Right off the shelf, L.A. Noire is a unique, dark, detective videogame developed by Rockstar Games where you play as Detective Cole Phelps in a post-World War II version of Los Angeles. The game beautifully merges crime-solving, suspect interrogations, and third-person shooting. What separates this game from others is the 'Interrogation Mode.' It uses a revolutionary MotionScan animation technology that captures actors' faces for the most justified expressions, which play a critical role in determining whether someone is lying or telling the truth during interrogations. It features a split narrative, time jumps, and an intriguing storyline that will keep you glued to the screen.
If you enjoy L.A. Noire, then rest assured, there's plenty more where that came from. Titles from Rockstar Games, like Grand Theft Auto for the sandbox freedom and Red Dead Redemption for narrative depth, could satiate your thirst. But let's not just stick to action-adventure mystery. Games like the interactive drama and action-adventure game, Heavy Rain, and the dark psychological thriller game Alan Wake also resonate strongly with elements found in L.A. Noire. And you would be surprised to know that some offbeat indie titles can also give a rich experience on the lines of L.A. Noire. This is just the tip of the iceberg though...
33. Heavy Rain
Heavy Rain is incredibly similar to L.A. Noire in a myriad of engaging ways. Both games focus heavily on narrative and character development, delivering a deeply immersive plot full of twists, turns, suspense, and action. These are not your average action games, they're interactive dramas where every choice you make profoundly influences the outcome. Like L.A. Noire, Heavy Rain does a fantastic job of making you feel like you're the protagonist solving an intense mystery, as you are faced with moral dilemmas and life-changing decisions all throughout the game.
Similarly to L.A. Noire's crime scene investigation gameplay, Heavy Rain also incorporates investigative puzzles and substantial skill tests, making it a riveting experience. Here too, attention to detail is paramount as you scour environments for clues to help solve cases in intricate detail. The game’s graphics, voice acting, and cinematic presentation are all top-notch, further drawing you into the game’s compelling plot. So, if you enjoyed L.A. Noire's suspenseful narrative, emotive characters, and intense decision-making elements, you'll surely appreciate the similar attributes found in Heavy Rain.
Heavy Rain is available on Playstation 3, Playstation 4, and Windows, typically priced around $20 USD.
32. Beyond: Two Souls
If you enjoyed playing L.A. Noire, you'll certainly enjoy Beyond: Two Souls. This game shares similarities with L.A. Noire in several ways. They both delve into the realm of the psychological and mysterious. Just like L.A. Noire puts you in the driver's seat of a detective solving clues, Beyond: Two Souls tasks you to navigate through the spooky and thrilling world of Jodie, the main character, and her supernatural companion, Aiden. The decisions you make in the game, similar to L.A Noire, have real world consequences and your actions have a palpable ripple effect on the storyline. The narrative-driven nature of both games, and a strong focus on character development, will surely captivate your interest.
Another key similarity between Beyond: Two Souls and L.A. Noire is the cinematic feel of both games. Like L.A. Noire, Beyond: Two Souls is filled with well-executed cut-scenes that accentuate the narrative, making it feel like an interactive movie. The game has remarkable visuals and the quality of performances by renowned actors such as Ellen Page and Willem Dafoe, further enhances its cinematic treatment. It focuses on emotion-driven gameplay, similar to L.A. Noire which emphasizes mood and atmosphere.
Beyond: Two Souls is available on PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and Windows PC platform via the Epic Games Store, typically priced around $30 USD.
31. Detroit: Become Human
So, you enjoyed L.A. Noire? Well, you might find Detroit: Become Human right up your alley. Both games set themselves apart with their stunning visuals and incredible attention to detail, each serves up a highly atmospheric world that engages players by promoting playful interactions with the environment. Just like L.A. Noire gives you the feel of a detective operating in the noir genre, Detroit: Become Human imbibes nuances from the science fiction genre and beautifully illustrates a future society where androids seamlessly coexist with humans. The game places a solid emphasis on careful investigations, dialogue choices, and consequential decision-making, all the while ensuring to serve you cinematic sequences just as L.A. Noire does.
Detroit: Become Human is very similar to L.A Noire when it comes to narrative richness and the way it affects gameplay. While L.A Noire revolves around solving criminal cases, Detroit: Become Human has you juggling multiple character perspectives, and thus, multiple story branches. Both of these games foster a deep level of emotional connection with their characters and rely heavily on the player's choices to ultimately shape the game's outcome. The interrogation and clue-seeking sections of L.A Noire find their match in Detroit: Become Human's intricate dialogue system, and the intense scenes where you must navigate your way through complex situations using wise decisions and sharp instinct. Unleashing your inner detective might just be as satisfying in Detroit: Become Human as it was in L.A Noire.
Detroit: Become Human is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC, typically priced around $20 USD. This tech-noir thriller, with its engaging story and immersive gameplay, could be your next gaming obsession.
30. Max Payne 3
If you loved L.A. Noire, you'll definitely appreciate Max Payne 3. Both games share an intense narrative-driven environment, and they both have a strong emphasis on crime solving. Just like L.A. Noire, Max Payne 3 offers stunningly high-quality graphics and captivating dialogues that keep you gripped to the very end. The cut-scenes in Max Payne 3 resemble film noir, featuring the protagonist delivering monologues in a gritty voice-over style, similar to the protagonist of L.A. Noire, Cole Phelps.
