Max Payne daily review [Archive]

Joe Siegler

09-19-2001, 03:18 PM

Avid Gamer
http://www.avidgamer.net/pc/review.asp?game=maxpayne

Rating: 94%

The gameplay factor leaves almost no room for improvement. The ideas that were implemented simply amaze me.

~~~

Star Tribune

(no rating)

[Max Payne] is more than a hardboiled detective story. Along the way, Max will bridge the game between Marlowe, a character from the 1940s and '50s, and modern sci-fi films ("The Matrix") and gritty cop movies ("L.A. Confidential"). How can so many genres meet in one computer game? Because Max Payne may be the best interactive shooting game ever marketed. Even the structure of the game is intriguing...and ensures that it will spawn hordes of copycats.

Joe Siegler

09-24-2001, 11:05 AM

GamesFirst
http://www.gamesfirst.com/reviews/al/Max_Payne/maxpayne.htm

Rating: 5 of 5 Stars

By adopting a movie-enhanced storyline and a third-person perspective, Remedy is doing something that really hasn't been attempted before. Max Payne gets high marks for its revolutionary advances in gameplay and overarching narrative. Well worth the wait, I recommend you buy it today!

Famous

09-24-2001, 11:23 AM

You can make a T-shirt with anything on it that you want. All you have to do is get some of the iron-on printer paper, print a mirror image of the design, and iron it on a shirt.

Keep in mind that you can't sell them, though.

Famous

[ 09-24-2001: Message edited by: Famous ]

Joe Siegler

09-27-2001, 01:47 PM

GameHelper
http://www.gamehelper.com/?Info=?App_Module=ARTICLES&ID=68

Rating: 92%

With a great story driving the title, this is the best action movie you won't see on the big screen this summer! Go get it!

mysteryperfecta

09-27-2001, 01:58 PM

Until I started seeing a list of Max Payne reviews, and seeing the reviews list on BluesNews, I never knew how many sites out their reviewed games! I've never heard of most of them. What separates joe blow gameplayer's review site from a professional site? It's getting harder and harder to tell.

Not that it makes one person's opinion more or less valuable than anothers. Well, maybe sometimes.

Joe Siegler

09-29-2001, 12:14 AM

GameGenie
http://www.gamegenie.com/reviews/pc/maxpayne.shtml

Rating:* 5 of 5 Stars

Ever since The Matrix appeared in theatres, the gaming public has been clamoring for a computer offering which features the same shooting action and slow-mo sequences. Your prayers have been answered, Spanky, because we have Max Payne. Bullet Time is awesome to behold...To complete the package, a very good story (best since Half Life) drives the action. I actually felt bad for Max after learning the entire story.

Much buzz was produced from the sporadically released screenshots and movies, but let me tell you, folks: they don't do the game justice. Each level is an exercise in beauty and graphical realism.

Joe Siegler

10-01-2001, 01:02 PM

Intelligamer
http://www.intelligamer.com/action/maxpayne/maxpayne.asp

Rating:* 9/10

The AI, when playing to full potential, is exceptional. Enemies will use variable weaponry, throwing grenades and then opening up with slug throwers for example, retreat to cover, dive and slide to fire, and generally keep you on your toes.

The action is often intense, with gun fight after gun fight in the best action movie tradition...with a whole series of realistic locations to fight in. Pacing is excellent.

But the game isn't all action, it's also got enough attitude for six games. For any real fan of action movies or action games Max Payne is simply a must buy title...It's blend of innovative action sequences, generally exceptional level design and enemy AI, and top notch, gritty film noir story telling make it the stand-out action game of 2001 so far...it's only real flaw is it leaves you wanting much, much more.

Gatinater

10-01-2001, 01:58 PM

His hands are all messed up. his fingers don't even go inside the M10 trigger loops. And his finger is so far in the beretta trigger loop that it would be impossible to fire the gun. But that's ok since it's the first 3RD person model to actually have fingers. It still makes me laugh to when I look at his action figure hands.

Joe Siegler

10-02-2001, 05:36 PM

TFH Gaming
http://www.tfhgaming.com/payne.php

Rating:* 5 of 5 Stars

The opening to the game is very disturbing and you get to play through it rather than simply watch it like a movie intro. The level of detail in the graphics is amazing...Many objects in each room are usable and you can even switch on a TV and watch some humorous programs like a funny soap opera or an insane cartoon.

Overall Max has totally lived up to the hype. I think I have just witnessed an evolution in the shooter genre.

Joe Siegler

10-12-2001, 11:41 AM

LoadedInc.com
http://www.loadedinc.com/reviews/MaxPayne.php

Rating: 9/10

Action gamers have been clamoring for something different in the world of shooters and Max Payne seems to be supplying the right medicine with its tightly woven storytelling and cinematic gameplay. Overall, puzzles are kept to a reasonable level and tend to be very logical and actually fun to figure out. Make no mistake about it, this game is designed for the action sect and it doesn't stray from its winning formula.

Max Payne is the leading candidate for Action Game of the Year. It's cinematic approach and strong storytelling are first-rate and should prove to be irresistible for any action gamer. The last game that had me this locked in was Half-Life, which is not bad company to run with. This game does prove that Payne is good!

Mark Novak

10-12-2001, 10:35 PM

Where are the reviews that tell about the video problems in certain video cards? The reviews on the infinite glitches?

I understand the convenience of picking and choosing the reviews that praise Max Payne to the high heavens.

