I didn't expect alot from Max Payne, as the hype around it dulled my senses. I bought the game on a whim, and wow.. I was blow away. Technically, the game has no equal for graphics, the camera work makes you feel like your in a movie. The gameplay is very well done, although the AI is moderate, it can still provide a challenge. The key to the game is the storyline. Your heart goes out to this character, I more than once felt as though I would well up a tear for what this fellow goes through. The soundtrack and vocals are excellent adding so much more depth to the story.  My only beef with this game is that it is EXTREMELY mature oriented. The graphic violence, blood, and various inuendos throughout the game should really be dealt with by adults. I haven't tried the parental "lock" version, however I can't help but wonder if they could take out all the stuff I would be concerned with my kids seeing. Max Payne is going to go on my shelf as one of the best games I've ever played.