L.A. Noire – Explore 1940s Los Angeles Like a Detective
Table of Contents
| Publisher | Rockstar Games |
|---|---|
| Developer | Team Bondi, Rockstar Games |
| Release Date | 17 May 2011 (Original), 14 Nov 2017 (Remaster) |
| Genre | Action-Adventure, Detective, Neo-Noir |
| Platform | PC (Windows), PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, VR (selected cases) |
L.A. Noire is much more than just a typical open-world action game. This Rockstar masterpiece combines classic 1940s Hollywood glam and crime with deep story-driven detective work. Released in 2011 and beautifully remastered in 2017, the game marries action, storytelling, investigation, and cinematic visuals—offering an experience few other games can match.
Game Description
Become the Ultimate Detective
You play as Cole Phelps, a decorated war veteran turned rookie cop in the Los Angeles Police Department. As you solve cases and climb the ranks—from traffic, homicide, and vice, to arson—you’ll uncover personal demons, big scandals, and a city steeped in corruption.
What Makes L.A. Noire Unique?
- Authentic 1940s L.A.:
The game drops you in a painstakingly recreated Los Angeles, complete with period cars, real-life buildings, radio music, and the vibe of the golden post-war era. - Realistic Detective Gameplay:
Unlike standard action games, L.A. Noire focuses on investigating crime scenes, finding clues, interrogating witnesses, and making tough decisions. Each case is a mini-mystery you have to solve by gathering evidence, observing body language, and using logic. - Face Recognition Technology:
Revolutionary “MotionScan” tech used live actors’ performances, so every subtle facial expression or nervous twitch can give away a lie or signal the truth. - Variety of Cases and Activities:
The game features dozens of cases inspired by real events (from car chases to serial killer hunts). There are also street crimes to respond to, vehicles to collect, and film reels to discover. - Action and Chase Sequences:
While detective work is at the heart of the game, expect hand-to-hand brawls, shootouts, thrilling car chases, and tense foot pursuits through alleys and rooftops.
Story and Atmosphere
L.A. Noire tells a deep, mature story about justice, morality, addiction, and personal downfall. The tone is a unique mix of noir detective fiction, Hollywood drama, and real history. Emotional characters, unexpected plot twists, and memorable side stories make it as much a movie as a game.
Remastered Edition (2017+)
- Enhanced graphics in 4K/HD, improved lighting and weather, new collectibles.
- Additional outfits, challenges, and all released DLC integrated.
- Complete and optimized editions available for PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC.
- VR edition (“The VR Case Files”) presents selected cases for true immersive investigation.
What is system requirement for L.A. Noire?
A smooth detective experience requires matching (or beating) these PC specs (latest Remastered version):
| Requirement | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 7 (64-bit) | Windows 10/11 (64-bit) |
| CPU | Intel Core i3-3220 / AMD FX-4300 | Intel Core i7-3770K / AMD Ryzen 5 1400 |
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 2GB / AMD Radeon HD 7770 | NVIDIA GTX 970 4GB / AMD RX 570 4GB or better |
| DirectX | Version 11 | Version 11 |
| Storage | 18 GB free space | 25 GB SSD or more |
| Others | Mouse, keyboard/gamepad | Gamepad/browser for VR Case Files |
- Runs very well on modern gaming laptops/desktops and now optimized for SSDs.
- Console editions are fully tuned for their hardware (Switch, PS4/5, Xbox).
Extra Tips:
- For VR, a compatible headset and better GPU (e.g., GTX 1080 or higher) is suggested.
- Gamepad improves driving/combat sections; keyboard/mouse better for clue-finding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About L.A. Noire
Q1. Is L.A. Noire open world like GTA?
Yes, it’s open world—drive anywhere on the 1947 city map—but gameplay is more structured around solving cases and progressing through detective ranks.
Q2. How long is the main story?
Roughly 20–25 hours for main cases; completionists (all side crimes, collectibles) can expect 40+ hours.
Q3. Can you replay cases?
Yes, cases can be replayed to get higher ratings or discover missed clues and alternate approaches (accusing different suspects, new dialogue outcomes).
Q4. Does L.A. Noire have real crimes?
Many cases are inspired by or directly based on real-life 1940s L.A. crimes, adding to the authenticity.
Q5. Do choices matter?
Absolutely! The way you interrogate suspects, present evidence, or accuse characters can drastically affect outcomes—and your case ratings.
Q6. Does the game have difficulty modes?
There’s no standard “easy/normal/hard,” but hints, damage, and map guidance can be toggled. Success depends on your investigatory skill.
Q7. Is there multiplayer?
No, L.A. Noire is a strictly single-player narrative experience (except for VR leaderboards).
Q8. What are Street Crimes?
Random side-missions (like purse snatching, shootouts, runaway convicts) that pop up while you’re driving. Responding boosts XP and unlocks bonus content.
Q9. Is VR mode worth it?
If you have the tech, “VR Case Files” makes you the detective: inspect clues, question witnesses, and even drive using motion controls—very immersive!
Q10. Is L.A. Noire good for casual gamers?
Definitely! This is a story-rich, slow-burn mystery with plenty of help for beginners. No rush—enjoy the investigation at your pace.
Q11. Are there age restrictions?
L.A. Noire is best for teens+ due to realistic crime scenes, mature themes, strong language, and violence.
Q12. Is it period accurate?
Yes—clothes, cars, music, locations, and even slang have been meticulously researched for max authenticity.
L.A. Noire remains an unforgettable, immersive detective journey—the perfect mix of open-world exploration, classic mysteries, and 1940s style. Whether you’re a crime junkie, an adventure gamer, or just looking for something truly original, step into Cole Phelps’ shoes and see if you’ve got what it takes to clean up the streets of old-school L.A. Happy sleuthing!
