Rockstar’s latest offering, “LA Noire” is an amazing visually appealing game set in 40s Los Angeles and no doubt you’re already aware of the amount of R&D they put into face mapping, rendering and graphics.
I’m not going to retread on the multiple superlatives that other reviews have given this game; they are all correct; yes its got great visual appeal, the face mechanics are truly amazing, the True/Doubt/Lie system coupled with a strong detective game proves that you can make a “smart” video game which requires you to think.
My only concern is the lack of actual content in the game. With no multiplayer (a cops and robbers multiplayer game would have been cool) and very few side quests (there are about 20, not including the number of hidden collectables such as film reels and cars).
A lot of the game mechanics/engine reminds me of Red Demp Redemption, however in that game you could go into shops, you could try and collect bounties, there were other things to do other than the main game; this is where LA Noire kinda falls down.
Another issue is the incredibly long time it takes to drive from one point to another; yes you can opt to skip these driving by electing your AI colleague to drive for you; but the problem with this is you may miss on a side quest.
The ending of the game also does not fit into the main narrative of the game; the vast majority of the game is you doing good old fashioned police work, and then suddenly it becomes a run-gun and cover fight.
The kicker is that most of the shoot-outs are incredibly easy and most of the enemies do not pose any major threat.
If LA Noire had more side quests, and more features I think I would have enjoyed the game a lot more.
Overall score: 7/10.