We've been waiting a long time for L.A. Noire. It has come to the point where expectations and anticipation have diminished -- a prime example of the risks of an early PR cycle. The game offers an incredibly interesting premise, however, and will come hot on the heels of Alan Wake.

While it would be foolhardy to predict a sleeper hit out of Rockstar games, picture more Bully and less State of Emergency for this title.

The most exciting aspect of this game is the fact that it's an homage to film noir. Is there a cooler setting than that? I truly hope they can capitalize on this art direction with the gameplay and thematic elements. They are going to have to do something above and beyond conventional video game tropes to fully realize the potential of the art direction.

I picture a slower pace, creative thinking, and smart dialogue. In order to realize a period piece, all the parts need to mesh together. We need more of these holistic experiences in our video games.

That's easier said than done, but Bully pulled it off. Maybe Rockstar has lined up another.