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8 Tricks to Unlock All of L.A. Noire's Special Features
September 28th, 2024 - By Steve Chang

If you're like me, diving into the gritty, noir-soaked streets of 1940s Los Angeles in L.A. Noire is a thrilling experience that you want to enjoy to the fullest. The game, a blend of detective work and action, invites players to solve intricate cases meticulously designed with period-specific details. However, there's so much more beneath the surface that enhances this already rich environment. Whether it's finding special features like hidden vehicles, unique outfits, or secret locations, these additions can significantly enrich your gameplay.

In this comprehensive guide, I'll take you through 8 tricks to unlock all of L.A. Noire's special features. Each trick brings its own set of rewards, making your journey through the sun-soaked, crime-ridden streets even more captivating. For example, did you know that certain hidden cars offer performance enhancements that can give you the edge in high-speed chases? Or that unlocking unique detective outfits can give you bonuses to your intuition points, making it easier to solve tough cases?

We'll delve into each trick step-by-step, providing you with essential tips on how to uncover these hidden gems. Not only will you enjoy the thrill of unlocking these special features, but you'll also gain insights into how these extras can strategically benefit you in the game. Imagine wearing a suit that boosts your combat abilities or driving a car that makes those intense police pursuits a breeze.

Whether you're a completionist aiming to unlock every achievement or just someone looking to make your playthrough more engaging, our detailed guide will ensure you don't miss out on any of the special features L.A. Noire has to offer. So, gear up, detectives. It's time to dive deep into the secrets of L.A.'s shadowy underbelly.


Mastering Interrogations to Access Exclusive Dialogues

When it comes to L.A. Noire, mastering interrogations is more than just a fun mini-game – it's a crucial part of accessing exclusive dialogues, diving deeper into the narrative, and unlocking hidden aspects of each case. To start, always pay close attention to the mood and demeanor of the character you’re questioning. Subtle facial expressions and body language can hint at whether they’re hiding something critical or just feeling nervous.

One example is the early case, "The Driver's Seat." Here, interrogating suspect Margaret Black can unlock exclusive dialogue that provides insights into her husband's disappearance. Notice her shifting eyes and fidgety hands when you ask about her relationship with her husband – these are clues that she’s not being entirely truthful. Choosing 'Doubt' instead of 'Truth' can lead to more revealing details.

Another critical aspect is using evidence effectively during interrogations. Each piece of evidence collected can either confirm or contradict a suspect's statements. For instance, in the "Golden Butterfly" case, showing the bracelet found in the husband's car while questioning him about his alibi can unravel his lie, opening up new avenues of dialogue and investigation. Always review your notebook before diving into an interrogation to match the right pieces of evidence with your questions.

Don’t rush your interrogations. Taking a moment to consider each response can pay off. The game offers a triad of responses: 'Truth,' 'Doubt,' and 'Lie.' Understanding when to use each is essential. If a character looks overly calm and their story aligns perfectly with the evidence, 'Truth' might be appropriate. On the other hand, if there are discrepancies, 'Doubt' or 'Lie' could reveal new information.

In "A Fallen Idol," the interrogation of June Ballard reveals much when handled correctly. By accusing her of lying about her history using evidence from the prop store, players can unlock a more in-depth dialogue that steers the investigation in the right direction. These exclusive story bits often lead to new locations, witnesses, or even entire case breakthroughs.

Lastly, while it might be tempting to push through dialogues for the thrill of action, patience is rewarded in interrogations. Careful analysis and strategic questioning allow for a more complete understanding of the game’s rich narrative tapestry. Remember, every piece of exclusive dialogue you unlock not only helps in solving the case but enhances the overall gaming experience — making L.A. Noire the immersive, gripping game it’s meant to be.

Summary:

  • Mastering interrogations in L.A. Noire is key to accessing exclusive dialogues, deeper narratives, and unlocking hidden case details by observing character mood, facial expressions, and body language.
  • Utilize collected evidence effectively during interrogations to confirm or contradict suspect statements and always review your notebook beforehand to match evidence with questions.
  • Patience and careful questioning in interrogations reveal deeper story elements, new locations, and witnesses, enhancing the overall gaming experience and aiding in case breakthroughs.

