L.A. Noire
" Immersive adventure-strategy detective game with revolutionary interrogation tech but clunky mechanics "
L.A. Noire Review
L.A. Noire is a detective game set in 1940s Los Angeles, praised for its immersive atmosphere, unique facial animation technology, and engaging storytelling. Players assume the role of Cole Phelps, an LAPD officer solving a variety of cases that range from murders to conspiracies. The game excels in narrative depth, character development, and innovative interrogation mechanics requiring players to read suspects' expressions and decide when to press or doubt.
However, the game has been criticized for its outdated gameplay elements, such as repetitive investigation routines, clunky driving and shooting mechanics, and a restrictive 30 FPS cap due to its facial capture technology. Many players express frustration with the mandatory Rockstar Games Launcher requiring online login even for single-player content, causing technical issues and privacy concerns. Despite these drawbacks, the game remains a beloved classic for fans of noir detective stories and interactive storytelling.
Overall, L.A. Noire delivers a memorable narrative experience but struggles with technical and design limitations that impact gameplay enjoyment.
Highlights
Players highly praise the game's atmosphere and setting, capturing the moody 1940s Los Angeles with authentic visuals and a jazzy soundtrack.
The facial animation technology is considered revolutionary, adding depth and realism to interrogations.
The storyline and character development receive strong acclaim for being mature, well-written, and emotionally engaging, with cases inspired by real events.
Many enjoy the detective gameplay mechanics that reward attention to detail and critical thinking.
Free DLC content and a strong musical score further enhance the overall experience.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the mandatory online login via Rockstar Launcher even for single-player mode, which frustrates many users and causes technical problems.
The game’s 30 FPS cap and dated controls, especially driving and shooting mechanics, are seen as limiting and sometimes frustrating.
The interrogation system is sometimes inconsistent and punishes players for deviating from strict dialogue orders.
The open world is described as shallow with minimal side content, leading to repetitive gameplay.
Some players find the protagonist and police characters unlikable, and others criticize the game’s pacing and lack of modern polish.
Pros
- • Immersive 1940s Los Angeles atmosphere with authentic setting and music.
- • Revolutionary facial animation technology enhances interrogation gameplay.
- • Engaging and mature storytelling with well-developed characters.
- • Detective mechanics encourage careful observation and logical deduction.
- • Free DLC adds additional cases and content to enjoy.
- • Strong voice acting and cinematic presentation.
- • Unique gameplay combining investigation, interrogation, and action.
Cons
- • Mandatory online login and Rockstar Launcher cause access and privacy issues.
- • Game locked at 30 FPS, limiting smoothness and responsiveness.
- • Driving and shooting mechanics feel clunky and outdated.
- • Repetitive investigation structure can become monotonous.
- • Interrogation system punishes out-of-order questioning.
- • Open world lacks meaningful side content or exploration incentives.
- • Technical bugs, crashes, and launcher issues reported.
Rating Criteria
In his fight to climb the ranks and do what's right, LAPD detective Cole Phelps must unravel the truth behind a string of arson attacks, conspiracies, and brutal murders, battling the L.A. underworld and even members of his own department.
