At which point you run out of bullets and are reloading as they step out and kill you in 1/3 of the rounds you put into them. Be behind a barricade and shooting, you die with it showing the bullets that killed you hitting in places that there is no possible way they could have behind cover. Head shots don't always seem to register either as i have counted multiple times i have only had someones head showing with everything else behind cover, yet after 4 times hitting them they are still alive. Very fun game all the same, but i would love to know if its glitches or someone has figured out how to exploit the game as i'm starting to see it happen more and more.… Expand
  29. Nexus141
    May 16, 2012
    9
    Never became a Max Payne fan since the first two games, but when I tried this out, I was like. WHOA! Max Payne 3 delivered the best of Action games this year. and truly made this year the "Year of the Sequels" Rockstar nailed every aspect of this and the multiplayer, THE MULTIPLAYER is a masterpiece! I can't wait for more Max Payne's in the future if Rockstar will make new MP games. AndNever became a Max Payne fan since the first two games, but when I tried this out, I was like. WHOA! Max Payne 3 delivered the best of Action games this year. and truly made this year the "Year of the Sequels" Rockstar nailed every aspect of this and the multiplayer, THE MULTIPLAYER is a masterpiece! I can't wait for more Max Payne's in the future if Rockstar will make new MP games. And Max Payne 3 made me play the classics so, Congratulations Rockstar for delivering a great Action game!… Expand
  30. 2Guapo
    May 16, 2012
    10
    Never mind the awesome gamplay, nevermind the jaw dropping graphics, this game has an awesome story. Rivals the writing of Hollywood. Thank you R*!