Furthermore, are you showing us these reviews to sell us on the game? Our money is already in your pocket - we've spent the $50. If I find time, I'll try to pick up a review thats not praising the game and post it here just as you are posting the links. I hate to accuse you of this, but yes, you will be biased towards YOUR product. We have a right to see both sides of the coin.

RollingBrass

10-12-2001, 10:39 PM

Feel free to look for those reviews. The truth is, there aren't many. Probably no more than 5 or 10.
As it's been said, people having problems with the game are a minority. The ratio of glowing to bad reviews proves this.

Mark Novak

10-12-2001, 10:51 PM

Well, I'm actually far too lazy to actually go fetch these bad reviews. But still - I disaprove of how Joe is proving his game is great by posting countless reviews of how great it is.

I'd also like to add an insight: Those reviews are a form of criticizm whether good or bad. Criticizm follows each other's trend. That sort of business is almost binary - either everyone gives it good reviews, or every damns it to hell. I worded that poorly forgive me if you don't understand what I'm trying to say.

Mugg

10-14-2001, 04:07 PM

Joe has the right to post links to whatever reviews he wants to. He does not have to post links to reviews that are overcritical (and some are just plain wrong in their criticism) of Max Payne.

If you want to find the cons of the game, do some research. Joe on the other hand, will point you out to the good parts of Max Payne free of charge.

Joe Siegler

10-17-2001, 02:02 PM

Adrenaline Vault
http://www.avault.com/reviews/review_temp.asp?game=payne

Rating: 9/10 (Seal of Excellence award)

Taking a cue from The Matrix, Max Payne employs the stylized camera movement known as "Bullet-Time" where all action is slowed down to a point that you can actually see bullets whizzing through the air. This mode is not just for artistic license; players can trigger Bullet-Time to their advantage to perform incredible stunts and feats of agility, all while aiming and turning in real time to take down an uneven proportion of enemies.

As an action title borrowing elements from popular sources, Max Payne employs several instances of in-jokes that some players will be quick to recognize. There are a bunch of spoken and visual references to John Woo, Chow Yun Fat, The Professional, The Killer, and even Reservoir Dogs. Like in the spy game No One Lives Forever, some of the guards will talk among themselves while waiting for you to show up, quipping about action films, favorite actors, and even discussing the concept of Bullet-Time in length.

Max Payne is one of those memorable titles that people will be talking about for years to come. Its impressive graphics, gripping storyline, and fun use of Bullet-Time action elevates the game to the current standard that most others should aspire to.

Mark Novak

10-17-2001, 10:24 PM

Joe3DR simply ignores us and continues the reviews. Its almost comical.

RollingBrass

10-17-2001, 11:38 PM

It's almost comical how you think that everyone should hate the game just because you are having problems with it.

Please....look for those negative reviews.
Hell...one of them slammed the game for having "badly implemented and laggy multiplayer" before it was edited. LOL

[ 10-17-2001: Message edited by: RollingBrass ]

Joe Siegler

10-18-2001, 03:53 PM

OCAddiction.com
http://www.ocaddiction.com/snapshot/games/maxpayne/

(no rating)

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the couple of weeks I have spent playing this game. Every time I fired it up, I was anxious to continue the saga and see what new and exciting stories opened up before me. I've seen quite a few folks say that this game is somewhat short but I would have to disagree. I played it for a few hours every other day for nearly 2 weeks and really had a good time with it, not feeling as if I was cheated when I finally finished the game.

If your looking for a satisfying 3rd person single player shooter that will immerse you in a world of crime, deceit and luscious graphics. Look no further than Max Payne.

Joe Siegler

10-25-2001, 05:02 PM

PC Zone
Read Review Here (http://www.pczone.co.uk/guest/php3/openframe.php3?page=http://www.pczone.co.uk/guest/newreviews/printrev.php3?id=33876)

Rating:* 9/10

Rather than gratuitous and messy, violence in Max Payne is handled in a stylish and - dare I say - artful way. Unlike Soldier Of Fortune, or indeed Kingpin, enemies never come apart, even if a grenade does land at their feet. In this respect, the game characters come across more as actors rather than computer-generated hand-cannon fodder...the screen is filled, not only with mists of blood from arcing bodies and flying lead, but wooden splinters from erupting crates, dust clouds from bullets impacting in plaster, shattered glass and even shreds of paper (another Woo trademark). In short, your eyes are drawn, not only to the spectacularly animated death scenes of your enemies, but an entire composition of framed devastation and chaos. Throughout its all-too-brief stay on your hard drive, Max Payne is, for the duration, an entertaining blast. It is proof at long last that a third-person action game can - and does - work, that they can be fun to play rather than frustrating.

Max Payne is innovative and highly polished, a game of wild ideas that has been properly focused to entertain - not to entertain forever, but certainly until the next big thing (probably 3D Realms' own Duke Nukem Forever) comes along.

Joe Siegler

10-31-2001, 10:41 AM

Battle-Fields.com
http://www.battle-fields.com/gamesreviews/max.shtml

Rating: 5 of 5 Stars

To conclude, Max Payne manages to rise above what it actually is as a game through the sheer class and style of its execution and presentation.

