Rockstar, the studio behind such classics as GTA and Red Dead Redemption return this May to bring their shocking controversial open-world antics to the 1940s in the shape of L.A. Noire.

The highly anticipated game puts you in the shoes of American detective, Cole Phelps. A veteran from WWII, you could be forgiven for assuming that it’s GTA IV all over again, although this time in a 1940s New York. However, L.A. Noire brings with it a more serious edge as you are tasked with piecing together clues that offer none of the linear assistance that is so common amongst video games. Instead, you are equipped with a notebook with which to note down clues as you notice them, building up your case and ticking off suspects as you accumulate evidence. Of course there will be the odd scrap and gun fight but it’s a much more cerebral affair than Rockstars previous offerings.

Aside from improving the gameplay, L.A. Noire doesn’t skimp on it’s visceral qualities either. The game uses a revolutionary technology called Depth Analysis, which basically means that when in-game story lines are played out, you don’t feel like you’re looking at puppets awkwardly shuffling their jaws up and down. The technology is so good that it warrants a stellar cast that includes Mad Men’s Aaron Staton, possibly making it the first video game that truly deserves to be described as cinematic.

L.A. Noire is released in the UK on 20th May 2011.