What are the pros of L.A. Noire?

Compelling hardboiled detective narrative with a strong sense of atmosphere.. Unique theatrical presentation and facial animation technology that remains impressive.. Engaging investigation and interrogation mechanics that reward attention to detail.. A well-written story-driven experience that stands apart from typical open-world action games..

What are the cons of L.A. Noire?

Mandatory Rockstar Games Launcher causes significant startup failures and technical friction.. Severe technical bugs and instability that can render the game unplayable for some users.. Frustrating controls and dated graphics compared to modern standards.. Inconsistent pacing in certain story arcs, with some plot points feeling rushed..

L.A. Noire

In his fight to climb the ranks and do what's right, LAPD detective Cole Phelps must unravel the truth behind a string of arson attacks, conspiracies, and brutal murders, battling the L.A. underworld and even members of his own department.

86%

Very Positive

DevelopersRockstar Leeds, Team Bondi

PublisherRockstar Games

Release DateNov 8, 2011

$19.99

Peak Players3.5K

Metacritic83

PlatformsWindows

Adventure

Strategy

AI Review Summary

L.A. Noire is a highly-regarded hardboiled detective story praised for its unique 1940s atmosphere and theatrical storytelling. However, the PC version is severely hampered by technical issues, including mandatory Rockstar launcher requirements and game-breaking bugs that frequently prevent the game from starting.

Pros

Compelling hardboiled detective narrative with a strong sense of atmosphere.95%
Unique theatrical presentation and facial animation technology that remains impressive.85%
Engaging investigation and interrogation mechanics that reward attention to detail.80%
A well-written story-driven experience that stands apart from typical open-world action games.75%

Cons

Mandatory Rockstar Games Launcher causes significant startup failures and technical friction.95%
Severe technical bugs and instability that can render the game unplayable for some users.90%
Frustrating controls and dated graphics compared to modern standards.60%
Inconsistent pacing in certain story arcs, with some plot points feeling rushed.40%

Notable Mentions

The game is frequently compared to console versions which are reported to be more stable.
The 'Doubt' mechanic has become a culturally iconic meme within the gaming community.
Players often have to spend hours troubleshooting just to get the game to launch on modern hardware.

Confidence: 79%

Based on the 165 most relevant reviewsGenerated on Aug 18, 2026

Game Vitals

Live snapshot

Player Activity

Current peak

180

Peak · last 90 days

602

All-time peak

3.5K

Price

Current price

$19.99

Lowest tracked

$5.99since Jan 13, 2026

Review Sentiment

Launch week

—

Last 30 days

86%

All-time positive

86%

Review Statistics

Total Reviews36.8K

Positive: 31.6K (86%)Negative: 5.2K (14%)

Reviews from Steam Deck

Dev Response Rate

18h

Avg Playtime at Review

75%

Credible Reviews