~~~

College Gamers
http://www.collegegamers.com/reviews/maxpayne.html

Rating: 95%

Everything from the sound effects, to the background music, to the voice work is flawless. It's got plenty of style, and enough action to have you hopped-up on adrenalin for hours after playing.

Airtraffic

10-31-2001, 11:19 AM

Some other reviews;
<blockquote>quote:<hr>exPLIcIt from Cakovec on 10/21/01 9:36:37 AM
Others rated this review: 1/4 -- Number of Ratings: 1
Summary:

Overall: 3
Gameplay: 3
Graphics: 4
Sound: 4

System:

CPU: Athlon Thunderbird 900
RAM: 256
Video: Asus Riva TNT 2

General/Summary: Isn't it fascinating how the games have evolved since the first shooter? We could say yes, and it would be only partly true. 3D Realms is a company that create games such as Duke3D, SW and Terminal Velocity. All great games, so it wasn't a suprise and quite the expectations that Max Payne is going to be great, no, more than that, almost godlike.We've seen all kinds of over-hyped garbage and promised not to believe in such words unless the game really gives what it should. But hey, who carse, right, Max Payne is here, so go and buy it. If you do so, you might get very dissapointed.
Gameplay: I thought game will bash with loads of new stuff, animation and so... The only new thing here is so called slowmotion time whatever, that looks kinda like Matrix. Bullet time combo is only new thing in game (you can even see bullets comming at you). Everything else is seen, seen..
Even that time crap gets boring after using it 1000 times. Enemies are ... stupid, AI sucks but hey, that's a standard, right? Weapons standard.
I'm telling you, when you first see Max Payne, you'l love it, but only for a day or two.

Graphics: Engine is new stuff, but they used it poorly. We've all seen what that engine is capable of in WinMark 2001. They didnt work hard enough on graphics detail, but it looks fine.

Sound: Really, nothing new in here, but sound is great in bullet time combo.<hr></blockquote>

Airtraffic

10-31-2001, 11:34 AM

review at gamitopia (http://www.gamitopia.com/reviews/games/pc/m/maxpayne/)
<blockquote>quote:<hr>Overall 4.75/10
Replay value kills this game. I wish I could just pay a few dollars to rent it for a couple of nights.<hr></blockquote>

Funny how all the good reviews are from sites that sell the game images/icons/shocked.gif

[ 10-31-2001: Message edited by: Airtraffic ]

biXen

10-31-2001, 11:42 AM

<blockquote>quote:<hr>Originally posted by Airtraffic:
review at gamitopia (http://www.gamitopia.com/reviews/games/pc/m/maxpayne/)

Funny how all the good reviews are from sites that sell the game images/icons/shocked.gif

[ 10-31-2001: Message edited by: Airtraffic ]<hr></blockquote>

Yeah, I'm sure about 100 gamesites sell that game. I'm also pretty sure that the 91% average user rating by people are by people that sell it too ... in their private homes or something images/icons/rolleyes.gif

Airtraffic

10-31-2001, 11:44 AM

heres another (http://www.arstechnica.com/reviews/01q3/maxpayne/maxpayne-2.html) one.