Equally important, they both feature compelling characters with intricate complexities that you unravel as you delve deeper into the storyline. The detailed environments in Max Payne 3 are comparable to those of L.A. Noire in terms of the amount of interactivity they offer. Both plots revolve around justice and retribution, providing fascinating insights into the protagonists' challenges and struggles. Max Payne 3's innovative gameplay, particularly the 'Bullet Time' feature, provides an exciting twist to the traditional third-person shooting mechanics, which I believe would keep you as engaged as you were in L.A. Noire's investigative mechanics.
Max Payne 3 is available on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC, typically priced around $20 USD.
29. The Wolf Among Us
Both The Wolf Among Us and L.A. Noire are narrative-driven noir games that excel in creating a captivating atmosphere. Like L.A. Noire, The Wolf Among Us deals heavily with themes of crime and deception. This game also features a film noir inspired atmosphere, complete with a dark color palette, moody lighting and a cynical protagonist. Just like L.A. Noire, The Wolf Among Us incorporates elements of detective work in gameplay, having you investigate crime scenes, interrogate subjects, and make choices that have significant impact on the narrative progression, truly making the adventure personalized to your gameplay.
Furthermore, The Wolf Among Us follows a character-driven story which keeps you hooked, much like L.A. Noire, mixed with a fantastical element drawing from classic fairytales. Conversations and interactions with other characters are crucial in both games, and your choices in the dialogue have consequences. Both games pay attention to detail and require players to observe their environment carefully, search for clues, and connect the dots of the story. The characters are complex, multidimensional, and carry a sense of realism, creating a strong emotional connection with the players.
The Wolf Among Us is available on PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, iOS, and Android, typically priced around $15 USD.
28. Life Is Strange
Just like L.A. Noire, Life Is Strange is a narrative-driven and atmospheric video game with a strong emphasis on decision-making and character interaction. The game provides its own unique take on the similar elements of mystery, jigsaw-puzzle-style clue-finding, and has a dash of L.A. Noire's sleuthing vibe. While it may not fall under the classic detective noir genre, it still manages to share many of the atmospheric qualities, engrossing narrative development, and intricate investigations that you've loved in L.A. Noire. The focus on choice and consequence in Life Is Strange parallels L.A. Noire's own approach to intertwining actions chosen during gameplay with its narration.
Life Is Strange also mirrors L.A. Noire's heavy reliance on character-driven plotlines. Diving deep into the lives and motivations of its characters, it's the sort of game that delivers emotional punches. Much like L.A. Noire brims with the 1940s Hollywood aesthetics, Life Is Strange immerses you in the ineffable aura of the Pacific Northwest's laid-back, small-town feel. Additionally, the game’s time-rewinding feature adds another level of intrigue to the narrative - reminiscent of the way L.A. Noire's interrogation dynamic kept players on their toes. It’s a journey of self-discovery as much a game of intrigue, mystery, and suspense.
Life Is Strange is available on Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and even Amazon Luna, typically priced around $20 USD.
27. Sleeping Dogs
If you're a fan of L.A. Noire, then Sleeping Dogs is definitely a game I think you should consider. Sleeping Dogs is like a love letter to Hong Kong action cinema, wrapped up in a video game package that shares many similarities to the L.A. Noire. Like in L.A. Noire, Sleeping Dogs emphasizes detective work and you'll be investing most of your time in solving cases and following leads - talk about atmosphere and immersion! There's also a strong focus on narrative with many elements of mystery, crime and law enforcement, much like L.A. Noire.
The open-world environment of Sleeping Dogs is remarkable just like L.A. Noire and offers an involved, vibrant setting that feels alive. Its vehicular and on-foot navigation bears a significant similarity with L.A. Noire. The hand-to-hand combat is much more intense in Sleeping Dogs though, with a martial arts system that resembles the rhythm and flow of a movie fight scene. You stealthily creep around until you are ready to strike, engage in high-speed chases, and undergo various missions, all of which remind you of the fun, action-oriented play style of L.A. Noire.
Sleeping Dogs is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, and backward compatible on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, typically priced around $20 USD.
26. Murdered: Soul Suspect
If you enjoyed the suspense-filled intrigue and captivating narrative of L.A. Noire, then I believe Murdered: Soul Suspect might just be the perfect game for you. Much like L.A. Noire, Soul Suspect is heavily based on unraveling a convoluted mystery by interacting with the environment, finding clues, and solving engaging puzzles that aid in the unfolding of the story. On top of this, the game is set in a detailed urban environment filled with non-player characters that make the world come alive, reminiscent of L.A. Noire’s depiction of post-war Los Angeles.
Furthermore, similar to L.A. Noire, Murdered: Soul Suspect features a strong narrative-driven focus on crime-solving. Though instead of investigating as a living detective, in Soul Suspect, you assume the role of a ghost detective trying to figure out his own murder. As a ghost, your abilities include walking through walls, possession, and influence that all steer the interrogations and investigations in unique directions. While L.A. Noire gives you the gritty realism of a detective’s job in 1940's Los Angeles, Soul Suspect introduces elements of the supernatural into crime-solving, making it an exciting alternative with familiar gameplay elements for L.A Noire fans.