    Red Dead Redemtion 2? ; )
  31. MeltBrown
    May 16, 2012
    9
    Incredible game. It definitely "feels" like Max Payne but with vastly improved graphics and refinements to the gameplay. This a game that centers on story...and it's a great story, well told. Great action sequences and set-pieces. It actually reminds me quite a bit of the Uncharted series. Similar mix of cinematics and action, big set-pieces and similar level of quality and polish. IIncredible game. It definitely "feels" like Max Payne but with vastly improved graphics and refinements to the gameplay. This a game that centers on story...and it's a great story, well told. Great action sequences and set-pieces. It actually reminds me quite a bit of the Uncharted series. Similar mix of cinematics and action, big set-pieces and similar level of quality and polish. I prefer the Uncharted games for their setting, characters, and the exploration factor, but this has a similar "feel" and quality to it. Easily my favorite Rockstar game to date (the 2nd being Read Dead Redemption, and while I love the open world nature of that, I think this is a better game overall). More than anything else, though, it's just plain fun. Having a blast with it.… Expand
  32. TTW107
    May 16, 2012
    10
    Everyone who is giving this bad reviews, you need to go back and think things through. I just finished the single player today, did the first few levels in New York Minute mode and played for a few hours in multiplayer. This is all around one of the finest games I have ever played. The production value in Max Payne 3 is off the charts. Rockstar always takes their time to give qualityEveryone who is giving this bad reviews, you need to go back and think things through. I just finished the single player today, did the first few levels in New York Minute mode and played for a few hours in multiplayer. This is all around one of the finest games I have ever played. The production value in Max Payne 3 is off the charts. Rockstar always takes their time to give quality products and this is no exception. The story isn't anything special but the script is probably the best I've come across. Max's dark humor is hysterical. "I now have a hole in my 2nd favorite drinking arm." Love it. To the people complaining about the blurring and distortions, it's the result of max being drunk and on painkillers all the time, how can you not understand that!? The graphics are unparalleled. I didn't find it repetitive like many people said and I enjoy the constant flow of cutscene, fight, cutscene because it proves that videogames can be a storytellers medium. The multiplayer is surprisingly deep and very very fun, sorry modern warfare 3, I've found another love. Basically I will be playing Max Payne 3 all summer. And so should you.… Expand
  33. Huey_Freeman
    May 16, 2012
    9
    Man on Fire: The Video Game. That's really my assessment of Max Payne 3. It's like Denzel's classic movie but with Max Payne and a different kidnapped girl. All the beats are pretty much the same but the game kicks bareknuckle ass. I booted up the game and started playing on Hard difficulty. Having not played Max Payne in a while it took a while to adjust to the controls and the AI wasMan on Fire: The Video Game. That's really my assessment of Max Payne 3. It's like Denzel's classic movie but with Max Payne and a different kidnapped girl. All the beats are pretty much the same but the game kicks bareknuckle ass. I booted up the game and started playing on Hard difficulty. Having not played Max Payne in a while it took a while to adjust to the controls and the AI was pretty tough to beat at first on this difficulty so I felt frustrated and wasn't really into the game. But as this train gets chugging along man oh man does it NEVER STOP. And I mean it, the relentless pace of Max Payne 3 is without question insane. If there's not a cutscene going on then bet your ass there is a balls to the wall shootout or a ingeniously designed action set piece to dazzle your eyes and boggle your mind. It's like Rockstar is trying to channel there inner Naughty Dog with this effort. And for the most part they succeed. Where they fail, is in the graphics for me. And before you jump my bones, let me explain. Alot of the game is ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL. Particularly Max Payne's rendering himself and some of the locales (like when Max switches to that Hawaiin shirt and battles gangs in the slums....GORGEOUS. However, there are FAR TOO MANY framerate jumps and poor textures in this game. And some of the animations look just as bad as they did on GTA4. And that was made five years ago. And the nonstop shootouts CAN get just a tad repetitive although they are a blast to play. Aside from that, where Max Payne 3 really shines is in it's characterization and character development of it's lead hero. This is INCREDIBLY well done. You literally feel like you're in the mind of Max. You feel his pain, his frustration, his addiction, his regret, his inner demons and turmoul. You feel sorry for the guy. So when he kicks ass, you're rooting for him. That's one helluva accomplishment. The flashbacks are brilliantly done as well. All in all the game is seriously fun. The second best shooter I've played this Gen behind the Uncharted series and another GREAT game in the Rockstar library. These guys are just ALWYAS delivering the goods.… Expand
  34. Wezite
    May 16, 2012
    10
    Rockstar has delivered another epic game. Unlike some other titles out there this promises what it delivers! A lot effort has gone into the presentation of this title. It has great graphics, gameplay and AI.
    If your a Rockstar games fan then you will love this.
  35. gamebasher82
    May 16, 2012
    10
    I love this game i was playing non stop on max payne 3 for 34+ hours and playing multiplayer. It ha sbeen nine years since the last max payne but it has been worth the wait trust me
  36. Pieo
    May 16, 2012
    10
    IMHO, Max Payne was always way ahead of it's time, so much so, it was the main flaw of the entire franchise. There was not good enough technology out, at the times of release of the first two offerings.Thankfully, technology has finally caught up, & MP3 revels in the Matrix - esque Bullet Vision, that has finally been utilized to it's full potential. I will never tire of soaring throughIMHO, Max Payne was always way ahead of it's time, so much so, it was the main flaw of the entire franchise. There was not good enough technology out, at the times of release of the first two offerings.Thankfully, technology has finally caught up, & MP3 revels in the Matrix - esque Bullet Vision, that has finally been utilized to it's full potential. I will never tire of soaring through the air, in Slow-Motion, firing round after round at multiple foes. The visuals are breath-taking, the story is enthralling, & the Game Play is impeccable. The Crown Jewel of the franchise.… Expand
  37. Lambdaboy_ro
    May 16, 2012
    10
    Incredible!
    The multiplayer is amazing, it gives a new perspective to Max Payne 3. The social club's emblem editor it's cool, It's like photoshop i'm a art director and i appreciate this little detail.
  38. maoragai
    May 15, 2012
    10
    this is the best game of 2012 till now
    i always loved max payne and this game its awesome,the gameplay,the guns,and the multiplayer!!!!!! The graphics is awesome! The bullet time in the multi player is a MASTERPIECE.
  39. Proteus
    May 15, 2012
    10
    "I had a hole in my second favorite drinking arm" says Max at one point. Gotta love it...really I mean as you are running around and shooting and trying to protect your friend and save the girl....you get lots of laughs on top of it...how much better does it get really? I love this game...it has a certain minimalist simplicity...very appealing. Great story. Everything works. Nice sets and"I had a hole in my second favorite drinking arm" says Max at one point. Gotta love it...really I mean as you are running around and shooting and trying to protect your friend and save the girl....you get lots of laughs on top of it...how much better does it get really? I love this game...it has a certain minimalist simplicity...very appealing. Great story. Everything works. Nice sets and action pieces. Highly recommended.… Expand
  40. boothmonster
    May 15, 2012
    9
    I love how coelo brings up Alan wake in this review what the hell does that have to do with MP3 and I think this distorted effects adds to the way Max sees and feels things because of his addictions that's just my opinion but its a beautifully done game in every way and is in all departments on par with blockbusters like uncharted if you like action and a great story check this out
  41. fearless47
    May 15, 2012
    10
    Don't believe and negative reviews about Max Payne. Story and multiplayer is well made, controllers easy to use. Just because it's 3rd person doesn't mean it will play like uncharted 3 or other similar games.
  42. BOSTONJOHN32
    May 15, 2012
    10
    Max payne 3 had some large shoes to fill with the hype as well as gameplay from the prior installments.
    It Delivers on both ends and then some.. I picked up the game at midnight and played for about 6 hours and woke up to about 6 more to complete the campaign but to be honest this is the kind of game which im in no hurry to finish it, not wanting the exp to end, yes it is that fun and    Max payne 3 had some large shoes to fill with the hype as well as gameplay from the prior installments.
    It Delivers on both ends and then some.. I picked up the game at midnight and played for about 6 hours and woke up to about 6 more to complete the campaign but to be honest this is the kind of game which im in no hurry to finish it, not wanting the exp to end, yes it is that fun and pretty...Lets get to whats important.

