I have the original Max Payne and it was one of my favourites. It was a game that did everything right. A crystal third person FPS.
I couldn't wait for Max 2, and I wasn't disappointed. It's hard to believe but they have improved on the original, with better graphics, sound, voice acting and level design. Controls are well layed out and intuitive.
The story-line is compelling and you actually feel for poor old Max. The story remains gritty and true to life as you blast yourway through the underbelly of the city in a true to life film noir.
Great use of physics in the environment.You can interact with almost everything.
Try sneaking along the ledge of a brownstone, with thugs skulking below, but don't knock that paint can into the alley. Or a gun fight in a ware house with bullets blowing up 50lb sacks, knocking over pails and splintering wood. Great stuff. Truly immersive.