<blockquote>quote:<hr>My score is determined this way:
Graphics, production and style: 10
Gameplay: 8 (bumped up from a 7 by bullet time)
Content and value: 4
Total score (rounded down): 7 out of 10<hr></blockquote>

Airtraffic

10-31-2001, 11:59 AM

Yikes..some player reviews at gamespot

one (http://gamespot.com/gamespot/stories/readers/0,10986,513837,00.html)
two (http://gamespot.com/gamespot/stories/readers/0,10986,514126,00.html)
three (http://gamespot.com/gamespot/stories/readers/0,10986,510783,00.html)
four (http://gamespot.com/gamespot/stories/readers/0,10986,514988,00.html)

Need more images/icons/rolleyes.gif images/icons/grin.gif

Theseus314

10-31-2001, 01:24 PM

Whats your point? Truth is all reputable review sites (bar one) gave 90%+ reviews. That makes the game godlike doesn't it?

Mugg

10-31-2001, 09:33 PM

that review you posted, airtraffic, sounds like someone talking out of their ass. How can they call duke nukem a great game and not call max payne a great game? They're both shooters although DN is more futuristic and levels less pointed to go in one direction but is that all that makes a game? No offense to you, I know you're finding differing opinions but i have issues with that one.

Airtraffic

10-31-2001, 11:17 PM

<blockquote>quote:<hr>Originally posted by Mugg:
that review you posted, airtraffic, sounds like someone talking out of their ass. How can they call duke nukem a great game and not call max payne a great game? They're both shooters although DN is more futuristic and levels less pointed to go in one direction but is that all that makes a game? No offense to you, I know you're finding differing opinions but i have issues with that one.<hr></blockquote>

Hey don't climb all over me,i was just showing that not everyone loves MP.
I dought showing this in this forum will change anything since 99.99% of the readers in here allready have the game.
Which leads me to wonder why Joe!? images/icons/confused.gif is still *pimping* the high reviews in here on a colosial level images/icons/shocked.gif
On a personal note,i didn't like Max Payne after the first hour or so but i don't go around slamming it either...to each there own images/icons/smile.gif

Joe Siegler

11-01-2001, 12:32 AM

Because I was asked to. Can we please knock it off with the discussions and the attacks on "pimping"? If you wrote a computer game that was successful, you'd do exactly the same thing.

Please don't make me take this thread to my posts only. Please let it die gracefully. If you want to bitch at me, take it to email or PM, please.

Guest

11-01-2001, 02:39 AM

Airtraffic, can you quit catching my eye on the forum front page. Using you as a Bloodhound is going to get me into a lot of trouble.

...

Here's my take on reviews from a general perspective and not aimed at any target in particular. Any offence taken is in the eye of the beholder.

I see an awful lot of reviews with marks in the ninety plus percentages. After critically evaluating the games I played I came to the conclusion that the quickest way to get a clear picture of a games true score was to subtract ninety from whatever percentage score was given and use the remainder as a mark out of ten. This method held true for some time and assisted my examination of review quality not just the quality of game under review.

On the whole I find the breakdown and weighting schemes of many reviews to be flawed. All to often there is a bias towards the latest hot thing and a year or two later the real truth begins to creep out as old games are no longer money earners and the need to keep the money train moving remains.

My own personal mark for Max Payne using my own crude measurement scheme came in at sixty-five percent. I was tempted to give it fifty five. Bullet-time, particle effects, photorealistic textures, all combined to push the score higher than it would otherwise have been. I would judge my own work no differently.

People may bitch and moan about the score I've given it. If you can suggest a better marking scheme (by that I mean critically accurate) than the one I use feel free to suggest one.

I have no particular problem with what Joe posts in here as regards reviews. He's only posting within internal company guidelines and shouldn't be held responsible beyond his own contribution to internal debate, whatever that is.

The two niggles I have are clarification of what the company policy towards promoting reviews and the discussion of reviews is.

If I had faith that the game-media was doing its job properly I wouldn't have to post comment on any of this. images/icons/rolleyes.gif

- Dist images/icons/smile.gif rtedReality

[ 11-01-2001: Message edited by: DistortedReality ]

Joe Siegler

11-01-2001, 10:40 AM

Game Industry News
http://www.gameindustry.com/reviews/010827maxpayne.asp

Rating: 5 of 5 Stars

What really pulls you into the game is the plot. Yes, Max Payne has a real plot. Not only that, but you are fully integrated into the story line. [Y]ou have to give kudos to the development staff for not only providing a motive as to why your character has gone vigilante in a quest to kill the head of the illegal drug syndicate, but also letting you experience the troubling event for yourself.