How to Locate All Hidden Landmarks for Extra Content

One of the most rewarding aspects of L.A. Noire is uncovering all the hidden landmarks spread throughout the game's intricate rendition of 1940s Los Angeles. These landmarks not only offer a sense of accomplishment but also unlock extra content that enhances your gameplay experience. Here's how to locate them all, ensuring you don't miss a single one.

Start by examining your in-game map. Rockstar Games has done an exceptional job in embedding the landmarks seamlessly within the city's layout, making exploration genuinely thrilling. It's crucial to pay attention to major architectural structures and historical locations. As you unlock new areas on your map, they'll get marked automatically, saving you some time.

While driving through the city, listen to the conversations between your character, Cole Phelps, and his partners. They often drop hints about nearby significant buildings or landmarks. For instance, while driving near the Los Angeles Public Library, one of your partners might remark on its imposing structure, leading you to check it out.

Using the police radio can also guide you toward landmarks. Occasionally, dispatch will describe events or incidents near famous locations. Leveraging this can be an effective way to pinpoint areas worth investigating for hidden content.

It's immensely beneficial to take side missions or 'Street Crimes' that take you off the main story path. These side quests often route you through lesser-traveled areas of the city, where you'll encounter crucial landmarks. For example, completing the 'Bank Job' side mission could lead you past the historic Los Angeles County Hall of Records.

If you're still finding it challenging to locate all landmarks, consider using your intuition points. Occasionally, allocating intuition during moments of doubt will highlight areas of interest on your map, making the discovery process smoother.

Lastly, joining L.A. Noire gaming communities or forums can offer insider tips from fellow gamers. Players frequently share landmarks' exact coordinates, making your search a lot easier. For example, a post on a popular forum might reveal that the Griffith Observatory is best viewed during the daytime for the game's lighting effects to highlight it perfectly.

By staying vigilant and exploring each nook and cranny, you can unlock all of L.A. Noire’s hidden landmarks, thereby enriching your overall gameplay with extra content that's both immersive and rewarding.

Summary:

  • Examine your in-game map for major architectural structures and historical locations; newly unlocked areas get marked automatically.
  • Listen to character conversations and police radio dispatches for hints about nearby significant buildings or events.
  • Take side missions and use intuition points to highlight areas of interest on your map; join gaming communities for insider tips.

Unlocking Secret Outfits and Weapons by Completing Challenges

Unlocking secret outfits and weapons in L.A. Noire requires you to complete a series of challenges that some players might overlook. These challenges aren't just thrilling; they also add layers of depth to your gameplay, making each detective mission all the more rewarding.

First off, let's talk about the Golden Boy outfit. This dapper suit isn't available right off the bat; you need to solve specific cases and complete their unique requirements. For instance, finish the case titled "The Driver's Seat" and make sure you get a perfect five-star rating. Doing so not only advances your career but also rewards you with this stylish look.

Next, consider the Chicago Piano, a powerful shotgun that can make a significant difference in heated gunfights. To unlock this weapon, you will have to find and examine all 20 of the hidden film reels scattered throughout the city. Believe me, scouring the vast map for these reels isn't just an exercise in patience—it also makes you more familiar with Los Angeles' detailed landscape, adding to your immersive experience.

Another standout is the Button Man outfit, which you gain by reaching the rank of Detective 30. While that might sound intimidating, there are plenty of ways to rack up experience points quickly. Undertake multiple Street Crimes and focus on collecting clues more efficiently during main missions. Often, it’s the little details like thoroughly examining every piece of evidence that add up to big XP boosts.

In the same vein, the Broderick suit offers enhanced damage resistance, ideal for those high-stakes shootouts. This outfit becomes available once you successfully complete the case "The Fallen Idol" with all the clues discovered and questions correctly answered. It’s a challenge, but paying attention to every question clue can make all the difference in unlocking this gem.

Let's not overlook the Badge Pursuit Challenge, which rewards you with the powerful “Button Man suit” upon finding and collecting all 20 police badges hidden around the city. Each badge you collect contributes to unlocking not just the outfit but also additional XP, helping you climb the ranks faster.

Finally, if variety is your thing, remember to complete DLC cases like "Nicholson Electroplating" or "A Slip of the Tongue." Each of these cases often includes unique rewards like special outfits or rare weapons that you can't find otherwise. They also enrich the core storyline, making it a double win for committed players.