    Gameplay is very good, although i dont feel like i have complete control of max as far as "sandbox" elements but i do feel like sometimes an open world can bring a lot of chores and further buzz killing the tempo , well thats not the case here its a glorious ride from the start to end without any dull moments and this is where the game shines, the tempo of the game is perfect. One gripe some have had were the cut scenes which i really thought were brilliantly done but it does feel like sometimes it does take max out of my control at very engaging moments in the game but its done to keep the player "involved" emotionally w/ the story and max and its almost mind boggling to watch how seemless the cutscenes transition to gameplay, being hard to tell which is which at times because the graphics are just that good also.. The controls are also done well, never did i feel i had to fight max to shoot or move except for rare moments when i slo mo dive into a table for example but other than that its bullet time is "honest" to the likes of the other max payne games and its still awesome how i can also slow mo the kill cam and continue to fire bullets while only seeing the "bad guys" body getting filled with holes, so awesome..

    The music/score is out of this world, is close to perfect in regards to the bgm following/matching whats going on in the game, when its getting chaotic the music does as well, heavy drums and beats. somber moments likewise but with more mellow , softer tones and i just cant say enough about the music. I am very impressed.. The graphics are top notch and so is the story, one can not argue this. I was amazed how good the story "peaked" and kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to check for every clue, listen to every word, laughed and felt sorrow, the story was written with care, sooo good..

    I have to get back to this game, lol.. Trust one thing, this is worth the investment..

    Many hours worth of campaign, arcade mode and a brilliant multiplayer which is packed with fresh ideas, fun, fun, fun.. This game will bring hours of enjoyment and eye candy, a game worthy of retail, i can not say this often enough but Max Payne 3 is packed with quality..

