The game is based on investigating crimes in the style of classic detective stories, where the player plays the role of a police officer Pelham Stake must not only collect evidence, but also analyze the behavior of suspects based on their facial expressions - a revolutionary technology at that time MotionScan allowed us to convey the smallest emotions of the characters. However, for readers of our site, it is the cars that are of particular interest: from patrol officers Ford Super Deluxe 1941 to luxurious Cadillac Series 62 1947, each of which can be examined in detail, hear the sound of the engine, and even participate in chases taking into account the physics of that time.
But why a review of the game on a car site? The point is that L.A. Noire is one of the few projects where cars are not just a background, but part of the gameplay and atmosphere. There's no arcade racing or unrealistic drifting here: driving 1940s cars requires care, taking into account their weight, braking distance and even tire wear on gravel roads. For retro car collectors, the game becomes a virtual museum, and for ordinary players - a lesson in the history of the automotive industry.
Plot and atmosphere: why Los Angeles in 1947 is so realistic
L.A. Noire takes the player to post-war Los Angeles, a city where corruption is rampant and crime is disguised as the glitz of Hollywood. Main character, detective Col Pelham, goes from patrol officer to homicide investigator, solving cases based on real-life crimes of the era. The atmosphere of the game is built on contrasts: luxurious mansions of Beverly Hills are adjacent to slums, and police officers are adjacent to their Ford V8 chasing gangsters on Buick Roadmaster.
Particular attention is paid to detail: the streets are filled with billboards from the 1940s, the radio broadcasts jazz and news from those years, and every district of the city is from Downtown up to Hollywood — reproduced with architectural precision. For car enthusiasts, this means the opportunity to drive along historical routes, e.g. Mulholland Drive, where silent film stars once passed.
Fun fact: the game's creators consulted with historians and even reenacted real-life crimes such as the "Black Dahlia" (prototype of one of the episodes). It does L.A. Noire not only a game, but also an interactive textbook on US history.
Cars in L.A. Noire: a complete guide for car enthusiasts
One of the main advantages of the game is collection of 93 cars, each of which corresponds to real models from the 1930s and 1940s. Here are the key categories:
- 🚔 Police cars: Ford Super Deluxe 1941 (main patrol car), Chevrolet Fleetmaster 1942 (for detectives). They can be stolen, but this will affect the hero's reputation.
- 🕵️ Detective sedans: Hudson Commodore 1947 (the main character's car), Packard Clipper 1947 (for senior investigators). These models are distinguished by comfort and speed.
- 💎 Luxury cars: Cadillac Series 62 1947 (status symbol), Lincoln Continental 1942 (gangster car). They can be found in wealthy areas.
- 🚗 Civil vehicles: Ford Coupe 1940, Chevrolet Stylemaster 1946 - the most common on the streets. They are slower, but more maneuverable.
- 🚛 Trucks and special vehicles: Ford COE 1941 (fire trucks), GMC CCW 1941 (trucks for transporting bodies). They are more difficult to manage due to their size.
All cars in the game have unique physical models: for example, Cadillac accelerates smoothly thanks to the powerful V8, and Ford Coupe Can skid when cornering due to rear-wheel drive. Also taken into account wear system: During long chases, cars begin to smoke and the engine may stall.
To unlock all the cars in the game, find the hidden garages in the areas Downtown and Hollywood. They often contain rare models that cannot be stolen on the street.
For those who want to dive into details, the game has free ride mode (Free Roam), where you can ride around the city without restrictions. This is an ideal opportunity to explore the interiors, listen to the sounds of engines, and even have a photo session with a retro car against the backdrop of neon signs.
Gameplay and controls: how driving is implemented
Unlike other games Rockstar, where machine control is often arcade-like, in L.A. Noire the developers tried to bring physics closer to the realism of the 1940s. Here are the key features:
- 🔧 Lack of modern assistants: no ABS, ESP or automatic transmission. You need to brake early, especially on wet roads.
- 🛣️ Roads of that time: the asphalt is uneven and gravel sections reduce traction. At high speed the car may skid.
- 🔊 Soundtrack: Each engine has a unique sound. For example, V8 from Cadillac growls in a bass voice, and Ford inline four makes a characteristic “rattling” sound.
