First person shooter (fps) games are quite often a formulaic and disappointing combination of the latest graphic eye-candy, linear progression through missions or levels, and a story that seems to have been added as an afterthought. Rarely does one see something new and exciting, too often the games are just examples of graphic artistry without thought. Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne shows that the story makes the game.

The graphics in Max Payne 2 are not revolutionary, other than a little physics application, there's not much that is unseen before. High-level polygon count, smooth transitions, detailed scenery and character textures, all put together well to make a nice backdrop for the game. But where most games stop there, thinking this is all they'll need, MP2 goes one better. It has an engaging story that draws you, the player, into the depths of Max's psyche.

The between level cut-scenes are interspersed with graphic-novel style imagery, in addition to the standard animated fare. However, instead of just the cut-scenes between each level, MP2 puts animated scenes within the levels, making you part of the story. You don't just watch dream sequences unfold, but make them what they are by playing through them.

The game takes you into it, allowing you to empathize with the character, and feel a part of the story. You become so engrossed with what is going on that you can't wait to see what's going to happen next, and unlike most games, it isn't a simple frag-fest, nor is it easy to predict where the story is going.

The gameplay is good, simple movement and action functions; bullet-time has been slightly enhanced since the original, giving Max a stronger sense of his unique ability. The AI in the game is pretty good, the opponents often walk around behind you while you sit and wait for them to stupidly come at you from the front. You also get the opportunity to play as Mona Sax, Max's lady love.

The levels are the standard linear fare, you start at point A, work your way to point B, rarely having a different path than the one the designers want you to take. A few puzzle oriented levels, such as the Fun House, give you a break from the standard streets of death and buildings full of baddies, however, the story draws you in so much and the levels aren't just endless rows upon rows of bad guys, so you don't really get bored with them.

After you finish the game at the easiest level, it opens up harder levels and a few alternate play modes as well. The game is a little short, taking only a day of time to play through casually, but it isn't the amount of time it takes, but the quality of time spent. I thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent with Max and Mona, and I think you will too. A-