    I will edit this after im done feeding my gaming fix w/ max ,lol.. I promise you will enjoy the Max Payne 3 exp, every step of the way7...
    It is not perfect and there are not many games which deserve a perfect score.. This comes close, i would give a 9.5 if possible..    … Expand
  43. GenuineOpinion
    May 15, 2012
    10
    Wow, I wasn't really expecting an old school max payne, but this comes pretty dang close without actually stepping over any lines. I'm pretty happy with it thus far.
  44. RUST
    May 15, 2012
    8
    A string of ill chosen Portuguese paints the room blue as 45s are drawn, nerves are tested and Max Payne slips into his world of violence, redemption and vice as easily as he would an old slipper. Is this the Max Payne game I have been waiting for? All that and more. A fascinating character study on one of gaming's most under appreciated specimen. If the campaign does get your emotionsA string of ill chosen Portuguese paints the room blue as 45s are drawn, nerves are tested and Max Payne slips into his world of violence, redemption and vice as easily as he would an old slipper. Is this the Max Payne game I have been waiting for? All that and more. A fascinating character study on one of gaming's most under appreciated specimen. If the campaign does get your emotions running high then I don't know what will. Despite the sacrifice of freedom, usually a staple of any Rockstar title, this gem offers more than mindless indulgence; a chance to play a real cinematic master class. Oh, and there is a multiplayer in there too for those of us who are interested.… Expand
  45. Awais1
    May 15, 2012
    10
    I was worried this game might disappoint me bcoz of the changes but it didnt it was actually really gud Gr8 Visual and cinematics heart pumping action and Beautiful kill cams and bullet time the story is not so bad either but something that was missing was the atmosphere from previous games even though this game had a gr8 cinematic atmosphere but not the same as the first two games theI was worried this game might disappoint me bcoz of the changes but it didnt it was actually really gud Gr8 Visual and cinematics heart pumping action and Beautiful kill cams and bullet time the story is not so bad either but something that was missing was the atmosphere from previous games even though this game had a gr8 cinematic atmosphere but not the same as the first two games the same intensity but still this was a gr8 game really impressed by multiplayer i wudnt say rockstar has made a perfect game nut nothing perfect… Expand
  46. Parafira
    May 15, 2012
    10
    Nice Nice Nice!!!
    I am loving this game, especially the Multi player, it is so much fun. The graphics is awesome! The bullet time in the multi player is a MASTERPIECE.
  47. silentshade
    May 15, 2012
    10
    Max Payne is always been one of my most favourite franchises and this sequel is the best of the picking, with slick visuals, great shootouts and SLOW MOTION. You will have a lot of fun and with absence of loading screens it brings a breath of fresh air to cinematic games. With about 12 hours single player and a ton of replayability as well as two arcade type modes you won't get bored onMax Payne is always been one of my most favourite franchises and this sequel is the best of the picking, with slick visuals, great shootouts and SLOW MOTION. You will have a lot of fun and with absence of loading screens it brings a breath of fresh air to cinematic games. With about 12 hours single player and a ton of replayability as well as two arcade type modes you won't get bored on your own. If you do then you have multi-player which is amazingly fun and challenging. There is not regenerative health in the single player and it is hard so if you are expecting a call of duty, look elsewhere.… Expand
  48. filmmaniac111
    May 15, 2012
    10
    I've been waiting for years. Max Payne 3 is a fantastic game by Rockstar, the company that has been on quite a roll for the past few years. However, their shooting mechanics have never been that great. MP3 changes that, because the mechanics are excellent. Bullet Time and shoot-dodge both work the same way as before, but even better. MP3 has a solid story, great voice acting, prettyI've been waiting for years. Max Payne 3 is a fantastic game by Rockstar, the company that has been on quite a roll for the past few years. However, their shooting mechanics have never been that great. MP3 changes that, because the mechanics are excellent. Bullet Time and shoot-dodge both work the same way as before, but even better. MP3 has a solid story, great voice acting, pretty graphics, and amazing animations. Dual-wielding has never been better! It's not open world like RDR or GTA 4, nor will it win as many awards, but gameplay-wise, it's much ahead.… Expand
  49. Crytekz
    May 15, 2012
    10
    The narrative is Dark,gritty and very real.
    Very rarely has a game ever in-grossed me so deeply into the story,Without Giving anything away that's not in the first hour of gameplay....
    The story follows him after the last two games where he is addicted to pain killers ,alcohol,aged ,beaten up and bloody.He travels to Brazil when he is offered a job to protect a group of people that happen    The narrative is Dark,gritty and very real.
    Very rarely has a game ever in-grossed me so deeply into the story,Without Giving anything away that's not in the first hour of gameplay....
    The story follows him after the last two games where he is addicted to pain killers ,alcohol,aged ,beaten up and bloody.He travels to Brazil when he is offered a job to protect a group of people that happen to get kidnapped during a **** party that causes a dramatic turn of events continuing the story ...
    Max Paynes 3's gameplay true to it's predecessors' formula,highly Cinematic,bloody and fasted paced gun-play Helped by the new Rockstar Rage physics engine.
    Max payne is Graphicly one of the best games around.. Also Multiplayer is good fun with the mates' and is very addictive.
    10/10    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Best PS3 Game of 2012
7
#7 Most Discussed PS3 Game of 2012
12
#12 Most Shared PS3 Game of 2012

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 31
  3. Negative: 0 out of 31
  1. PlaySense
    Jul 9, 2012
    90
    An engaging story, extremely satisfying shoot-outs phenomenal graphics turn Max Payne 3 undoubtedly into one of the best shooters of 2012. It's a shame that Rockstar doesn't seem to know where to place their checkpoints.
    Read full review
  2. Gamer.no
    Jun 29, 2012
    90
    Max Payne 3 brings back the depressed and trigger-happy former cop, in a new and surprisingly entertaining chapter of his life. Rockstar has brought the story to São Paulo, equipped Max with a few new tricks and made everything look a bit more polished and updated. The addition of a well-rounded multiplayer proves to be a stroke of genious that adds loads of extra hours of fun gameplay.
    Read full review
  3. Eurogamer Portugal
    Jun 22, 2012
    70
    Max Payne 3 is an excellent farewell, but ultimately it's not as relevant as it was in the past. It has nothing to teach to the "new" shooters.
    Read full review
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