Remedy Entertainment has confirmed that development on the Max Payne 1 & 2 remake continues at full speed, with Rockstar Games working closely alongside them. According to Remedy’s latest shareholder report, the project has reached full production and the collaboration between both companies remains “close and productive.”
The remake will combine the first two Max Payne games into a single title for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Remedy is building the game using their proprietary Northlight engine, the same technology that powered their recent acclaimed titles Control and Alan Wake 2.
First announced in 2023, this project represents a unique collaboration that brings the franchise full circle. Remedy created the original Max Payne in 2001, with Rockstar publishing the title before eventually acquiring the IP rights. Now, the original creators have returned to reimagine their noir masterpiece with the blessing and support of Rockstar.
Max Payne revolutionized third-person shooters with its groundbreaking “bullet time” mechanics that allowed players to dive through the air in slow motion while gunning down enemies. The series also garnered praise for its gritty noir storytelling, psychological themes, and graphic novel-style cutscenes.
Unlike a standard remaster, this project is being built from the ground up as a comprehensive remake, promising modern gameplay and visuals while preserving the dark atmosphere and narrative depth of the originals.
The use of Remedy’s Northlight engine suggests players can expect the same level of technical excellence and atmospheric detail seen in the studio’s recent titles. The engine is particularly known for its advanced lighting, physics, and environmental storytelling capabilities.
One question that remains unanswered is how the remake will handle the voice of Max Payne himself. James McCaffrey, whose iconic performance defined the character, passed away in late 2023. Remedy has not yet revealed their approach to this sensitive aspect of production.