Murdered: Soul Suspect is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, typically priced around $20 USD.
25. Alan Wake
If you enjoyed L.A. Noire, I'd suggest that Alan Wake could be your next adventure. Both games share a deep and engaging narrative drive, creatively using their respective mediums to tell their stories - L.A Noire through the lens of an intimate noir detective tale and Alan Wake by incorporating elements from psychological thriller novels and TV series. Just like L.A. Noire, Alan Wake places huge emphasis on exploration and solving mysteries, all against the backdrop of an atmospheric and immersive setting filled with suspense and unexpected twists. And speaking of characters, Alan Wake, much like Cole Phelps in L.A. Noire, is a multifaceted character with a complex past that keeps unraveling as you progress in the game.
In Alan Wake, the setting is less urban but just as engrossing. You find yourself in the foggy town of Bright Falls rather than the hustle and bustle of L.A Noire's 1940s Los Angeles. But don't let the rural setting fool you. The game packs just as much intensity with unique gameplay mechanics that blend survival horror and action elements. The key here is the use of light to combat the darkness, similar to how evidence searching and interrogation played a crucial part in L.A Noire's gameplay dynamics. Alan Wake also presents challenging puzzles, akin to the case solving in L.A Noire, keeping you on your toes throughout your gameplay.
Alan Wake is available on Xbox 360, Xbox One, and PC platforms, typically priced around $30 USD.
24. Bioshock Infinite
While Bioshock Infinite and L.A. Noire may appear vastly different at first glance, a closer look reveals similarities that fans of the detective noir genre would appreciate. Set in the beguiling flying city of Columbia, Bioshock Infinite builds a strong narrative that balances ambiguity with revelation, reminiscent of L.A. Noire's plot twists and storytelling style. Both games engage players with richly detailed environments and intricate narratives that unfold through character-driven storytelling and exploration. Just as L.A. Noire places you in the shoes of Detective Cole Phelps to solve a series of crimes, Bioshock Infinite puts you in the role of Booker DeWitt, whose mission to find a mysterious woman unfolds into a captivating story of redemption and revelation.
Both games are also poised on a razor's edge of moral ambiguity, challenging players to make choices with significant consequences. L.A. Noire presents you with the grim realities of Los Angeles in the 1940s, while Bioshock Infinite's Columbia is a floating utopia with a dark underside. No decision is black and white in either game, making for a more immersive and emotionally complex gameplay experience. Just like Detective Phelps interrogates suspects and analyzes clues in L.A. Noire, Bioshock Infinite's Booker interacts with his surroundings and gathers resources, requiring sharp observational skills and tactical thinking from players.
Bioshock Infinite is available on PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and PC, typically priced around $30 USD. This epic adventure awaits you in the clouds above, where mysteries and moral dilemmas unravel in a city on the brink of revolution.
23. TellTale's The Walking Dead
If you loved playing L.A. Noire, then I believe you'll also enjoy Telltale's The Walking Dead series. Both games feature strong storytelling and character development, and force you into making tough decisions that mold the story around your choices. This element of dynamic storytelling is a strong point in both games. While L.A. Noire has you make choices in terms of clues and leads to follow, The Walking Dead makes your character's relationships and future decisions to be highly influenced by your choices. In terms of gameplay, while they are different at their core — the former being more about crime scene investigation and interrogation, the latter about survival in a post-apocalyptic world — they both exert pressure on you to make the right decisions, as they can significantly affect the direction and turn of events in the game.
Another similarity between TellTale's The Walking Dead and L.A. Noire are their unique visual styles. L.A. Noire is celebrated for its realistic representation and facial animations, making it feel like you are actually living in the 1940s. Similarly, The Walking Dead also captures your attention with its appealing comic book-like visual style, paying tribute to its origins as a comic series. This mixture of compelling visuals, along with the game's heavy emphasis on narrative, mirrors L.A. Noire's feat of delivering a great movie-like experience in video game format. So, if you are in search for a game that offers beautiful graphics, riveting storyline, and choice-driven gameplay, TellTale's The Walking Dead is worth checking out.
TellTale's The Walking Dead is available on multiple platforms including PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android, and PC, typically priced around $25 USD.
22. Deus Ex: Human Revolution
Deus Ex: Human Revolution shares the intricate story-driven aspect analogous to L.A. Noire, both being deep and immersive. Like L.A. Noire, Human Revolution also puts you in the shoes of an investigator, but this time, you're set in a cyberpunk universe where society is divided by mechanical augmentations. The investigative sequences are reminiscent of L.A. Noire's meticulous detective work, where you piece together evidence, engage in dialogue-driven confrontations and witness a story full of twists and turns unfold. The game is just as story-centric as L.A. Noire, with the narrative being influenced by player choices and actions.
