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Chapter Two: Bullet-Time Strategies
Bullet time is arguably the most anticipated feature of Max Payne--and arguably the most important! Without bullet time, it would be extremely difficult to survive the frenetic gun battles. Max possesses a limited amount of bullet time that's replenished with each kill. A shootdodge, basically bullet time plus a dive (in any direction), uses a certain amount of bullet time. Also, Max can simply activate bullet time and move around as normal, which depletes his bullet-time reserve much more rapidly.
Implementing the Perfect Shootdodge
The best bullet-time shootdodge includes the following:
- Max doesn't take damage.
- Max has a clear line of fire on the enemy or enemies.
- Max is able to quickly move to cover upon completion of the maneuver.
Start a shootdodge from the safety of cover--for example, behind a wall corner or on the other side of a doorway. This keeps Max from taking damage before the shootdodge. Now while it's likely a player would perform a straight shootdodge to the left or the right, that maneuver actually presents a large and inviting target for the enemies.
Instead, perform a shootdodge straight back or back to the left or right. Max floats perpendicular to the enemy in a straight left or right shootdodge. If you use the back key, Max moves away from the enemy and presents himself as a much smaller target (basically his feet instead of his whole body).
Avoid performing a shootdodge that requires Max to maneuver behind some cover, like a column or overturned table. Unless you're attempting to reach the cover, it may be a waste of bullet time since the obstruction blocks Max's line of fire on the enemy.
Attempt to use a shootdodge toward another area of cover so that Max lands behind a corner, crate, or other obstruction. Once a shootdodge is completed, Max slowly gathers himself off the floor (unless you immediately reactivate a shootdodge or bullet time). This can leave Max extremely vulnerable to remaining enemies.
Optimum Weapon Selection
Over the course of the game, you'll discover that some weapons are much more effective in shootdodging than others. Most of this has to do with the enemy's distance from Max and the weapon's accuracy at long- and short range. Here are some tips regarding weapon selection:
Shotguns
Require a close-range shootdodge to be effective. Unless you're using the Jackhammer, Max won't be able to get off more than one shot during the shootdodge. A close-range shot can kill most thugs; at long range, you're better off using another weapon.
Desert Eagle
One of the better long-range power weapons. You'll find the Desert Eagle effective at all ranges. It is extremely accurate and boasts high damage potential. Use the Desert Eagle at medium- to long range (saving close range for the shotgun) and aim for the head.
Ingrams
The Ingrams' high rate of fire produces a weapon that's effective at any range, though relatively inaccurate at long range. Because of the sheer quantity of projectiles you're able to fire within a shootdodge, it's possible to level multiple guards in a single leap. If you're up against a tightly packed group of guards (like those coming through a doorway or around the corner of a hall), consider the Ingrams as your weapon of choice.
Colt Commando
Arguably the best all-around weapon, the Colt Commando possesses power at close range and accuracy at long range. Your main concern is conserving its ammunition for the tougher battles.
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