The first two Max Payne games were well known for their graphic novel-inspired cutscenes, but Rockstar has taken a decidedly different approach with Max Payne 3, as evidenced by this latest entry in their Design and Technology video series.
Rather than aping the approach of the old games, Max Payne 3 will instead blend real-time visual with flashy graphical effects and kinetic typography. While the result might not win over everyone who remains skeptical of the series' new direction, it's certainly an interesting blend of of the original's comic book style with a grittier, more technological edge.
The new approach also means that the game will be able to transition seamlessly from gameplay to cutscene and back without ever pausing to load, a nice touch that should help to keep the experience immersive.
The trailer goes on to highlight the game's robust destruction mechanics, which include cover that splinters dynamically under gunfire and explosive setpieces designed to keep gameplay as cinematic as possible.
Max Payne 3 is out for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 on May 15 in North America and May 18 worldwide. A PC version is slated to follow on May 29 in North America and June 1 in Europe.