The look and feel of the cities in both games are engrossingly atmospheric. Similar to LA Noire's faithfully recreated late 40's Los Angeles, Deus Ex: Human Revolution offers an incredibly detailed vision of the future, complete with bustling cityscapes, shady underground areas, and slick technology-laden interiors. Another note is the use of interrogation and conversation mechanics in both games - Deus Ex: Human Revolution adopts a similar approach in its dialogues where your choices influence the game's narrative, getting you more immersed into the game world.
Deus Ex: Human Revolution is available on PS3, Xbox 360, Windows, OS X, Wii U, and is typically priced around $20 USD.
21. Blade Runner
If you enjoyed L.A. Noire, then you'll certainly appreciate Blade Runner. Just like L.A. Noire, Blade Runner is a detective story deeply rooted in a distinct visual and audio aesthetic that fully immerses the player. Both games take inspiration from film noir, a cinematic genre of the mid 20th century's Hollywood recognized for its stylish crime dramas, moral ambiguity, and complex character archetypes. Though L.A. Noire is set in the 1940s Los Angeles and Blade Runner in cyberpunk 2019 Los Angeles, they both magnificently capture the atmospheric tension and grim realities projected in film noir, through their meticulous and vivid graphics, gloomy lighting, and hard-boiled dialogues.
In terms of gameplay, the investigative mechanics of both Blade Runner and L.A. Noire are quite similar. Much like in L.A. Noire, where you had to search crime scenes for clues, interrogate suspects, and make deductions, Blade Runner also offers detective gameplay that requires some thoughtful puzzle-solving. The non-linear storytelling of Blade Runner highlights alternative paths and endings based on the player's choices, reminiscent of the branching narrative of L.A. Noire. Furthermore, in both games, not everything is as black and white as it seems, and sometimes blurring the lines between good and evil is necessary to achieve your goals.
Blade Runner is currently available through digital distribution platforms like GOG on PC, typically priced around $10 USD.
20. GTA IV
If you truly enjoyed L.A. Noire, then let me tell you - Grand Theft Auto IV (GTA IV) deserves your attention. At their core, both games are open-world crime dramas set in meticulously detailed recreations of iconic American cities: the sun-drenched mid-century Los Angeles in L.A. Noire and modern day New York City, known as Liberty City in GTA IV. Both games immerse you in an atmosphere teeming with crime, lawlessness, and different shades of morality. Similarly, the story-driven missions in both games often require a solid strategy and savvy navigation through a spider web of choices and consequences.
While L.A. Noire focuses more on detective work, interrogations, and puzzle solving, GTA IV has a more action-based format. Yet they are very parallel in terms of their narrative depth. L.A. Noire gives you a dose of examination and interrogation mechanics wrapped in a detective storyline, whereas GTA IV will let you live the life of a conflicted immigrant turned criminal, complete with exciting car chases, gun battles and a storyline touched with dramatic moments and unexpected turns. In both games, you often find yourself straddling the line between law enforcer and criminal, which gives a wonderfully grey perspective to the narrative. A shared strength of these two games is their remarkable character development and the memorable personalities you interact with. So if you crave a game filled with intense action, rich storytelling and a deeply immersive world, GTA IV should undeniably be your next stop.
Grand Theft Auto IV is available on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC platforms, typically priced around $19.99 USD.
19. Indigo Prophecy
Indigo Prophecy, or Fahrenheit as it's known outside of North America, is a game that bears quite a bit similarity to L.A. Noire, one you're no stranger to. Just like L.A. Noire, it is narrative-driven, and steeped in interactive storytelling. Centered around a series of puzzling murders in New York City, it allows for the player to control different characters and gradually unfurl the unfolding mystery much as you did in your pursuit of criminals across post-war Los Angeles in L.A. Noire. It incorporates interactive aspects wherein you’ll engage in dialogue and make choices that affect the storyline, jumping seamlessly between characters as their storylines converge.
The cinematic, noir-inspired visuals of Indigo Prophecy might also feel quite familiar if you enjoyed the aesthetic of L.A. Noire. The mood and atmosphere of a city riddled with crime is brought to life with impressive attention to detail. The way the narrative unfolds through character-specific vignettes is reminiscent of the case-by-case storytelling in L.A. Noire. Additionally, both games rely heavily on solving puzzles and making correct dialogue choices to progress, with your actions and decisions having a direct impact on how events unfold. If you relished the detective work and the logical reasoning required to progress in L.A. Noire, Indigo Prophecy would be an excellent choice to satisfy your appetite for the genre.
Indigo Prophecy is available on PlayStation iterations (PS2, PS3, PS4, PS5), Xbox (original, 360), as well as Stram (PC), typically priced around $15 USD.
18. Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 offers an uncannily similar experience to L.A. Noire but in a completely distinct setting. Just like in L.A. Noire, you evolve as the central character unraveling multiple storylines. The primary narrative is centered around outlaws at the end of the Wild West era, offering a cinematic narrative and engrossing storyline. Investigation and decision making are crucial aspects of the game, and just as in L.A Noire, your choices will heavily affect the outcome. Furthermore, exhaustive side missions, with their own minor storylines, and engaging optional activities provide a similar sense of open-world explorations, which you've enjoyed in L.A. Noire.