- 🚨 Physics-based chase: In a collision, cars deform realistically, and long runs at high speeds lead to overheating.
The game controls take some getting used to. For example, hand brake (Space on PC) here works like a real lever - you need to hold it to control the skid. A gear shift (in manual mode) requires synchronization with engine speed, otherwise the car jerks.
⚠️ Attention: There are no tips for driving a retro car in the game. If you are used to modern simulators, the first hours behind the wheel L.A. Noire may seem complicated. We recommend starting with slow machines like Chevrolet Stylemasterto feel the physics.
Interestingly, the game even takes into account tire wear: During long runs at high speed, grip deteriorates, and the car can drift when cornering. This adds realism, but requires the player to pay attention.
Technical features: MotionScan and other innovations
L.A. Noire became revolutionary thanks to technology MotionScan, which made it possible to record the facial expressions of actors with unprecedented accuracy. For this it was used 32 high resolution cameras, recording every facial movement. As a result, the player could determine whether a suspect was lying by subtle changes in the expression of their eyes or lips.
However, other technical aspects are no less important for car enthusiasts:
| Feature | Description | Impact on gameplay |
|---|---|---|
| Physics of cars | Takes into account weight, load distribution, drive type and road conditions | Chase on Cadillac will be different from the chase on Ford Coupe |
| Damage system | Cars are deformed during an accident, the engine may stall due to overheating | You will have to monitor the condition of the car during long missions |
| Dynamic weather | Rain reduces traction and fog reduces visibility | Affects driving and investigation tactics |
| Realistic lighting | Car headlights illuminate the road like they did in the 1940s (weak incandescent bulbs) | Night pursuits require caution due to poor visibility |
Another unique feature - wrinkle system on the faces of the characters. NPCs develop realistic skin folds based on their age and lifestyle, adding depth to interviews with suspects. For example, a heavy smoker will have yellow teeth and wrinkles around the lips.
How does the interrogation system work?
During interrogations, the player must choose one of three reactions: Truth (believe the suspect) Doubt (ask clarifying questions) or Lie (accuse of lying). A mistake in choice can lead to business failure. The system analyzes the character's facial expressions, intonation and gestures, so sometimes the correct answer is counterintuitive.
L.A. Noire and the real story: what cars were there in 1947
The game strives for historical accuracy, so most of the cars in it are real models produced in 1937–1948. Here are some facts about cars of that era:
- 🏭 Post-war boom: After World War II, the United States experienced an automobile boom. Many models presented in the game (for example, Ford Super Deluxe), were the first "civilian" vehicles after wartime.
- 🛢️ Fuel and economy: Gasoline cost approx. 20 cents per gallon (≈5 liters), but due to post-war savings, many drivers preferred compact cars like Chevrolet Fleetline.
- 🎨 Design: Cars of the 1940s were distinguished by smooth, streamlined shapes, chrome details and massive bumpers. This can be seen in the game Buick Roadmaster or Packard Clipper.
- 🚓 Police cars: In 1947, patrol cars were often modified from production models, adding sirens and radios. B L.A. Noire this is reflected in the example Ford Super Deluxe with police coloring.
It’s interesting that some of the cars in the game are rare. For example, Stutz Bearcat 1931 (which can be found in one of the bosses' garages) was one of the most expensive and exclusive models of its time. Today such cars are millions of dollars at auctions.
For comparison, in the table below are the real characteristics of some models from the game and their game analogues:
| Model in game | Real prototype | Engine (real) | Max. speed (game) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hudson Commodore | Hudson Commodore 1947 | 3.8L I6, 128 hp | ≈140 km/h |
| Cadillac Series 62 | Cadillac Series 62 1947 | 5.7L V8, 150 hp | ≈160 km/h |
| Ford Super Deluxe | Ford Super Deluxe 1941 | 3.9L V8, 90 hp | ≈120 km/h |
| Packard Clipper | Packard Clipper 1947 | 4.7L I8, 165 hp | ≈150 km/h |
Playthrough Tips: How to Get the Most out of the Game
To fully enjoy L.A. Noire, especially from an automotive perspective, follow these guidelines:
☑️ Checklist for car enthusiasts in L.A. Noire
It is also worth paying attention to the following nuances:
- 🔍 Use the map: The game does not have GPS, so you will have to navigate using a paper map (
Mon PC). This adds realism, but can be awkward. - 🎧 Turn on the radio: The cars have radios with music and news from the 1940s. This helps you immerse yourself in the atmosphere.
