New, Different and Enjoyable but Thoroughly Flawed
posted by TXYeti (AUSTIN, TX) May 19, 2011
Member since Aug 2010
48
out of
70
gamers (69%) found this review helpful
LA Noire is very slow, very deliberate, at times boring and at times frustrating.
That being said, the story lines and the way the cases develop are often still good enough to keep me engaged and playing.
The game is comprised chiefly of investigating crime scenes and other locations pertinent to the various cases and interviewing people. The mechanics for each of these activities are passable, but not without their flaws.
Investigating crime scenes is much more "hunt-and-peck" than an exercise in intuitive searching. A controller vibration lets you know when you're near a clue, so its often just a matter of sufficiently walking around an area to get what you need.
Interviewing persons if interest involves asking a question based on your investigation, then reacting to the P.O.I.s answer by taking it as truth, doubting it, or accusing them of lying outright (which requires soe evidence as back-up). There is only one right answer and path in any interview scenario and often times you must rely on clues from facial "tells" from P.O.I.s coupled with info and clues you've already found. The process is a little boring and can be frustrating when you don't know the path the game wants you to take.
Game play is otherwise peppered with clumsy chase sequences (both on foot and/or in a car) and a few combat scenarios. The controls for these parts are what makes them clumsy (especially running and taking cover) and they aren't in any way different or unique compared to anything you've probably already played.
On the up side, the game has the best facial animations I've ever seen. All games going forward that don't live up to this new standard will look bad in comparison. Likewise, the dialogue is well written and well delivered and the music and overall feel and 1940s atmosphere are well executed.
Like a late night crime drama on TV when you can't sleep, LA Noire is interesting enough to keep your attention 'til the end, but not good enough to go out and buy a copy.
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