A Return to Organized Crime’s Golden Age
The Mafia series is set to make its triumphant return with Mafia: The Old Country, launching in Summer 2025. Hangar 13, the developers behind the franchise’s beloved remakes and sequels, promises this newest entry will take players back to the roots of organized crime in a sprawling, historically rich setting.
A Return to Italy’s Underworld
Unlike its predecessors, which focused on American crime families, Mafia: The Old Country takes the action to early 20th-century Italy. Players will experience the rise of a fledgling Mafia family during a time of political turmoil, economic hardship, and burgeoning criminal empires. The game is set to feature:
- Authentic Italian Landscapes: From cobblestone streets and rustic villages to bustling cities like Palermo and Naples, the game immerses players in a living, breathing depiction of Italy.
- A Family Legacy: Players take on the role of a young Sicilian, carving out a path from humble beginnings to the top of the underworld hierarchy.
- Historical Context: The game intertwines the Mafia’s rise with real-world events, including the aftermath of World War I and the growing influence of Mussolini’s regime.
Gameplay Features
The Old Country aims to refine and expand upon the franchise’s signature blend of storytelling, open-world exploration, and action-packed gameplay. Key features include:
- Dynamic Criminal Empire Building: Players will manage operations like smuggling, extortion, and racketeering, adapting to rival families and government crackdowns.
- Branching Choices: Decisions will shape the protagonist’s fate, alliances, and the family’s influence, offering multiple story outcomes.
- Stealth and Strategy: Expanded stealth mechanics and a greater emphasis on planning criminal activities add depth to gameplay.
- Stunning Next-Gen Graphics: Built on an updated version of the Illusion Engine, the game promises breathtaking visuals and cinematic storytelling.
Developer Insights
Hangar 13’s creative director, Roman Hladík, shared the team’s vision for Mafia: The Old Country:
“We wanted to take fans to the birthplace of the Mafia and show them where it all began. This game is a love letter to the rich history of organized crime and the people caught in its web. Expect a story that’s both personal and epic in scale.”
Fans React to the Announcement
The announcement has been met with widespread excitement from fans of the series. Social media is abuzz with speculation about the storyline, characters, and gameplay innovations. One Reddit user wrote:
“Finally, a Mafia game set in Italy! This is the dream we’ve all been waiting for. Can’t wait to see how they bring Sicily to life.”
A Competitive Summer 2025
Mafia: The Old Country will launch in a competitive release window, but analysts predict it will stand out thanks to its unique premise and the enduring popularity of the franchise. With iconic entries like Mafia: Definitive Edition and Mafia II setting high standards, expectations are sky-high for this next chapter.
