Max is as suave as ever.
But thanks to the handy quick-load feature, masquerading as an unassuming F9 button, Max is breathing his laboured breaths once more. He smiles grimly again, confident that he can pull off the move. Because he knows...he has knowledge and with the pistols nestling in each paw, there's absolutely no way he'll die again.
The sequel to Remedy's critically acclaimed 2001 blockbuster third-person shooter has received a graphical polish-up, but it retains the undeniable "Max Payne" bits. There's shooting, there's dying and there's plenty of quick-saving. But most importantly, there are countless moments where you'll sit bolt upright in amazement; desperate to replay the expertly executed dive you've just performed. Max Payne 2 has the irresistible ability to make you feel worthy of such a beautiful game.
Our main character is ageing, yet he's still as suave as ever. The game's story is of no less importance, however, and you'll find Max's tale of love and lust as intriguing as his previous exploits in snowy New York.
Remedy hasn't tampered with the original formula. The game really succeeds at all because of this. There are no frown-inducing puzzles, for instance. The action is kept at the fore of proceedings and the action is largely relentless throughout the brief game.
Brief, yes. It's certainly no forty-hour trek through a land of mystical creatures. Levels are grounded in the realms of the "real world". We have warehouses. Grime-encased apartments. Max Payne 2 paints a depressing picture, but the standout moments are the expertly crafted storybook scenes; a feature of the original game that caught the attention of many.
Max Payne 2 is devoid of a multiplayer component, but the single-player experience is a thoroughly enjoyable one. This is a game to sit back and relax with, stretch and indulge in some outlandish shootouts. The pacing is impeccable too, and labelling Max Payne 2 as the definitive third-person shooter is entirely correct.
It's just too short. And Max Payne was before it. But by all means, sample the sequel if you found Max's original adventure captivating.