Mafia: The Old Country – A Razor-Sharp Return to Sicily
after a decade of silence, the Mafia series roars back with “Mafia: The Old Country.” The initial gameplay trailer reveals a departure from classic mafia tropes. Hangar 13 surprises with a cinematic action production, evoking a blend of “the Godfather” and “Uncharted,” seasoned with Sicilian grit.
A Sicilian Vendetta: Knife Between the Teeth
The game transports players to early 20th-century Sicily, introducing Enzo, the protagonist of this prequel. Unlike previous installments set in sprawling American cities,Enzo navigates dusty streets,olive groves,and aged churches. Eschewing an open-world format, “Mafia: The Old Country” emphasizes tightly designed missions, cinematic staging, and visceral melee combat. This approach,while risky,appears promising in the trailer.
Did You Know?
The early 20th century in Sicily was a period of significant social and political upheaval,marked by the rise of organized crime and deep-rooted traditions of honor and revenge. This historical backdrop provides a rich and authentic setting for “Mafia: The Old Country.”
The gameplay trailer showcases horseback shootings and daring leaps from moving carriages. The combat system appears more dynamic than previous Mafia games. A key element is the knife.
Associate Game Director Joshua Zammit emphasized that the knife [is] an integral part of the gameplay
, serving not only as a tool for silent takedowns but also as a symbol of Sicilian identity. Fights are designed to feel like life-or-death struggles, with every strike appearing brutal and raw.
Less World, more mafia: A Focused Experience
Mafia has traditionally offered a more mature alternative to Grand Theft Auto, prioritizing narrative over open-world chaos. While Rockstar Games excels with expansive worlds and cynical humor, Mafia focuses on compelling storytelling. “Mafia: The Old Country” continues this tradition, embracing a more stylistic and focused approach.
Pro Tip
Pay close attention to the surroundings during combat. Using the terrain to your advantage, such as creating choke points or utilizing cover, can significantly improve your chances of survival in the intense melee encounters.
The camera work is intimate, the action is fast-paced and cinematic, drawing comparisons to Naughty Dog’s style. While those expecting an open-world experience akin to “Mafia III” or “GTA 6” may be disappointed, “Mafia: The Old Country” aims to deliver an interactive mafia film, linear, focused, and uncompromisingly staged. This approach could be a refreshing change for the series, emphasizing gripping dialogues, cinematic battles, and a dense atmosphere over side missions and collectibles.
Back to the Roots: A New Sicilian Setting
Hangar 13 takes a bold step by setting the game in rural Sicily rather than an american city. The architecture, landscape, and lighting offer a fresh perspective for a Mafia game. instead of jazz and street lamps, players encounter mandolins and olive trees, marking a stylistic and chronological departure.
Reader Question
How will the absence of an open world affect the replayability of “Mafia: The Old Country”? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Whether “Mafia: The Old Country” lives up to its trailer’s promise remains to be seen. Though, it represents a bold fresh start with a clear vision, rather than a tired rehash of past successes. If the knife truly becomes central to the gameplay, this game could deliver a sharp and compelling crime experience.
