The player assumes the role of the titular character, with gameplay revolving around the use of the bullet-time mechanic during firefights — when triggered, time is slowed down to such an extent that the speed at which bullets and other projectiles move is slow enough to be seen by the naked eye. Although Payne's movement is also slowed, the player is still able to and react in real-time, allowing the more time to plan and react during firefights.
Players are initially armed with a 9mm pistol, but as the game progresses, other weapons become accessible, with some weapons able to be dual-wielded for an increase in firepower at the cost of increased ammo consumption. When hurt, Max can replenish health by taking painkillers, which can be found throughout the levels.
The game's AI is dependent on scripted commands: most of the behavior exhibited by enemies (such as taking cover, retreating from the player or throwing grenades) is scripted[citation needed].
Progression through the levels is linear, occasionally incorporating platforming and puzzle-solving elements. The game's storyline is often advanced in-game by the player following Max's internal monologue as the character determines what his next steps should be, breaking between – and sometimes within – levels in order to deliver larger story beats via graphic novel-styled interludes.
In addition to the campaign, the game also features the "Dead on Arrival" game mode, which limits the player to only seven saves per chapter, and the "New York Minute" mode, which forces the player to complete each chapter within an allotted time. Upon completing the game on "Dead on Arrival", the player unlocks "The Last Challenge" (also known as "End Combat" or "Final Battle" in other releases), which puts the player in a firefight with perpetual bullet time against the "Killer Suit" hitmen seen during the later parts of the game's campaign.