Apart from taking on missions, the game lets you interact with NPCs, each one having their own unique personality, bringing in-depth and immersive dynamics into gameplay, reminiscent of L.A. Noire. The lighting, music, sound design, and the environmental details of Red Dead Redemption 2 are crafted to an extent to ensure cinematic realism, just as L.A. Noire treasured vintage and contemporary atmospheres. The tensely realistic facial expressions and body language, which you must have loved in L.A. Noire, are equally mesmerizing in Red Dead Redemption 2. There is a compulsion behind each decision you make, and every action carries a repercussion, much like the moral quandaries you faced in L.A Noire.
Red Dead Redemption 2 is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC, typically priced around $40 USD.
17. D4: Dark Dreams Don’t Die
If you loved L.A. Noire for its incredible blend of atmospheric storytelling, believable characters, and engaging detective work, then D4: Dark Dreams Don’t Die will undoubtedly capture your interest. This episodic graphic adventure comes from the mind of Hidetaka Suehiro (known as Swery), a video game director known for his eccentrically bizarre plots and mechanics. Like L.A. Noire, D4 puts you into the shoes of a detective - in this case, a time-travelling one named David Young, who uses his unique ability to solve intriguing murder mysteries. Like L.A. Noire, the game will have you collecting clues, interacting with various characters, and piecing together the narrative's complex puzzle.
What sets D4 apart, and why you're likely to enjoy it if you love L.A. Noire, is its unique blend of quirky humour, surreal atmosphere, and deeply engrossing story. While L.A. Noire stuck to a relatively realistic portrayal of a noir-inspired 1940s Los Angeles, D4 isn't afraid to get wacky, weird, and heartfelt, often all at the same time. Yet, beneath its seemingly chaotic surface, the game's detective work involves coming up with complex deductions and solving challenging puzzles - sort of like the interrogation sequences in L.A. Noire but dialled up in terms of eccentricity. If you loved the meticulous investigation work in L.A. Noire, coupled with an intriguing story that keeps you guessing, D4 might well be your next gaming obsession.
D4: Dark Dreams Don’t Die is available on PC and Xbox One, typically priced around $15 USD.
16. The Witcher 3
Like L.A. Noire, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a character-driven narrative game where your choices matter. Both games focus heavily on story and character interactions, and in both games, you'll spend a lot of time exploring the world and talking to NPCs. In L.A. Noire, you'll conduct interviews and look for clues to solve crimes; in The Witcher 3, you'll talk to people to get quests and information that will help you in your journey. While the setting and gameplay are different, both games have a certain grit and realism that make their respective worlds feel alive and grounded.
The Witcher 3 also shares some similarities with L.A. Noire in terms of gameplay style. Both games feature third-person perspectives and allow you to interact with the environment and objects within it as part of the gameplay. Additionally, just as L.A. Noire has investigation sections where you need to carefully examine your surroundings to uncover clues, The Witcher 3 boasts witcher senses - a special ability that allows Geralt (the protagonist) to see things that others cannot, a mechanic which adds depth to the game’s numerous quests. Both games value investigation, detective work, and making conclusions based on collected information, making them compelling for fans of crime-solving narratives.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC, typically priced around $40 USD.
15. Bully
If you savored the narrative depth and immersive world-building of L.A. Noire, you're going to find the Bully game equally engaging. Produced by Rockstar Games, the same brains behind L.A Noire, Bully weaves a similar dense narrative. The game is devised around an intricate storyline that evolves with your decisions, much like the cases you cracked in L.A. Noire. Further, it nestles within an ecosystem as rich and reactive as the world that L.A. Noire unfolded in, with non-playable characters who manifest wide behavioral arrays based on your proceedings.
Instead of a battle-hardened detective in the post-war era, though, Bully sets you in the shoes of a mischievous student navigating life at a boarding school. Rockstar's distinguishing mature writing shines through here as well, dealing with themes of teenage rebellion, resilience and schoolyard politics. Just like L.A. Noire integrated thoughtful puzzle-solving within its larger narrative, Bully also fully embraces puzzle-solving and mini-games as integral classroom activities within its game-play, enhancing the realism of its school setting.
Bully is available on Windows, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Wii, Xbox, and Xbox 360, typically priced around $15 USD.
14. The Last of Us
If you enjoyed LA Noire, then you're definitely going to enjoy the dynamics, emotional depth and moral complexities of The Last of Us. Similar to LA Noire, The Last of Us presents a beautifully rendered, yet grim world that's brought to life through stunning graphics and meticulously designed settings. This is not just another survival game, but a well-paced narrative driven by complex characters similar to the LA Noire. The protagonist’s tough choices, and the emotional intimacy between the characters throughout their journey, recall the noirish mood and character interaction of LA Noire.
What The Last of Us has in common with LA Noire also includes its rich story lines and well-polished dialogues. Both games feature strong character arcs with great emotional depth, resulting from their experiences and struggles. The way the stories are unveiled in both games is in a subtly crafted linear fashion, where uncovering the truth in the narrative is stunningly immersive. While The Last of Us leans more towards an apocalyptic survival journey rather than a detective narrative, it still echoes the investigative dialogues, deep character interactions, plot progression and ethical dilemmas that you loved in LA Noire.
The Last of Us is available on PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4, typically priced around $20 USD.
