Payday 3: A Quantum Leap Forward from Payday 2!

Highlights

Payday 3

improves on its predecessor with smoother movement and greater player mobility, including the ability to vault, mantle, and slide.

The gunplay in

Payday 3

feels better and more responsive, with a revised selection of weapons that have a satisfying kick and the addition of hitmarkers.

The stealth mechanics in

Payday 3

The game has undergone significant updates, enabling players to utilize gadgets, manipulate civilians and guards, and stay hidden while carrying loot bags, resulting in more skillful heists. Both civilian and enemy AI has been enhanced, showcasing more realistic and reactive behaviors. With the release of Payday 3, it is natural to draw comparisons to Payday 2 and evaluate whether the game represents an evolution of one of the most renowned heist games. Payday 3 has successfully implemented numerous improvements in comparison to its predecessor, embodying the progress, development, and attention to detail of modern gaming. Veterans of Payday 2 will undoubtedly notice and appreciate the difference.

Thanks to the refined systems and extensive development of Payday 2 over the years, Payday 3 brings numerous improvements over its predecessors, catering to both solo players and others. The visuals have undergone significant enhancements, displaying smoother and more stylized graphics. Moreover, the gameplay and mechanics have reached their pinnacle, owing to the transition from the Diesel game engine to Unreal Engine 4.

5 Player Mobility

Payday 3 offers a significant improvement in movement mechanics, providing players with enhanced mobility and a more fluid experience. Unlike its predecessor, Payday 2, which imposed several movement restrictions, players in Payday 3 enjoy the freedom to sprint, walk, and perform various other actions. In contrast to the previous game's limitations, players can now navigate through challenging areas with ease, avoiding potential pitfalls and obstacles.

With Payday 3,

4 Better Gunplay

The gunplay in Payday 3 is seamlessly integrated with the player's movement, resulting in a heightened sense of action. The mechanics and weapon balancing have been thoroughly reworked to provide an even more immersive experience. While the selection of firearms may be more limited compared to Payday 2, each gun is tailored to the individual player and delivers the necessary impact to take on waves of law enforcement and special enemies.

Guns in Payday 3 deliver a heightened sense of satisfaction and responsiveness. The addition of hitmarkers enhances the overall experience, and the inclusion of armored enemies adds an extra layer of challenge. The act of firing weapons in Payday 3 is incredibly satisfying, particularly when wielding a powerful shotgun or a rapid-firing SMG. The distinct feel of the guns sets Payday 3 apart, preventing players from using shotguns as long-range sniper rifles as they could in Payday 2.

3 Smoother Stealth

In Payday 3, the stealth mechanics have undergone significant improvements, resulting in a much more satisfying experience for players. Engaging in stealth operations feels incredibly rewarding, as players seamlessly transition from Casing Mode to masked heists, embracing the power of silence. Utilizing their arsenal of gadgets, players can discreetly position miniature cameras on guards and walls, effortlessly monitoring potential targets. Additionally, they have the freedom to navigate through ventilation systems and skillfully manipulate doors to their advantage.

The standout feature of Payday 3's enhanced stealth mechanics lies in the ability for players to physically transport and maneuver civilians and guards. This innovative approach eliminates the need for traditional body bags and allows players to discreetly relocate their targets to secure locations, shielding them from unwanted attention.

2 Casing Mode Mechanics

The new mechanics introduced in Payday 3 greatly enhance the stealth experience, with Casing Mode playing a crucial role. Unlike Payday 2, where players were confined to mere observation and tagging of guards and cameras, Casing Mode in Payday 3 offers much more dynamic possibilities. Gone are the days of being limited to a passive onlooker until things escalate and heavy firepower becomes necessary. Payday 3 now empowers players to actively participate in the planning and execution of heists, expanding the stealth gameplay to unprecedented levels.

1 Civilian And Enemy AI

In Casing Mode, players have the ability to perform various actions such as opening doors, lockpicking, utilizing gadgets, and even collecting loot bags. This allows players to remain unnoticed, even while carrying a bag of stolen cash on their back, adding a touch of professionalism and nonchalance to their heists. However, it's important to note that players can still attract attention while in Casing Mode if they engage in illegal or suspicious activities, so smooth sailing is not guaranteed for players.

In Payday 3, the AI has significantly improved responsiveness. Both the civilian characters and enemies now demonstrate a higher level of intelligence. The civilians are genuinely fearful of the Payday crew; they no longer stand still, contemplating their actions. Instead, they react appropriately, raising their hands in surrender when confronted with a gun or flinching and dropping to their knees to allow players to secure them without fears of interference or escape.

The enemy AI in Payday 3 surpasses that of civilian AI. It introduces a wide range of police and specialized enemies who dynamically respond to the player's actions. These enemies are strategic, taking cover, attempting to flank, and going the extra mile to eliminate the player. The revamped special enemy types add an increased level of challenge in combat, with their focus on hostages, loot bags, and maintaining control of the situation to impede the player's success. Payday 3 is currently available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.