Torrentgame – Mafia: The Old Country is shaping up to be a standout entry in the Mafia franchise, taking players back to the early 1900s and immersing them in the rugged and historically rich landscape of Sicily. Game director Alex Cox recently shed light on the creative decisions behind this new chapter and the unique gameplay elements it introduces.
A Return to Mafia’s Roots
Unlike its predecessors, which explored the American mafia’s evolution across different decades, The Old Country delves into the origins of the Mafia in Sicily. Cox explained that this change offers a “refreshing departure” for the team at Hangar 13, allowing them to explore a setting steeped in history and crime lore.
“We loved the idea of heading to Sicily and exploring the early years of this fearsome crime organization,” Cox said.
While previous games focused on bustling American cities, The Old Country captures the raw beauty of the Sicilian countryside, complete with horses, vintage vehicles, and even knife duels—a first for the series.
Gameplay Innovations
Cox highlighted several exciting new gameplay elements:
- Horses: For the first time, players will experience horseback riding, which Cox described as “incredibly freeing” as they gallop across the Sicilian landscape.
- Vintage Vehicles: Expect hand-crank cars from the era, adding an authentic yet challenging layer to transportation.
- Traditional Combat: The game features tactical combat with weapons like lupara shotguns and stiletto blades, emphasizing grit and realism.
A Commitment to Historical Accuracy
Hangar 13 took extensive measures to ensure historical authenticity:
- Developers visited Sicily to absorb its culture and landscape.
- A local Sicilian partner provided guidance on everything from architecture to language.
- The team consulted Sicilian history experts to incorporate era-specific details, down to the bricks and music.
New Yet Familiar
The Old Country introduces a fresh cast of characters, making it accessible to newcomers. However, Cox assured long-time fans that there are connections to the broader Mafia universe.
“Existing fans will get a kick out of how Mafia: The Old Country connects to the rest [of the franchise].”
A Step Back in Time
This entry’s focus on the early 1900s offers a more tactical and deliberate gameplay style, contrasting with the high-octane action of previous games. It promises to immerse players in the origins of one of the world’s most infamous criminal organizations, all while delivering an unforgettable narrative steeped in Sicilian culture and history.
Mafia: The Old Country is poised to be a unique addition to the franchise, blending authenticity with engaging gameplay. Whether you’re a series veteran or a newcomer, this journey through Sicily’s criminal past promises to be an unforgettable experience.