13. Sherlock Holmes: Crimes & Punishments
If you loved the cinematic storytelling and complex decision-making processes of L.A. Noire, then Sherlock Holmes: Crimes & Punishments will definitely pique your interest. Similarly to L.A. Noire, it leans heavily on detective work and logical thinking, offering a variety of challenging mysteries that you, as Sherlock Holmes, must solve. The game takes place in a beautifully designed Victorian-era London and revolves around a core mechanic of observation and deduction. You have to consider every detail, assemble the clues into a deduction board, and draw conclusions. But these conclusions aren't always straightforward, and the game often presents you with moral dilemmas, allowing you to decide the character's fate like in L.A.Noire.
Furthermore, the game successfully replicates the methodical and patient nature of detective work just like L.A. Noire. Sherlock Holmes: Crimes & Punishments sets itself apart with its unique mini-games that can range from lock-picking to conducting intricate experiments. The game also partakes in a lot of the same interactive dialogue that you loved from L.A. Noire, driving the narrative and helping you gather the clues and evidence you need to solve each case. Unique to Crimes & Punishments is the addition of Sherlock's extraordinary abilities of disguise and character profiling which adds another fascinating layer of gameplay. If the deeply fulfilling stories and mysteries of L.A. Noire gripped you, Sherlock Holmes: Crimes & Punishments will hook you with its choice-driven narrative and meticulous attention to detail.
Sherlock Holmes: Crimes & Punishments is available on PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and PC, typically priced around $30 USD.
12. Watch Dogs
If you were a fan of L.A. Noire, you'll see similar elements in the game Watch Dogs that you'll love. Just like L.A. Noire, Watch Dogs provides an atmospheric open-world environment to explore, while keeping you on your toes with a gripping storyline. This time round, instead of being a detective in the 1940s Los Angeles, you'll navigate through the modern-day city of Chicago as Aiden Pearce, an expert hacker seeking revenge on those who harmed his family. Whether it's exploiting city infrastructure or hacking into personal databases, your toolset certainly deviates from the conventional, but you'll find yourself solving numerous mysteries just as you did in L.A. Noire.
Watch Dogs takes the detective work and narrative focus of L.A. Noire into a tech-enthused context, throwing in compelling elements of stealth, action and adventure. This combination results in myriad exciting challenges. Like navigating the moral gray areas of L.A Noire's interrogation scenarios, Watch Dogs positions you in morally challenging situations where you decide how to use your hacking abilities. It's a perfect match for L.A. Noire fans craving an immersive, story-driven game that combines an enigmatic narrative, complex characters, and a stunningly detailed world, but with a modern, tech-heavy twist.
Watch Dogs is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, and PC, typically priced around $20 USD.
11. Until Dawn
One of the ways Until Dawn proves similar to L.A. Noire is in its narrative-driven gameplay and decision-based storyline. Both games focus on player choice, with decisions directly affecting the overall progression and end of the game. Just as you navigated your way through the crime-filled streets of 1940's Los Angeles in L.A. Noire, in Until Dawn, you're tasked with keeping a group of individuals alive by making choices for them under extreme pressure. The stories of both games are deeply engaging, filled with suspense, compelling characters, and numerous intricate, unpredictable plot twists.
Moreover, Until Dawn doesn't skimp on detail. It shares L.A. Noire's grounded and atmospheric setting that significantly contributes to the experience. While L.A. Noire revels in the gritty, neon-lit cityscape, Until Dawn takes a different direction, plunging players into a haunting, eerie mountainside where danger lurks around every corner, not unlike the suspense-filled alleys in L.A. Noire. This, along with the brilliant facial capture and voice acting used in both games, creates a cinematic feel guaranteed to draw you into their respective worlds.
Until Dawn is available on PlayStation 4, typically priced around $20 USD.
10. Resident Evil 2
Resident Evil 2 and L.A. Noire might seem like entirely different games at first glance, but if you enjoyed the latter, you'd definitely find elements to love in the former. Both games present a rich narrative to their players with the setting being a highlight in each of them. In L.A. Noire, you've immersed yourself in the dark underbelly of the 1940s Los Angeles. Now, imagine the same intricate storytelling and detailed environment but set in the zombie apocalypse-stricken Raccoon City. The story in Resident Evil 2 sways away from the black and white world of detectives and engages you in a suspense-driven survival journey that will keep you at the edge of your seat.
One key aspect of L.A. Noire that you likely appreciated is the depth of its gameplay mechanics, which entailed solving complex puzzles and making difficult choices that affect the outcome of your investigations. Resident Evil 2 offers a similar level of depth, but in a different context. Instead of piecing together clues to crack a case, you'll be solving intricate puzzles to maneuver your way around the haunted city, and making crucial decisions that can influence the survival of your character. Combat in Resident Evil 2 is also strategic, having similarities to L.A. Noire's gunplay mechanics. The game also boasts impressive graphics, making it visually akin to the realistic, high-quality graphics of L.A. Noire.
Resident Evil 2 is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, typically priced around $30 USD.
