L.A. Noire

L.A. Noire

November 14, 2017
Rockstar Games
4.7/5.0(9,931 reviews)

Genres

ActionAdventureAction

About This Game

L.A. Noire puts players behind the badge in post-war 1947 Los Angeles as detective Cole Phelps, working homicide, vice and arson cases across a meticulously reconstructed city. Its signature is interrogation: facial-capture technology renders performances so closely that the job becomes watching a suspect for the flicker of a lie, then deciding whether to believe, doubt or accuse. The investigation, not the gunfight, is the point.

Reception is genuinely split. Admirers call it a landmark detective game for its atmosphere, performances and period detail; detractors cite a repetitive case-to-case rhythm, dated open-world driving and technical friction. Rated Mature, it rewards anyone drawn to deduction and 1940s noir over action, and tests the patience of anyone expecting a sandbox crime romp.

Highlights

  • Innovative facial animation technology for enhanced realism
  • Engaging narrative with a variety of cases to solve
  • Expansive open world that mirrors 1940s Los Angeles
  • Dynamic gameplay that combines action, exploration, and puzzles
  • A unique blend of crime-solving and exploration with a strong narrative
  • Stylish art direction and soundtrack that capture the noir atmosphere
  • Varied gameplay mechanics from interrogations to gunfights

Platforms

PS4

Multiplayer

Single Player Only

Game Information

ESRB Rating:ESRB Mature

Gameplay

Modes
Single player
Perspective
Third person

Player Reviews

Mixed

Overall, player feedback on L.A. Noire is highly polarized, with many praising its unique storytelling, engaging gameplay mechanics, and atmospheric setting; yet, numerous players express frustration over its technical issues and the requirement of third-party DRM. Despite the criticisms, a significant number of players regard it as a masterpiece in detective gaming.

Pros

  • Engaging story and atmosphere
  • Innovative facial animation technology
  • Unique detective gameplay mechanics
  • Rich in historical detail and settings
  • Strong character performances

Cons

  • Mandatory third-party DRM and account setup
  • Gameplay can be inconsistent and repetitive
  • Technical issues such as locking at 30 FPS
  • Inflexible save system
  • Some players found the interrogation mechanics frustrating

Based on 100 reviews from steam

Screenshots

Gameplay Video

LA Noire: Switch vs PS3/PS4/Xbox One X Graphics Comparison + Frame-Rate Test

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L.A. Noire — Frequently Asked Questions

Is L.A. Noire worth playing?
L.A. Noire has a mixed reception from players, holding an average score of 4.7 out of 5 across 9,931 reviews.
Is L.A. Noire included with PlayStation Plus?
Yes — L.A. Noire is part of the PlayStation Plus game catalogue, so subscribers on that tier can play it at no extra cost.
Is L.A. Noire single-player or multiplayer?
L.A. Noire supports single player.
What platforms is L.A. Noire available on?
L.A. Noire is available on PS4.
When did L.A. Noire release?
L.A. Noire released on November 14, 2017.
What is L.A. Noire's age rating?
L.A. Noire carries an ESRB rating of ESRB Mature.