By actively engaging in these challenges, not only do you enhance your wardrobe and arsenal, but you also deepen your experience, uncovering the many layers of mystery that make L.A. Noire so captivating.

Summary:

  • Complete specific case requirements to unlock stylish outfits like the Golden Boy and Broderick suits, enhancing your gameplay experience.
  • Find hidden items, such as the 20 film reels for the Chicago Piano shotgun or 20 police badges for the Button Man suit, to strengthen your arsenal.
  • Engage in DLC cases and focus on gathering clues and solving street crimes to gain XP and unlock rare rewards, enriching the overall storyline.

Exploring Collectibles to Reveal Hidden Storylines

In L.A. Noire, uncovering hidden storylines and deeper narrative layers often means diving into the world of collectibles. Scattered throughout the city, these items aren’t just window dressing—they’re a gateway to richer storytelling and immersive gameplay. You'll find gold film reels, vintage newspapers, and even hidden vehicles that offer a glimpse into the characters' backstories and the overarching narrative.

Gold film reels are one of the most sought-after collectibles. As a dedicated detective, I always keep my eyes peeled for them. There are 50 of these scattered throughout Los Angeles, each providing a small piece of the puzzle. For example, finding a reel might lead us to an old theater, triggering a flashback that reveals a character's hidden motivations or dark past. Make sure to scour movie studios, back alleys, and rooftops to collect them all.

Another crucial collectible is the vintage newspapers. These aren't your everyday reads; each newspaper offers key information tied to the main storyline. Each one is a breadcrumb, leading to the bigger picture of corruption and intrigue. When I first picked up a newspaper in the Black Dahlia part of the game, the story it unfolded helped me better understand the twisted mind of the antagonist. Look out for them in crime scenes, police stations, and other significant locations where the story unfolds.

Then there are the hidden vehicles, which are more than just fancy rides. These unique cars are often parked in obscure locations and, when found, provide valuable narrative insights and boost your detective persona. For instance, finding the hidden Phantom Corsair in a secluded garage not only enriched my character's vehicle collection but also led to a side mission that offered deeper context about a key suspect.

Don't overlook the landmarks either. While not traditional collectibles, these iconic locations offer chapters of their own. Visiting famous sites like the Wilshire Police Station or the Hall of Records can reveal hidden stories and clues central to your investigation. Each of these landmarks also adds to the authenticity of your experience, making you feel like you're really in post-war Los Angeles unraveling intricate cases.

To effectively gather these collectibles, I recommend using intuition points and paying close attention to your surroundings. Sometimes, following a hunch can lead you to a hidden alley or an abandoned building where these items are tucked away. Additionally, interact with as many characters as possible—they often drop hints about where to find these valuable collectibles.

So, lace-up those detective shoes, grab your notepad, and start exploring. Each collectible in L.A. Noire isn't just a tick on a list; it's a doorway into the game's hidden storylines and the city’s dark underbelly. Happy sleuthing!

Summary:

  • Gold film reels, vintage newspapers, and hidden vehicles in L.A. Noire reveal deeper storylines and character backstories, enhancing the immersive gameplay.
  • Gold film reels are scattered throughout Los Angeles and often reveal flashbacks; vintage newspapers provide key information tied to the main storyline, while hidden vehicles offer narrative insights and side missions.
  • Landmarks such as the Wilshire Police Station or the Hall of Records also contribute to the narrative, offering clues and adding authenticity to the player's investigation experience.

Utilizing Partner Mechanics to Gain New Insights

One of the often-underestimated tricks in L.A. Noire is utilizing partner mechanics to gain new insights. Each partner in the game has unique perspectives and skills, and leveraging these can tremendously impact your case progress. Your partner isn’t just there for banter; they’re a crucial asset in your investigative toolkit.

For instance, when you’re stuck on a particularly tough interrogation, asking your partner for advice can provide valuable hints about which line of questioning to pursue. During the Homicide Desk cases, Rusty Galloway can offer insights into crime scene details that might otherwise go unnoticed. It’s like having an extra layer of detective skills at your fingertips.

Moreover, partners often have anecdotal knowledge of suspects or locations that you, as the player, might not immediately recognize. When working with Stefan Bekowsky, you might discover that he has prior knowledge of a suspect’s criminal history, which can be instrumental in cracking the case. By actively engaging in dialogue with your partner, you can uncover these hidden nuggets of information that can be pivotally useful.