9. Control
If you're searching for games similar to L.A. Noire, Control should definitely be on your list. There are striking resemblances in the narrative design between the two games that make Control a perfect choice for L.A. Noire enthusiasts. Just like in L.A. Noire, Control has you unravel a complex and mysterious storyline while trying to balance your ability to control the supernatural. The narrative is driven by the protagonist's quest to understand her past, quite akin to L.A. Noire's Cole Phelps' endeavors.
The world-building is amazingly detailed in both games, providing you with a rich environment to explore. Control's world is filled with intriguing lore, delivered in forms like documents and multimedia that you need to discover, somewhat akin to L.A. Noire's evidence-based gameplay. Although Control leans more towards supernatural with telekinetic abilities and otherworldly dimensions, the sense of mystery unfolding with every piece of information and the cinematic storytelling definitely make it recall L.A. Noire's atmosphere. It's also worth mentioning that the performances in Control have a similar top-notch feel, carrying the story with grit and gravitas.
Control is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows, and Nintendo Switch, typically priced around $30 USD.
8. Assassin's Creed Odyssey
At first glance, Assassin's Creed Odyssey and L.A. Noire may seem like two drastically different video games. However, if you enjoyed your L.A. Noire experience, there are similar elements that you will absolutely adore in Assassin's Creed Odyssey. Both games emphasize a strong narrative driven by choice and investigation. Odyssey allows you to navigate a compelling storyline where decisions you make can heavily influence the endgame, similar to the choice-driven narrative arcs experienced in L.A. Noire. Additionally, both games are set in rich historical contexts, complimented by detailed and visually stunning environments.
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, like L.A. Noire, incorporates an investigative element. As in Noire, where you played a detective piecing together clues to solve cases, Odyssey also represents this aspect through its quests. In many missions, you are prompted to find clues, interact with non-playable characters, and make decisions based on information you gather, closely mirroring the detective work in L.A. Noire. Additionally, Odyssey is equipped with an interesting dialogue system. Here, you're given the freedom to interact with characters in various ways, quite often leading to unpredictable results. This system is similar to the interrogation sequences in L.A. Noire, which allows players to determine the mystery's outcome by choosing dialogue options.
Assassin's Creed Odyssey is available on Playstation 4, Xbox One, and PC platforms, typically priced around $60 USD.
7. Hitman 2
Both Hitman 2 and L.A. Noire are top-tier games that cleverly execute the concept of deduction and strategy. Just like in L.A. Noire where you had to meticulously search for clues, decode puzzles, and piece together a story to solve a case, in Hitman 2 you play the role of Agent 47, where you need to analyze, plan, and strategize your actions to eliminate your targets. The mechanics of the two games put a heavy emphasis on the player's observational skills, putting you in the role of a detective in one and an assassin in the other. If you enjoyed the thought-provoking nature of L.A. Noire, Hitman 2 offers a similar experience with its creatively designed missions, unique challenges, and immersive gameplay.
What really stands out is how both games deliver a compelling narrative. Just as you unraveled an intriguing story of corruption and crime in L.A. Noire, Hitman 2 presents a gripping tale of conspiracy and manipulation, unfolding as you progress through different missions. Moreover, Hitman 2 has environmental diversity that ranges from bustling Indian markets to serene suburban streets, each locale beautifully rendered and laden with opportunities to interact with. It is truly engaging to figure out the countless ways to approach your mission. Therefore, if you loved the story-driven narrative and the freedom to solve the case in your own unique way in L.A. Noire, you will definitely appreciate the similar open-world expedition and the emphasis on player-driven narrative in Hitman 2.
Hitman 2 is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows, typically priced around $60 USD.
6. Quantum Break
While Quantum Break and L.A. Noire are distinct games by nature, there are certain aspects that link them, creating a unique and similar gameplay experience. Both of these games exude an intense narrative focus, rich in the department of character development and story progression. The way they utilise interactive storytelling is somewhat reminiscent of L.A. Noire's investigative methods, where player's decisions impact the story unfolding. Quantum Break also shares a dedication to creating a richly nuanced, cinematic atmosphere, just as L.A. Noire brilliantly recreated the feel of post-war Los Angeles.
Quantum Break, like L.A. Noire, uses a third-person perspective which offers better situational awareness and contributes to more immersive gameplay. Quantum Break's unique selling point is its exceptional manipulation of time, which you can use to solve various puzzles and get past obstacles, somewhat mirroring L.A. Noire's crime scene analyses and clues gathering process. Furthermore, Remedy Entertainment's Quantum Break shares L.A. Noire's commitment to delivering a complete and polished original score, that adds depth and dimension to the gameplay.
Quantum Break is available on Xbox One and Windows PC, typically priced around $30 USD.
5. Far Cry 5
Let me begin by saying Far Cry 5 shares some intriguing similarities with LA Noire, especially in terms of narrative depth and the importance of decision making. Just like LA Noire, Far Cry 5 offers a dark, complex storyline which unfolds based on the choices you make throughout the game. An extensive range of characters with their own unique personalities and motivations creates an equally immersive experience that makes you feel part of the unfolding drama. The narrative weight and the element of choice echo the dynamics of LA Noire, where contextual decisions alter outcomes directly.
