Chapter XV: Kill or Be Killed

Master Max Payne 3's Chapter XV: Kill or Be Killed through intense close-quarters combat and strategic cover usage during an airport assault.

Welcome to the penultimate chapter, Max. The stakes are higher than ever, and the body count is about to skyrocket. This chapter is a relentless gauntlet of close-quarters combat and strategic cover usage. Keep your wits about you, conserve your Painkillers, and make every bullet count.

The Airport Assault

The chapter begins with Max infiltrating the airport. You'll be immediately thrust into a firefight upon exiting the vehicle. Prioritize headshots and use Bullet Time effectively to thin out the initial wave of enemies.

• Initial Engagement: As you exit the van, immediately take cover behind the concrete barrier to your left. Several armed thugs will emerge from the terminal entrance directly ahead. Use your PT92 or Micro 9mm for quick, precise headshots.
• Moving Through the Terminal: Once the initial group is down, advance cautiously into the terminal. More enemies will appear from behind the check-in counters. Look for explosive barrels or fire extinguishers to create environmental kills.
• Collectibles: Keep an eye out for a Golden Gun Part (PT92) located behind the large information desk to the right of the main entrance. There's also a Painkiller bottle on a luggage cart near the security checkpoint.

The Escalator Gauntlet

After clearing the main terminal, you'll reach a set of escalators. This is a particularly dangerous section due to the elevated enemy positions.

• Ascending Strategy: Do NOT rush up the escalators. Enemies will be positioned at the top, ready to ambush you. Instead, use the escalators themselves as moving cover. Pop out, fire a few shots, and duck back down.
• Sniper Threat: A sniper will be positioned on the upper level, overlooking the escalators. Prioritize taking him out with a well-aimed shot from your M4 Carbine or AK-47.
• Flanking Maneuver: Once the sniper is down, consider using the side stairs to flank the remaining enemies on the upper level. This can give you a significant tactical advantage.
• Ammunition Resupply: Before proceeding, check the small convenience store at the top of the escalators for 5.56mm Ammo and potentially another Painkiller.

The Hangar Showdown

The climax of this chapter takes place in a massive aircraft hangar. Expect heavy resistance, including armored enemies and multiple assault rifle wielders.

• Entering the Hangar: As you enter, immediately take cover behind the large crates or aircraft components. Enemies will be spread out across the hangar floor and on elevated platforms.
• Armored Foes: Several enemies will be wearing body armor. Aim for their unarmored heads or use sustained fire to break their armor. The Super Sport Shotgun can be highly effective at close range against these targets.
• Elevated Threats: Watch out for enemies on the catwalks and atop the parked planes. Use Bullet Time to pick them off before they can get a bead on you.
• Explosive Opportunities: The hangar is littered with explosive barrels and fuel tanks. Use these to your advantage, especially when groups of enemies are clustered together.
• Final Stand: The last wave of enemies will often include a heavily armed individual with a LMG. Use cover and Bullet Time to circle around them and hit their exposed back.
• Collectibles: A Golden Gun Part (LMG) can be found near the nose of the large cargo plane in the center of the hangar. Also, check the small office on the far side of the hangar for a Painkiller and some 7.62mm Ammo.

Once the hangar is clear, a cutscene will trigger, leading you into the final confrontation. Prepare yourself, Max, the end is near.