[Max Payne is] easily the best in its category.

~~~

3DGN
http://www.3dgn.com/gaming/reviews/action/max_payne/

Rating: 100%

Guest

11-01-2001, 04:34 PM

Hey Joe, look what I found! images/icons/smile.gif

<blockquote>quote:<hr>I hate to admit this, but I didn't understand why he was so blunt all the time. I was so wrapped up in myself and becoming a bit of a pre-madonna. It was only later that I realized Joe was just being honest with us and trying to help us make the best game possible.

Andrew Edwardson - Programmer, Wacky Wheels.
<hr></blockquote>

It goes to show that Joe's pimping of glee-reviews doesn't mean he can't make his own mind up about Max Payne or is stopping you from doing so either. Add a link to any informed and insightful reviews you think he's missed. images/icons/wink.gif That's much better than taking chunks out of him.

- Dist images/icons/smile.gif rtedReality

Guest

11-06-2001, 11:10 AM

i dont understand why people get mad that joe posts links to good reviews of max payne.
A) its their website
B) some people may still be deciding if they should buy it
C) its a good game, why not?

why are people so offended by them selling their product?

Homoludens

11-06-2001, 01:31 PM

Well, he could post all the reviews that gave the game a low score, but it would be so short that the board wouldn't even take it. images/icons/tongue.gif

Joe Siegler

11-09-2001, 04:52 PM

Gone Gold
http://www.gonegold.com/reviews/maxpayne/

Rating:* 96%

A sign of the great writing is how quickly and easily we accept Max as an extension of ourselves. His dialogue and narration is picture perfect, from the pop-culture references to the wonderful Sam Spade mannerisms. All he has suffered is so expertly woven into the narrative that players will feel very much like they are part of the story. Max is an amazingly well developed character, a tormented, furious monstrosity who is totally out of touch with the man he used to be.

Max Payne has attention to detail the likes of which we've never seen before. You're not going to see repetitive tiles or texture maps here; the city is uniquely detailed throughout. Better still, Max can interact with his environment - turning water taps on, blowing away obstructions, and so forth. Everything seems original, right down to the graffiti on the walls.

This is a spectacular game, well deserving of the accolades it's been getting.

Joe Siegler

11-11-2001, 12:08 AM

The WarGamer
http://www.wargamer.com/reviews/max_payne_main.asp

Rating: 5 of 5 Stars

To put this as simply as possible, Max Payne is the best crafted and polished 3D action shooter to ever be released. The game delivers on every fancy feature, and completely engrosses the gamer with intoxicating gameplay. This is a must have for any action gamer.

Joe Siegler

11-19-2001, 11:44 AM

Computer Games (Oct. 2001 issue)
*
Rating:* 4 of 5 Stars ("Excellent")
*
[Max Payne] succeeds in making dozens of repetitive gunfights fun in a way no game developer ever has.* This is chiefly accomplished through the use of 'billet-time' gameplay, whereby the player can kick into slow motion on a whim...it also looks amazing:* muzzle flashes leap about, bullets crawl by, fires and explosions all but stand still...it's hard not to hold your breath.* Don't be surprised if you start reaching for the bullet-time button in every action game that you play after you've finished Max Payne.
*
Remedy has created a beautiful game full of memorable moments.* If John Woo were to make a game, this is what it would be like.

Joe Siegler

11-21-2001, 02:12 PM

GameSpot (Australia)
Review Here (http://www.zdnet.com.au/gamespot/pcgames/reviews/story/0,2000013604,20258499,00.htm)

Rating: 91%

It is an intense story, which may be a large part of Max's appeal. The fact that Max is absolutely on the edge almost seems to logically explain why he has such a supernatural intensity during gunfights. Seldom do plots as adult and mature as this make it into triple-A titles, as developers are often concerned these days that adult-oriented games will lose their mass-market appeal. It is indeed fortunate for gamers that Remedy has had the courage to make such a bold move in such an increasingly conservative industry. The results truly speak for themselves - Max Payne is a highly innovative, atmospheric and exciting game to play. So high is the quality of storytelling in fact, that towards the end of the game when the gameplay and graphics begin to lose their initial impact, the story will likely be the motivation to keep playing, as the continuous twists, turns and plot developments will keep you guessing right until the very end.

Max Payne is an extremely solid, at times revolutionary, title. While we will undoubtedly see very similar "bullet time" effects in the upcoming games based on the film The Matrix, Max Payne managed to get there first. With style, class and panache leveraged in the most impressive graphics engine on the market this year. Highly recommended.

Joe Siegler

11-27-2001, 12:28 AM

ECTS 2001: Awards

PC Game of the Year (by website visitors) - Max Payne

The awards, known officially as "Stars", have been announced today in London, and should, by all respects, represent the best of the best in terms of ECTS coolness.

Joe Siegler

11-28-2001, 03:21 PM

Game Club Central
http://www.gameclubcentral.com/reviews/maxpaynereview.asp
*
Rating:* 9/10
*
Max Payne has exploded (literally) on the scene with an excellent story, unparallel graphics, and gameplay that is so simple, yet so innovative, that many developers will try to copy what Remedy has created.
*
Combining bullet-time with one of Max's many diving moves will allow you to use one of the most exciting gameplay mechanics that the gaming industry has ever seen. Words really cannot describe how great this game plays.
