The Mafia series has long been acclaimed for its captivating storytelling and richly detailed worlds, and Mafia: The Old Country continues that legacy with finesse. Taking the franchise back to its roots, this entry transports players to early 1900s Sicily, delivering a gripping tale of crime, family, and ambition. With refined gameplay and an intricately crafted setting, the game breathes new life into the series, even with a few imperfections.
A Tale of Revenge, Redemption, and Family
In The Old Country, you step into the shoes of Enzo Favara, a young Sicilian whose harsh beginnings shape his journey. Forced to work in a sulfur mine at just five years old to settle his family’s debts, Enzo eventually buys his freedom, setting the stage for his rise within the powerful Torrisi crime family.
The narrative unfolds at a deliberate pace, giving ample time to develop the characters and immerse players in the world before escalating into high-stakes drama. While the slow build may test the patience of some, the emotional payoff and layered storytelling make it a rewarding experience in the end.
Outstanding voice performances amplify the story’s impact, making every interaction feel meaningful. The motivations and relationships of the characters are carefully explored, adding emotional weight and a cinematic touch to the overall experience.
A Stunning Portrait of Sicily
Breaking away from the urban environments of its predecessors, Mafia: The Old Country moves the action to the breathtaking landscapes of 1900s Sicily. From picturesque mountain vistas to lively town squares, the world is lovingly crafted with attention to detail. Traversing this setting on horseback or at pace in a vintage automobile is a delight, thanks to improved driving mechanics that make exploration genuinely enjoyable.
The game encourages players to explore at their own pace, rewarding those who choose to listen in on conversations during travel sequences. These moments not only enrich the story but also deepen your connection to the characters and their world. Skipping these sections risks missing out on some of the game’s most endearing touches, so my advice would be to embrace every moment and let the story unfold.
Refined Gameplay with Hints of Repetition
The campaign, which spans roughly 14 hours, offers a variety of missions ranging from covert infiltrations to intense combat scenarios. While the diverse environments and objectives help keep things engaging, mission structures can occasionally feel repetitive, often boiling down to sneaking in and neutralizing a target.
Enzo’s arsenal includes an impressive toolkit: stealth weapons like knives for silent takedowns, lockpicking tools, and distractions such as coins. Firearms, grenades, and the “instinct” ability—which highlights enemy positions—further expand your tactical options. Though similar mechanics exist in other games, Mafia: The Old Country implements them effectively.
Combat is fluid, with tight gunplay and a reliable cover system. One standout addition is knife duels: tense, one-on-one encounters that require precise timing to parry, dodge, and strike. These battles, while rare, are thrilling highlights that elevate key narrative moments.
Not all gameplay elements hit the mark, however. The AI can be inconsistent, enemies sometimes fail to notice bodies in plain sight but then go and display impressive tactics during firefights. While these quirks occasionally break immersion, they don’t significantly detract from the overall experience.
Atmosphere Elevated by Music
One of the game’s standout features is its remarkable soundtrack. The music perfectly captures the spirit of early 20th-century Italy, enhancing the sense of immersion as you traverse Sicily’s scenic landscapes. During key moments, the score seamlessly builds tension or underscores emotional beats, enhancing the game’s cinematic quality. This is a soundtrack worth turning up the volume for. it adds a layer of depth that amplifies every scene.
A Triumph for the Franchise
Mafia: The Old Country stands as one of the strongest entries in the series. Its gripping story, well-drawn characters, and beautifully realized setting combine to deliver a memorable and cinematic experience. While the occasional misstep in AI behavior or mission design holds it back slightly, the game’s strengths far outshine its flaws.
I experienced the game on the PlayStation 5, playing about 75% of it via the PlayStation Portal. The handheld gaming experience was smooth and immersive, running flawlessly across the network.
With its masterful storytelling and atmospheric world, Mafia: The Old Country offers an enthralling journey into a historic criminal underworld. It’s a must-play for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. Currently available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, the game earns an impressive 8 out of 10