- 👮 Do not abuse theft: If you steal cars too often, your partner will make comments and your reputation in the department will worsen.
- 📸 Take photographs of evidence: Some missions require you to photograph tire tracks or damage to cars. Use the camera (
Fon PC).
⚠️ Attention: The game has a bug due to which some cars can get stuck in environmental textures (for example, fences or walls). If this happens, try reloading the last checkpoint or changing vehicles.
For those who want to go deeper into the technical side, the game has Free Ride mode (Free Roam), which opens after completing certain missions. In this mode you can:
- Test cars on different roads (asphalt, gravel, wet asphalt).
- Arrange a chase with the police (if you break the rules).
- Look for hidden locations, for example, an abandoned airfield with rare cars.
L.A. Noire VR: how the game has changed in virtual reality
A version was released in 2017 L.A. Noire: The VR Case Files, adapted for virtual reality helmets. In it the player can:
- 👓 View evidence in 3D: for example, handling cartridges or examining damage to cars by bending and turning objects.
- 🚗 Control cars using a gamepad or steering wheel: In VR, driving physics feel more realistic, especially when cornering.
- 🗣️ Conduct face-to-face interrogations: Suspects' facial expressions are even more convincing when they look directly at you.
However, the VR version also has limitations:
- 🎮 Reduced gameplay: Only 7 cases from the original game are available.
- 🖥️ PC requirements: For comfortable gaming you need a powerful video card (at least GTX 1060).
- 🕒 Duration: the passage takes about 10 hours - versus 30+ in the original.
For car enthusiasts, the VR version is interesting because it allows take a closer look at car interiors - from the dashboard Cadillac to the gear shift lever in Ford Super Deluxe. Also in virtual reality it feels better car weight when managing.
VR version L.A. Noire suitable for those who want to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the 1940s, but are not ready to spend dozens of hours playing the full game. However, for a complete automotive experience, it is better to choose the original version.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about L.A. Noire
Is it possible to buy or upgrade cars in the game?
No, in L.A. Noire There is no system for purchasing or tuning cars. All the cars that you use are either given out according to the plot (for example, a service Hudson Commodore), or are stolen from the street. However, in mode Free Roam You can freely transfer between found cars.
What is the fastest car in the game?
The fastest car in L.A. Noire is Cadillac Series 62 1947 with a maximum speed of about 160 km/h. It also handles well in corners thanks to its powerful V8 engine. In second place - Packard Clipper (≈150 km/h), but it is less maneuverable.
Are there real crimes from Los Angeles history in the game?
Yes, several cases in the game are based on real crimes. For example:
- "Black Dahlia" (Elizabeth Short murder case in 1947).
- "Killing Dahlia" (inspired by unsolved crimes of that era).
- Police corruption scandals (reflect the real problems of the LAPD in the 1940s).
The developers consulted with historians and even reproduced some details of the investigations.
Is it possible to play in L.A. Noire on modern consoles?
Yes, the game is available on:
- PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch - remastered version (L.A. Noire: The Complete Edition) with improved graphics.
- PC - via Steam, GOG or Epic Games (requires Windows 7 and above).
- VR — L.A. Noire: The VR Case Files for helmets HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and Valve Index.
There is also a mobile version for iOS and Android, but with reduced gameplay.
Where can I find all the rare cars in the game?
Some rare models are hidden in specific locations:
- Stutz Bearcat 1931 - in the garage of a gangster's house in the area Hollywood.
- Duesenberg Model J - in the hotel parking lot "Biltmore" in Downtown.
- Pierce-Arrow 1936 — near the mansion in Bel Air (appears at night).
- Ford Woody 1946 — on the beach in the area Santa Monica.
Most rare cars only appear at certain times of the day.