Far Cry 5 also resembles LA Noire in the way it emphasizes exploration and discovery. The vast, open world of Hope County invites you to explore and interact with your environment like the sprawling cityscape of LA. Equally, the game carries a rich atmosphere with subtle music cues and overtones of suspense that echo LA Noire's atmospheric noir setting. And while the gameplay in Far Cry 5 is certainly more action-oriented than LA Noire, its approach to mission structure has a similar feel. The missions can be tackled in non-linear fashion, leading to emergent scenarios and gameplay moments that keep the experience diverse and engaging.
Far Cry 5 is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, typically priced around $60 USD.
4. Fahrenheit
If you enjoyed the narrative-driven gameplay and loose, open-ended structure of L.A. Noire, then you're bound to appreciate Fahrenheit (also known as Indigo Prophecy in North America). Both games belong to the neo-noir genre with a strong emphasis on storytelling and character development. Narrative structure in these games is steered via player decisions, leading to different experiences for each player. The captivating story and innovative decision-based gameplay make Fahrenheit an excellent follow-up play to L.A. Noire. In this game, you will be diving into an intriguing plot filled with mystery and suspense much like the dark, gritty, film-noir atmosphere you meet in L.A. Noire.
Pivoting from detective procedures in L.A. Noire to the supernatural thriller genre in Fahrenheit, you still keep the investigative element alive. Through elements such as dialogue selection and psychological depth, Fahrenheit creates a lingering sense of tension that continues to propel the narrative forward in ways that are reminiscent of L.A. Noire's most quiet and introspective moments. Meanwhile, a unique characteristic of Fahrenheit is the 'mental health score' for the protagonist, which further adds a layer of realism to the game; this can be seen as a spiritual precursor to Phelps' doubt, truth, and lie system in L.A. Noire.
Fahrenheit is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, typically priced around $15 USD.
3. Mafia II
If you enjoyed the gritty, atmospheric storytelling in L.A. Noire, then Mafia II could be right up your alley. Much like L.A. Noire, Mafia II is an action-adventure game that places you in the shoes of a character deeply entrenched in a criminal underworld, except this time, the setting is the mob-controlled city of Empire Bay in the late 1940s and early '50s. The game leans heavily into its period setting with a beautifully realized world, complete with vintage cars and era-appropriate music. There's a similar attention to detail here as Rockstar's L.A. Noire, offering an immersive narrative that weaves its way through a backdrop of crime, passion, and betrayal.
Mafia II has a lot of the gameplay elements you enjoyed in L.A. Noire. Although it's a bit more combat-focused, Mafia II features a heavy emphasis on story and character development, so you get that same cinematic feel from your gameplay experience. The navigation of the city, interrogation scenes, and the balance between action and exploration will definitely remind you of L.A. Noire. Also, it's important to note that the decisions you make throughout the game have an impact on the storyline, creating a sense of meaning and consequence to your actions.
Mafia II is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, typically priced around $30 USD.
2. Dishonored 2
Dishonored 2, much like L.A. Noire, thrives on its rich and immersive story line. In both games, you assume the role of a detective with unique abilities who uses their skills to uncover surprising plot twists and conspiracies. Just like L.A. Noire's incredible 1940s Hollywood atmosphere, Dishonored 2 takes you deep into the brilliant and detailed world of Karnaca - a city where mysticism and industry collide. If you loved the narrative freedom L.A. Noire provided, you'll be thrilled to witness the depth of choice and consequence in Dishonored 2.
Another commonality between the two games lies in their emphasis on problem-solving and innovative gameplay. L.A. Noire has you scrupulously examining crime scenes and decrypting suspects' expressions, while Dishonored 2 equips you with a wide range of supernatural powers and weapons to approach obstacles in different ways. Stealth, chaos or diplomacy - the game adjusts to your playing style and you notice the impact of your decisions in the world around you. Much like L.A. Noire, Dishonored 2 values creativity in problem-solving while rewarding careful planning, making it a feast for strategy lovers.
Dishonored 2 is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows, typically priced around $20 USD.
1. The Evil Within 2
The Evil Within 2, like L.A. Noire, is a game that thrives on its essence of mystery and deeply narrated storyline. Both games offer you intricate plots that shroud you in suspense, captivating your attention from the get-go. While L.A. Noire places you in the trenches of criminal investigations, The Evil Within 2 suspends you in suspense blending psychological thriller with elements of detective-like investigation. The character development in both games assists in creating a compelling narrative - Much like Cole Phelps in L.A. Noire, Sebastian Castellanos in The Evil Within 2 is a layered character with a haunted past and a mission, augmenting the emotional depth of the game.
These two games approach exploration and combat in a very similar manner. In The Evil Within 2, just like how it was in L.A. Noire, detailed environments are laid open for you to comb through for clues and solve chilling puzzles. The combat, though more frequent and gruesome in The Evil Within 2, uses a similar strategy-based approach as L.A. Noire. You must utilise your resources and surroundings wisely. Also, the third-person perspective in both games enhances gameplay by providing a more extensive view of the environment and impending threats. If you loved the intuitive puzzles, strategical action, and immersive narrative of L.A. Noire, The Evil Within 2 won't disappoint.
The Evil Within 2 is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, typically priced around $39.99 USD.
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