*
The story also deserves mention, as this is the backbone of the game, and the main reason I didn't get any sleep when Max Payne came out. The story draws you into the world of Max Payne almost immediately and keeps you involved and close to the monitor throughout by using comic strips and voice acting.

Joe Siegler

11-29-2001, 02:55 PM

Gamers Uplink Network
http://www.gamersuplink.com/html/maxpaynepcreview.phtml
*
Rating:* 97.5%
*
Right from the start the player is drawn into this epic tale of greed, deception, and death...The game's story is of big budget movie caliber, and is even reminiscent of the hit television show The Sopranos. However there is so much more to this great game.
*
Ever wonder what it would be like to be the hero of a John Woo movie? Just imagine that and multiply it by a factor of 10 and that's what Max is all about.
*
The game's environments are diverse to say the least. [I]n one chapter you must chase a member of the mob along rooftops, through buildings, and even catch a train ride by jumping onto a moving car as it rumbles by. As you follow along after him, there will be dozens of his goons you have to fight your way through.
*
Max Payne gets my vote for one of the coolest games ever. Everything it throws at you is top notch. The gameplay is fun and innovative, the graphics are to die for, the sound is just exquisite, and with the addition of what should be hundreds of mods to play, the replay factor is enormous. Even if you are not a fan of action games, Max deserves a shot. The story will keep anyone engrossed in the game.

Joe Siegler

12-04-2001, 09:59 AM

Viper Lair
http://www.viperlair.com/reviews/software/games/maxpayn/max1.htm
*
Rating:* 9/10
*
The game borrows heavily from "John Woo" and "The Matrix". Other than the dark, film noir style, the action sequences are explosive. When you're shooting it out with multiple enemies, you can feel the tension just building. One great moment that'll stay in my mind for awhile is the underground parking garage sequence. you got dozens and dozens of bad guys, on foot and in MOVING vehicles! Cars are blowing up left and right, bullets zinging past you, echos of tire screeches and bullets spattering the walls...., wow.
*
The game is a heck of a lot of fun, and amazing to look at. If you want to show your computer off to envious friends, this is the game to load up. The game plays well, looks and sounds great, and is sure to rob 20-30 hours of your life. But it'll be worth it.

Joe Siegler

12-07-2001, 06:17 PM

Miss Match Gaming Network
http://www.miss-match.com/review.php?id=1
*
Rating:* 9/10
*
The graphics in MP are some of the best I've seen in any action game. The particle effects are simply fantastic! There was one scene where I ran into an underground train control room to take out 4 mobsters, I distinctly remember turning round after the gunfight to see the whole room littered with bullet holes, bits of plaster from the walls and computer screens with surges of electricity wrapping round them after being hit by a bullet or two. The realism in the environment is executed superbly.
*
A highly recommended purchase.

maciam

12-09-2001, 09:54 PM

Hey Joe...lol
I started this thread last week to get votes on max being the best 3rd person shooter ever (which it is) and I come back to see Joe posting all these reviews.....lol
Isn't that what its all about? After all it is a 3drealms web site.....and no, i dont work for 3drealms, but i do think it is the best damn game ever and since i strted this thred, go Joe keep 'em coming. It's getting attention and thats what advertising is all about. By the way, by my count, max is way ahead of the vote.
:-)

Joe Siegler

12-11-2001, 05:39 PM

OnePC
http://www.onepc.net/index.php?view=docs&doc_id=69
*
Rating:* 95%
*
What makes Max Payne such an amazing game is that it puts you in the middle of an amazing action movie, where you get to play the star and fully interact with it. No other game has accomplished this to the extent that Max Payne does.
*
You play through the scene where your family is killed and a few of Max’s dreams. These were some of the strangest, but most fun, levels I have ever played in any game.
*
Max Payne is as much of a movie as a video game, which is what makes it so great. With amazing graphics, a good story and Bullet Time, Max Payne is one of the best action games of all time.

Joe Siegler

12-20-2001, 02:41 PM

BBC News
http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/entertainment/reviews/newsid_1554000/1554350.stm

(no rating)

If you ever wanted to play the lead character in a movie about a fugitive cop in the mean streets of New York, then Max Payne is the game for you. It is an atmospheric third-person shooter, clearly inspired by the cinematography of John Woo films and The Matrix, with captivating graphics and edgy, action sequences.

Joe Siegler

12-20-2001, 02:41 PM

Tweakers Asylum
http://www.tweakersasylum.com/Reviews/Remedy/MaxPayne/00000005.htm

(no rating)

It is a non-stop adrenaline rush throughout the whole thing. It has a unique style of game play, a great story, and I know that I will be playing through this game more than once. So if you have an $50 laying around, or if your bored and have nothing to do, go out and pick up a copy of Max Payne, I promise you, you will get hooked.

This product is a must for any "First Person Shooter" addict. This is definitely one of the best games of the year!

Joe Siegler

12-24-2001, 10:56 AM

BoomGames
http://www.boomgames.com/dyndoc.php/MaxReview

Rating: 98%

The graphics are stunning...the plot is awesome...there is no other game like this.

