Mafia: The Old Country isn’t just another chapter in the beloved series – it’s a deep dive into the origins of organized crime. This prequel takes us to early 1900s Sicily, a time when loyalty, power, and honor were the foundation of the Mafia. But why is the series going back to its roots, and how does the game portray organized crime? Let’s break it down.
Why Back to the Roots of Organized Crime?
The decision to set Mafia: The Old Country in early 20th century Italy isn’t just a creative twist. It’s a deliberate move to explore the Mafia’s beginnings – a time when it was deeply tied to family bonds, poverty, and social inequality. Unlike the glitzy gangster stories in later Mafia titles, this game focuses on survival and building power from the ground up.
The developers at Hangar 13 have said in interviews that they wanted to capture the Mafia’s true essence. While Mafia III highlighted racial tension and modern corruption, The Old Country returns to the traditional, almost archaic values of the Cosa Nostra: respect, honor, and brutal consequences.
How Does Organized Crime Work in the Game?
In Mafia: The Old Country, you’ll become part of the Torrisi family, an up-and-coming Mafia clan in Sicily. You play as Enzo Favara, a laborer who rises through the ranks thanks to his loyalty and determination. But climbing the ladder isn’t easy – and here’s where the game’s portrayal of organized crime gets interesting:
-
Family Structure and Hierarchy: Every Mafia family operates under strict rules and roles. You’ll carry out missions for the family, forge alliances, and take out rival clans – all under the watchful eye of Don Torrisi.
-
Loyalty Matters: Your decisions have real consequences. Risk too much or align with the wrong people, and you’ll face fallout – whether it’s losing trust within your clan or sparking bloody retaliation from rivals.
-
Economy and Power: Beyond classic criminal activities like extortion and smuggling, you’ll work to control villages and towns. Strategic thinking is key to securing your family’s influence.
What’s Changed?
Compared to earlier games in the series, Mafia: The Old Country focuses more on historical authenticity and the development of the Mafia as an institution. While Mafia II and Mafia III showcased established criminal empires, this entry tells the story of their dangerous beginnings.
One standout feature is the language and culture. The dialogue is authentic, with characters speaking Italian or Sicilian dialect – a touch that makes the world feel incredibly immersive.
The game also shifts away from over-the-top action, leaning heavily into atmosphere and storytelling. Instead of just wreaking havoc, you’ll focus on building long-term power and understanding the inner workings of organized crime.
Why This Theme is So Intriguing
There’s a reason Mafia stories have fascinated audiences for decades – in movies, TV, and now video games. With Mafia: The Old Country, players get the rare chance to experience the Mafia’s origins firsthand. It’s not just a game; it’s a journey into a time when honor meant everything, and loyalty was the key to survival.
Mafia: The Old Country is set to release in Summer 2025 for Xbox Series X|S and can now be added to your wishlist on the Microsoft Store.
