Dan Houser, former Vice President of Rockstar Games and lead writer of Max Payne 3, reflected on the title in an interview with IGN. He stated that the game did not achieve the success he believed it deserved, and as both a decision-maker and writer, he bears significant responsibility for its reception at the time.
The first two games in the series were developed by Remedy and written by Sam Lake, while Max Payne 3 was developed by Rockstar, shifting the main setting to Brazil and changing its visual and narrative style accordingly. Houser recalls that many players didn't accept this sequel at the time; he specifically notes that many missed Sam Lake's writing.
Discussing the creative process, Houser said he enjoyed writing for Max Payne 3. Compared to open-world games, the linear structure of this title provided a clearer framework for storytelling. He also appreciated the game's loading sequences, on-screen text, and overall presentation, believing the team crafted a digital film noir experience.
The Kotaku article's author offers a different perspective on the game: he appreciates its shooting mechanics and third-person action presentation, but finds the story and overall execution lacking. This is the author's personal opinion. The article also mentions that Remedy and Rockstar are collaborating to remake the first two entries in the series.