Don’t forget to use your partner during car chases and shootouts as well. Assigning them to take the wheel or cover you during a firefight can free you up to focus on other critical actions, further enhancing your overall strategy. Say you’re in pursuit of a fleeing suspect; letting your partner handle the driving allows you to concentrate on shooting out the suspect’s tires, maximizing your chance of a quick capture.

To make the most of partner mechanics, try to observe their behavior and note when they seem to react strongly to certain clues or evidence. Often, their reactions can prompt you to take a closer look at something you might have dismissed too quickly. For example, if your partner reacts nervously or points something out explicitly, it’s a cue that you should give that particular clue or line of questioning another look.

Remember, the key to mastering partner mechanics in L.A. Noire is maintaining an active dialogue and leveraging your partners’ specific strengths. This not only makes your investigations more efficient but also enriches your overall gameplay experience. By strategically using your partners, you can unlock deeper levels of insight and make your time solving puzzles even more rewarding.

Summary:

  • Partners in L.A. Noire offer unique skills and perspectives, serving as crucial assets in investigations by providing valuable hints and uncovering hidden information.
  • During tough interrogations and homicide cases, partners like Rusty Galloway can reveal overlooked crime scene details, while others like Stefan Bekowsky may have critical anecdotal knowledge of suspects.
  • Use partners during car chases and shootouts to focus on critical actions like shooting while they handle driving or covering, and pay attention to their reactions to clues for additional insights.

Deciphering Clues for Unveiling Special Cases

One of the core thrills of playing L.A. Noire lies in deciphering clues to unveil those elusive special cases that can take your experience to the next level. By understanding how to thoroughly investigate and piece together evidence, you can unlock hidden gems within the game. Let’s walk through some effective strategies.

First, always start by meticulously examining your surroundings. Don’t rush through the crime scenes. Every detail matters, no matter how insignificant it might seem at first. For instance, I once found a crucial note tucked in a seemingly random car’s glove compartment, which led me to a key suspect. This kind of evidence can often be overlooked if you're not thorough.

Make use of your notebook efficiently. In L.A. Noire, your notebook is more than just a journal; it’s your guide. As you collect evidence and talk to witnesses, update your notes diligently. This helps in connecting dots later on when new information surfaces. A well-maintained notebook can reveal patterns and connections you might miss otherwise.

Engage in every dialogue option available. Conversations in L.A. Noire aren't just filler; they’re full of potentially pivotal information. When speaking with witnesses or suspects, pay close attention to their reactions and responses. For example, if someone hesitates or becomes defensive, it might indicate they're hiding something. Use your intuition and the evidence at hand to press them further.

Furthermore, utilize the game's intuition points wisely. These points can be a true lifeline when you’re stuck. For instance, if you’re unsure which clue to follow next, spending an intuition point can highlight key evidence or eliminate incorrect responses during an interrogation. Proper use of intuition points often leads directly to breakthroughs in complex cases.

Lastly, never underestimate the power of the coroner's report. Forensic evidence can often point you in the right direction. In one case, the coroner’s details about the time of death contradicted a suspect’s alibi, leading to a confession after some intense questioning. Combining scientific details with detective work is a surefire way to crack tough cases.

By carefully piecing together every clue, keeping an organized record in your notebook, thoroughly engaging in dialogues, wisely using intuition points, and leveraging forensic reports, you can uncover all of L.A. Noire's special cases with finesse. Happy sleuthing!

Summary:

  • Meticulously examine surroundings for overlooked clues; even minor details can lead to major breakthroughs.
  • Keep an organized notebook to reveal patterns and connections, and engage thoroughly in dialogues to gather pivotal information.
  • Wisely use intuition points and leverage forensic reports to crack tough cases and uncover special cases in L.A. Noire.

Investigating Every Crime Scene to Unlock Bonus Missions

One of the most gratifying ways to uncover all the hidden gems in L.A. Noire is by investigating every crime scene meticulously. This diligence not only immerses you deeper into the noir atmosphere but can also unveil special bonus missions that are easily missed.

From the moment you arrive at a crime scene, your detective instincts should kick in. Start by surveying the area thoroughly, as you never know what might be hidden in plain sight. Pay attention to your controller's vibrations, which indicate a nearby clue. For instance, at the scene of a brutal murder, you might discover a suspicious footprint in the mud leading away from the body. Following this lead might propel you into an unexpected side quest, potentially opening up a path to a bonus mission.