~~~

Ferrago
http://www.ferrago.co.uk/features/games/reviews/maxpayne_1.html

Rating: 94%

[T]he action game genre has progressed in leaps and bounds, fuelled by constant graphical improvements and the burgeoning popularity of on-line gaming. Max Payne, however, marks something of an overhaul of the genre once again, and I've no doubt whatsoever that the advancements present in Max Payne will be imitated and will influence countless unreleased titles of the future. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the finest singleplayer action game ever.

Before Max Payne, interactive action games could never imitate the sheer tension and gripping action of a good Hollywood blockbuster, until Max Payne, that is. Max Payne introduces a style and approach to action from a perspective that adds sheer cinematic perfection to every sequence, yet maintains totally the players sense of control over the action. In short, Max Payne is a work of gaming genius.

Max Payne is nothing short of sheer cinematic glory, with a tension and atmosphere easily on a par with any of the top action movies of recent years. Max Payne really does mark a step in a new and exciting direction; and is a game that must be played at all costs.

Joe Siegler

01-04-2002, 10:50 AM

Computer Gaming World (Nov. 2001)

Rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars (Editor's Choice award)

Max Payne is like a big summer blockbuster movie. And when it comes to special effects, Max Payne sports some of the most mouth-watering eye candy ever seen in a computer game. Remedy's 3D engine does an amazing job of rendering a world that not only looks photo realistic at times but also evokes the grittiness of a noir action-thriller on the big screen. The extreme detail of the world, even the cleaner environments you encounter later on, really help in the suspension of disbelief.

Loc Dog

01-04-2002, 03:02 PM

any 1 who gives max payne a review under 90% is either being biased, or they just dont know what they r talking about. some ppl only like 1 type of game, say quake style for example, futuristic fps with insane guns that dont exist yet. the games they look at, if they rnt like this they get bad reviews bcua the ppl only like 1 type of game. i play all kinds of games: FPS-half-life and alot of its mods, unreal tournament, Action Espionage- Metal gear solid, and GTA(2)(3) r kinda their own category as well as RPG's , final fantasy and the like, strategy, star craft, empire earth and (4 years ago) command and conquer. u gotta have tons of variety and c "y would some1 like this game?" well it has these features which certain ppl like. i dont like playin sport games, but damn, the graphics and sound on games like nfl 2k2 r sweet, and the gameplay is better then ne thing out there in its genre.

Guest

01-04-2002, 06:21 PM

I like how they say that they've borrowed heavily from "The Matrix". Wasn't the game already in production before the Matrix even came out?
I think it should say the game and movie both borrowed heavily from John Woo.

