The graphics in Max Payne are just insane. No game has had the features that Max Payne holds. The pause feature is one thing, when the game is paused; the screen rotates around Max in the exact position he was just in. Also, the feature of "real time" is the best, when pressing L1 and L2 you can go slow motion and be playing the game, in order to doge bullets more efficiently and effectively. Through out the game Max Payne has many different facial expressions this feature makes the game unique. Instead of one ordinary face throughout the game, he has over 8 different expressions. This game deserves a great 10/10 on graphics design.
Control, the control of this game is very simplistic. The analog sticks move Max. The left one moves him and the right turns and looks. The right shoulder buttons shoot and duck. The left shoulder buttons activate ''Bullet time'' and ''Shoot dodge''. When moving Max, there are no awkward camera angles that would disturb you, and your enemies are always sighted on screen.
Max Payne has introduced a new style of gaming. This game introduces ''Bullet Time'' and ''Shoot Dodge''. These features allow you to enter a Matrix-like mode and dodge bullets. The sound and motion slows down to allocate for better reaction. Another cool characteristic are the difficulty levels. You start the game on a feature called "The Fugitive". The ''Fugitive'' difficulty adjusts the enemies to your skills. So if you are easily running through the levels, it will automatically make it more complicated for you. There is only one problem with the screens with a great deal of action. It tends to slow down, making it more difficult to kill enemies. The game play deserves a 8/10.
The sound of Max Payne is excellent. In "bullet time" sounds are slowed down and are so realistic, you get a shock as if the gunshot was right next to you. Many of the mafia members have an accent, making the comic sections fun, and entertaining to listen to. When people are behind a door, talking or yelling, there voice is subdued, and when you open the door, to blow them away the sound becomes much more louder. The sound is very realistic and is worthy of a 9/10.
The replay value was discussed before. When you have beaten "The Fugitive" part of the game, more difficult and more fun parts of the game open up. This game is a rental; it is easily beaten in less than 6 hours, try it out, its one of the most fun games that Rock Star games has made.