El Paso, Elsewhere is an upcoming video game that promises to offer a unique take on the classic Max Payne formula. The game features a supernatural twist that amps up the action and adds a new layer of intrigue to the familiar gameplay. Players take on the role of a detective named Jack who investigates a series of murders in a small Texan town. Along the way, he discovers that the town is not what it seems, and that he may have to rely on some unorthodox methods to get to the bottom of the case. With its fast-paced shooting and original mechanics, El Paso, Elsewhere is shaping up to be a must-play for fans of the genre.
Strange Scaffold’s new action game, El Paso, Elsewhere, is a clear tribute to the famous pulp-noir action game Max Payne from 2001. However, the writer, director, and voice actor, Xalavier Nelson Jr., aims to modernize this classic for a contemporary audience. El Paso, Elsewhere follows James Savage, a drug addict and folklore researcher, trying to stop his ex-girlfriend, Draculae, from performing a ritual that will destroy the world. Even though the story takes a different path from traditional noir tales, it still features important elements like a flawed protagonist, a femme fatale, and plenty of gunplay and action. The game features a supernatural neo-noir adventure through a dimension-bending motel and a mission to stop the spread of vampires.
As a fan of the original Max Payne games, the hands-on preview of El Paso, Elsewhere thrilled me as the game did not only recreate the familiar feel of movement and shooting, but it also managed to bring new combat options like rolling, kicking off walls into dives, and staking multiple enemies at once. However, the game is challenging with limited resources and requiring strategy around the limited availability of painkillers. The game’s sections featuring horror hip-hop beats and energetic rap fits with the game’s ambiance, though they were scarce in the preview.
Strange Scaffold’s approach is unique as it challenges itself to create a gameplay experience for a Black protagonist with a drug abuse problem precisely. It’s a subject matter that’s new territory for the developer, who aims to get it right with fully acted cutscenes and well-crafted dialogue. El Paso, Elsewhere is set to release on PC and Xbox Series X|S in Fall 2023.
In conclusion, El Paso, Elsewhere is a thrilling and unique take on the Max Payne shooting genre. The game’s combination of supernatural elements and rhythmic gameplay makes for an intense and engaging experience. The setting of El Paso, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, adds an extra layer of depth to the game’s narrative. With its impressive visuals and immersive soundtrack, El Paso, Elsewhere is a true standout in the world of video games. Whether you’re a fan of Max Payne or just looking for something new and exciting to play, El Paso, Elsewhere is definitely worth checking out.
