The much-anticipated game, Mafia: The Old Country, sets the stage for an intriguing narrative that transports players back to the early 1900s in Sicily.
In an exclusive hands-on preview, Hangar 13’s president, Nick Baynes, emphasized that players will experience a story-driven gameplay that strives for closure by the end of the experience.
This installment deliberately steps away from the open-world approach seen in Mafia 3, which, while well-received, felt out of place for many in the context of the franchise.
The original two games were recognized for their beautifully crafted, linear narratives that served as backdrops for the core missions. Baynes noted that the positive response to the Mafia: Definitive Edition remake has provided valuable insights and inspiration for this new entry.
During a three-hour session, I explored Chapters 3, 4, and 5, experiencing a return to the franchise’s roots. This story-first approach shifts away from open-world elements, focusing instead on narrative-driven action-adventure gameplay.
The primary weapon is not a gun, but rather a knife, allowing players to engage in stealth mechanics, enhancing the excitement surrounding the gameplay. Notably, the game will have an accessible price of $50 at launch.
Rediscovering Enzo Favara’s Journey
At the helm of the narrative is Enzo Favara, a late-teen navigating his newfound freedom after escaping harsh labor in sulfur mines.
As he aligns himself with Don Torrisi, Enzo’s transformation from innocence to a monitored member of the crime family unfolds.
In Chapter 3, his initial foray into this life is marked by collections alongside Luca, the Don’s loyal enforcer, and Cesare, embodying contrasting philosophies—one advocating patience and the other resorting to violence.
In a memorable encounter with Marco, an olive farmer who is late on payments, Enzo is given an unloaded gun to intimidate him, striking a chord for the protagonist’s moral dilemmas.
This scene encapsulates the game’s nuanced portrayal of Enzo’s gradual descent into the complexities of the Mafia world, steering clear of an immediate descent into violence.
The storyline escalates as Enzo and Luca confront a striking workforce on Mr. Bangalino’s farm, revealing the struggles of labor politics that permeated the era.
Riding through Sicily’s picturesque landscape highlights not only the stunning visuals afforded by Unreal Engine 5 but also dives deeper into the unfolding drama.
Knife Combat Takes Center Stage
The importance of knife combat is a recurrent theme. Players can unlock various knives, each with distinct properties that cater to individual combat styles.
The game introduces a sophisticated combat system encompassing thrusts, slashes, parries, and dodges, reminiscent of recent action games. The engagements vary from stealthy infiltrations to all-out brawls, maintaining a dynamic pace throughout.
As the narrative progresses, Enzo is tasked with challenging Messina in a climactic knife fight, showcasing the game’s thrilling combat depth. Each encounter necessitates sharp reflexes and an understanding of the game’s mechanics to emerge victorious.
Building Anticipation for the Full Release
After my session, I departed with a sense of excitement about Mafia: The Old Country. While the total chapter count remains a mystery, it promises a lengthier experience than past entries, ensuring an engaging journey beyond a mere six-hour playthrough.
For those who balance gaming with family life, a manageable campaign duration is ideal, reinforcing that quality storytelling can be enjoyable even within a shorter timeframe.
The foundational elements—a compelling narrative coupled with solid gameplay mechanics—paint a promising picture for this upcoming title, inviting players back to the captivating world of Mafia.
It’s heartening to see the series return to its narrative-driven roots, poised to captivate both newcomers and long-time fans alike.