Don't overlook the small details. Items like a half-smoked cigarette or a torn piece of fabric can be pivotal. During one investigation, I found a unique matchbook at the scene of a robbery, which led me to a speakeasy. This not only advanced the main plot but also unlocked a covert mission where I had to infiltrate the underground club. These layers add immense value and depth to your experience.

Interviewing witnesses and suspects is equally crucial. Utilize your keen observation skills during these interactions. Spotting a nervous tic or an evasive answer can prompt a closer look at certain aspects of the crime scene. For example, a suspect's reluctance to talk about a specific item, like a bloody knife found hidden under some debris, can be the key to unlocking a side narrative. By thoroughly questioning everyone involved and cross-referencing their statements with your findings, you can piece together clues that might lead to special bonus content.

Finally, always revisit the crime scene once you've gathered new evidence or developed new leads. What seemed insignificant at first might hold new meaning after additional information comes to light. During one case, I overlooked a banal advertisement flyer. Later, connecting it to new evidence led to an intricate series of events culminating in a high-profile bonus mission.

In essence, make it a habit to leave no stone unturned. Detailed and persistent crime scene investigation can be the ticket to unlocking some of L.A. Noire's hidden missions, providing a richer, more fulfilling gameplay experience.

Summary:

  • Investigate every crime scene meticulously to uncover hidden bonus missions and dive deeper into the noir atmosphere.
  • Survey the area thoroughly, paying attention to controller vibrations and small details like a half-smoked cigarette or matchbook, which can lead to bonus missions.
  • Interview witnesses and suspects carefully, using keen observation to spot clues and unlock special bonus content through thorough questioning and cross-referencing.

Maximizing Your Detective Rank to Access Elite Perks

To truly immerse yourself in the world of L.A. Noire and unlock its exclusive features, you need to focus on maximizing your detective rank. This not only enhances your gameplay but also grants you access to elite perks that can significantly alter your experience.

First and foremost, always aim for five-star case ratings. Each case in L.A. Noire is an opportunity to climb the ranks, but achieving top ratings demands meticulous attention to detail. Thoroughly investigate all crime scenes, gather every clue, and ensure impeccable interrogation techniques. For example, when questioning suspects, observe their body language and facial expressions to distinguish between truth and deception.

Another critical aspect is collecting hidden vehicles and newspapers. Hidden vehicles not only boost your rank but also give you access to some of the rarest and fastest cars in the game. Scouring the city for collectible newspapers brings deeper narrative context and can sometimes unveil critical case details. Utilize in-game hints and your map to locate these items efficiently.

Engage actively in street crimes and side missions. While the main storyline cases are essential, side missions provide extra opportunities for rank advancement. They are usually shorter and less complex but offer substantial XP rewards. The more XP you accumulate, the faster you ascend the detective ranks.

Your interrogation skills play a pivotal role too. Choosing the right dialogue options can make or break a case. Always analyze evidence before making decisions. For example, if a suspect's statement conflicts with a piece of evidence you've gathered, challenge them to reveal inconsistencies. This approach often leads to breakthroughs that can seal a five-star rating.

Don't underestimate the power of using intuition points. These points can be lifesavers when you're stuck. They can help you identify vital clues or remove incorrect questions during interrogations. Use them strategically to maintain your case momentum and ensure higher ratings.

Finally, practice makes perfect. Replaying cases to get a better score helps you understand where you might have missed crucial clues or made faulty decisions. Every replay can be a learning experience that brings you closer to mastering the game and reaching an elite detective rank.

By focusing on these strategies, you'll unlock L.A. Noire's special features and perks, ensuring that your detective career is as illustrious and immersive as it can be. Happy sleuthing!

Summary:

  • Maximize detective rank by aiming for five-star case ratings, which requires meticulous attention to detail in investigating crime scenes and interrogating suspects accurately.
  • Collect hidden vehicles and newspapers to boost rank and uncover rare cars and deeper narrative context, using in-game hints and maps for efficient collection.
  • Engage in street crimes, side missions, and use intuition points strategically to gain XP, improve interrogation skills, and replay cases for better scores and elite perks.

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