Max Payne

"Somehow, they made it work for the GBA"

If you haven't already heard of Max Payne, then you probably don't own a computer or have the slightest idea of what WASD means. Max Payne was the culmination of an entirely new FPS engine (the particle engine) which brought about the most advanced graphics seen today as Max Payne 2. A few first person shooters have come out for the GBA thus far using the old style raytracers derived from original FPS classics like Wolfenstein 3D and Doom, but it wouldn't really work for Max Payne for obvious reasons (3rd person view and bullt time!).

Gameplay 7.5/10
Granted, it is difficult to recreate Max Payne style in a Gameboy Advance, and they went with an isometric view. The only difference from standard isometric is that the screen shifts towards where you're facing. It's about the only way they could've pulled off the graphics as they did because it gives you a closer view of Max and the guns he is using. Ok, so that all works fine, but now you have to get used to the controls. They made it so that up made you move upper right diagonally, right moves lower right diagonally, and so on; while hitting diagonal directions on the D pad would make you move up and down, side to side in game. Just takes a little getting used to, but be prepared to shift around in odd directions when you're trying to shoot people if you're just starting out. The only real problem is getting shot from off screen. You may not take a lot of damage, but it becomes problematic. Bullet time is the thing to look for in any Max Payne game, and they accomplished it fairly well. While in shootdodge or bullet time, it's easy to aim and you get more shots off then your enemies. It's also the only way to win against groups of enemies.

Graphics 9/10
The people actually have discernable qualities (like fat guys and business suits), and you can tell what gun you and your enemies are wielding. The maps are fairly interesting and easy to navigate. Interactive environment with cabinets containing ammo or pain killers besides flushing toilets and turning on faucets. It's probably the most dynamic environment you'll ever see in a game this small with explosive canisters and bullet-riddled furniture. Blood will splatter on the walls along with bullet holes wherever you shoot. Not sure if they'll try and top this with a sequel for the GBA.

Sound 8.5/10
Yet another amazing aspect is the telling of the story with actual voices like the older game of the same name. This is probably the first instance of actual voice from a game on a portable console. I only gave this an 8.5 because the music wasn't too striking or varied, but still gives it the atmosphere needed.

Replayability 7/10
The difficulties to beat, which aren't an easy task, it offers quite a bit of play time despite it being shorter than it's PC counterpart. In the end, you may not want to pick it up again after you've beaten it, but they are cheats to mess with. Unfortunately, bullet time makes multiplayer impossible, so I'd probably place it more in the range of rental unless you can find it used for cheap.

Conslusion
An entertaining game, but I'd say buying is more reserved for the enthusiast or Max Payne fan. Some may find it a little frustrating either way from having to restart levels because you can't stay alive the entire time without plenty of practice.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 01/07/04