Max Payne Returns In Remake

Max Payne is returning to latest-generation platforms with a “AAA-level” remake.

The project is currently only at a developmental stage, but will be a single title remaking Max Payne 1 and 2. It’ll be available for PS5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC.

It’s fair to say certain Rockstar remakes have not had a fantastic reception recently, so the production setup for this project may ease some fears. Rockstar (which bought out the rights to the brand 20 years ago) will be funding the development budget but original developers Remedy Entertainment will be making the game using their own engine.

The budget is said to be “in line with a typical Remedy AAA-production.” Once Rockstar has recouped the development budget and distribution costs, Remedy will get royalty payments.

There’s no word yet on if or how the game itself will change beyond simply improving the graphics. Remedy has said only that it will “bring the story, action and atmosphere of the original Max Payne games back to players in new ways.”

The big question among most fans right now seems to be whether game writer Sam Lake will again be the face model for the game, a choice which back then was a budget necessity. There’s also debate about whether Remedy should use graphic novel panels again for retro appeal or have full motion cut scenes.

The big question from me is whether I’ll rage quit after falling off the same plank 10 times in a row again.