Joe Siegler

01-08-2002, 01:05 PM

Game Informer (Oct. 2001 magazine)
*
Rating:* 9.5* (Second opinion:* 9.25)
*
[Max Payne delivers] the non-stop, pulse-pounded, spine-tingling, ass-kicking kind of action the likes of which I haven't seen since DOOM.* There's just no escaping it -- this title will have you in its clutches until you've finished it.
*
Some games have it and some games don't.* Max Payne definitely has it.* Beautiful animations and impeccable realism puts you in the middle of the action.* Add to the great [bullet-time] gameplay a gangland epic delivered in a comic book graphic novel style, and Max Payne is a winner through and through.

Joe Siegler

01-11-2002, 05:35 PM

Wrestlecar PC
http://www.wrestlecar.com/pc/games/00051/

Rating: 97%

Every so often a game comes around of such magnitude, such brilliance, that it changes the PC gaming community as a whole. Developed by Remedy Games and Published by Gathering of Developers and 3DRealms, Max Payne is the most brilliant game since Half-Life, and that is a very hefty achievement. Never before has a game provoked such emotion in a character. Many games advertise to put you into the setting of a movie, but Max Payne actually accomplishes it. This game is one of the best of the best, and it is damn fun to play as well.

Never before have I become so compelled to play a game, and complete it again and again. Although its overall storyline is short, it does an excellent job of portraying a character's personality, and placing you in the scene of a Hollywood movie. This storyline is so cunning and clever that Dimension Films have purchased the rights, and are planning on releasing a movie of Max Payne in the future.

Max Payne delivers a graphics package that is second to none. Everything can be destroyed; vehicles, furniture, and everything in between. The character motion and appearances are photo realistic, and Max Payne includes outstanding cinematic effects.

The gameplay in Max Payne is outstanding, bar none. This is the absolute best third-person shooter I have ever played, and that is simply an understatement. Bullet-time makes this section of the game, and is something that sets Max Payne well ahead of other titles.

Joe Siegler

01-21-2002, 10:27 AM

GamePro magazine (No. 2001)

Rating: 95%

[Bullet-time] looks amazing and works surprisingly well. Coolest of all is when you're diving across a room, spraying bullets at your enemies, and sending sparks and blood flying--all in dramatic slow motion. Expect many imitators. Even without bullet-time, Max Payne would be a first-rate title. The gritty New York environments are among the most detailed and realistic ever created.

Max Payne is a well-polished gem. Everything is done perfectly, from the graphics to the gameplay to the voice-acting to the story.

~~~

Gone Blind Gaming
http://www.goneblindgaming.com/reviews_detail.asp?review_id=51

Rating: 9/10

One of the things that dropped my jaw, was a scene where I was in a warehouse, and I shot (by accident) a propane tank. The nozzle flew off, and a gassy flame was flowing out the top. That was very cool looking in and of itself, but when that thing blew up, I nearly wet myself. It didn't just "explode", like we'd see in many other games that don't go for the micro-detail this game does. This tank shot across the room, like a rocket, and blew up on impact. To see this tank flying across the room, like a giant rocket - took my breath away.

Whoever they hired to be the concept/visuals designer for this game should have earned their weight in gold in directing this game, they did an excellent job immersing you in the atmosphere.

~~~

Geek.com
http://www.geek.com/gaming/gamerevs/maxpayne/

Rating: 91%

Part Matrix, part Dirty Harry, part John Woo, Max Payne is the future of gaming--and the future looks good.

~~~

Game Critic
http://www.game-critic.com/Reviews/PC/MaxPayne/review.htm

Rating: 5 of 5 Stars

[T]his game is driven by genius rendering and lighting, innovative motion techniques and uncannily perfect graphics. It is raised to the nth degree by movie quality sound effects and voice acting, then nudged over the top by a storyline, the likes of which the gaming world has never seen before. Max Payne firmly grasps five star perfection!

~~~

Game Gal
http://www.gamegal.com/maxpayne_pc.htm

(no rating)

Remedy Entertainment's third-person action title rings in the start of 21st century gaming with its new, innovative game engine, the use of new technology for superior lighting and graphics, and an absorbing storyline.

Max Payne's gameplay is revolutionary. Remedy has stocked what could have been a regular Joe of a third-person title with John Woo-style side jumping, two-handed shooting action that never grows tiresome. [O]nce you taste the Payne, you'll never want it to end. This game is so enjoyable that 16 hours is not enough time to fully savor its flavor.

As for women, there aren't many in the game. The few you meet are hard-boiled babes who aren't afraid to wield a piece and run large, covert operations. Better yet, they wear normal clothes and aren't portrayed as silicone-filled sex objects. Be still my bleeding heart. If Max Payne is the future of gaming, consider me cemented in for the ride.