Max Payne 3: Researching São Paulo's Super Rich

By Michael Shelton / February 22, 2012

Fancy VIP nightclubs, multi-million dollar condos, and luxurious sports cars all circle within the lifestyle of the richest people. São Paulo is unanimous with power and prestige throughout Brazil, and with over 12% of Brazil's GDP originating from within, it's no wonder that Forbes named São Paulo one of the top global cities for investing. With all of the rich flaunting their wealth, the poor are being forgotten. A growing crime rate should come as no surprise, and this is where Max Payne will find his conflicts. In a city where crime is abundant, certain areas of the city become unsafe to walk at night. Many drivers refuse to pause for more than a quick stop at red light's, as this is an opportunity criminals will take in a heartbeat. Traffic becomes an even higher risk for the wealthy. Traffic which can stretch for over 100 miles, five-mile drive's can take several hours and many have found the investment in bulletproof windows to prove their worth.

Many kidnapper's and thieves take to motorcycles for their flexibility, able to weave through traffic they can commit a crime and escape with a significant less threat of being captured. Citizens are very aware of the dangers presented and with this automobile's have become a dangerous inconvenience. The limited capabilities of traveling by car have forced many to seek another form of travel, and this is why São Paulo has more helicopter's than any other city. Easing the struggle of a commute by car, and the dangers that accompany it. Rooftops now brandish helipads for faster travel, effectively limiting the chances of criminals to target them. With the super rich flaunting their treasures to those starving for more, Max is quickly going to find himself caught in the middle. Plunging himself into the underbelly of São Paulo, he will confront the desperation head-on just as Max always does. In May, the lavish life of Brazil's wealthiest will be brought to reality. The realization that life cannot be guaranteed by riches, and desperation lives in the chamber of a gun. For the full research article from the Rockstar team check out their blog post here.