Key Highlights
Here’s a quick look at what makes Mafia: The Old Country a unique experience:
- The critically acclaimed Mafia series travels back in time, serving as a prequel set in the early 1900s.
- You play as Enzo Favara, a young man who escapes a life of hardship to join the Torrisi crime family.
- The game is set in the beautiful and rugged Sicilian countryside, the “old country” where the Mafia began.
- It marks a return to a linear, story-focused experience rather than a sprawling open world.
- Expect a classic crime drama filled with cinematic storytelling, family, loyalty, and betrayal in Sicily.
Introduction
For years, the Mafia series has taken players on a chronological journey through the 20th-century American criminal underworld. From the 1930s to the late ’60s, each game moved the timeline forward. But what if the story went back to its roots? Mafia: The Old Country does just that, transporting you to the very beginning of the century in the “old country” itself. This prequel explores the formative years of the Mafia, offering a fresh perspective on the beloved franchise.
Story and Setting of Mafia: The Old Country
So, what is this new chapter all about? The game centers on Enzo Favara, a young Sicilian who escapes a brutal life of slavery in the sulfur mines. His path crosses with the Torrisi crime family, and he is soon taken under the wing of the enigmatic Don Torrisi. The story chronicles Enzo’s descent into the world of organized crime in early 1900s Sicily.
You’ll navigate a complex web of relationships, rivalries, and responsibilities as Enzo becomes more entangled in the criminal underworld. This journey is set against the stunning backdrop of the “old country,” a place of both breathtaking beauty and brutal violence. The narrative promises a classic mobster tale, focusing on the core themes that have defined the genre for decades.
Exploring 1900s Sicily: An Immersive Era
The game whisks you away to a time and place rarely seen in video games: Sicily in the early 1900s. Developer Hangar 13 has meticulously crafted a world that feels authentic to the period. The Sicilian countryside is a character in itself, with its rolling hills, vibrant flora, and the looming presence of a volcano in the distance. This isn’t a modern metropolis; you’ll be traversing dirt roads and exploring the rugged countryside.
You will experience a wide range of Sicilian environments, from the opulence of a Don’s villa to the grime of urban alleyways in the fictional town of San Celeste. The setting is more than just a pretty backdrop; it’s deeply integrated into the story. The architecture, the vehicles, and even the food on display are all designed to immerse you in this specific moment in history, providing a rich and evocative sense of place.
This focus on a contained, atmospheric world allows the developers to pack it with detail. You’ll feel the sun on your face as you ride through vineyards and hear the primitive engines of 120-year-old cars burbling along the coast. It’s an environment that feels both beautiful and dangerous, perfectly capturing the spirit of the era.
Themes of Family, Loyalty, and Betrayal
At its heart, Mafia: The Old Country is a story about what it means to be part of “the family.” The narrative hits many of the classic beats you’d expect from a gangster saga. You’ll encounter themes of loyalty, honor, and, inevitably, betrayal. As Enzo, you must navigate the treacherous waters of the criminal underworld, where a wrong word or a misplaced allegiance can have deadly consequences.
The story explores the complex dynamics within the Torrisi family. You’ll find a mentor figure, a hot-headed rival, and a forbidden love interest. These relationships are the emotional core of the game, driving the plot forward and forcing Enzo to make difficult choices. The concept of life in the family as both a source of power and a prison is a central theme, making Enzo a genuinely complex protagonist.
From managing protection rackets to engaging in murderous vendettas, the game doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of this lifestyle. While some story elements may feel familiar to fans of mob movies, they are elevated by strong writing and excellent vocal performances, creating an affecting and engaging narrative that will keep you gripped until the very end.
Place in the Mafia Franchise
Mafia: The Old Country is the fourth main entry in the critically acclaimed Mafia series, but it breaks from tradition. Instead of continuing the chronological progression seen in previous Mafia games, which took us from the 1930s to the 1960s, this installment is a prequel. It rewinds the clock to the turn of the 20th century, exploring the origins of the Sicilian Mafia.
This decision gives the game a unique identity within the franchise. While it is firmly part of the Mafia universe, its story and setting are distinct from the American cities of Empire Bay and New Bordeaux. This prequel approach allows for a fresh narrative while still carrying the thematic DNA of the series.
Connection to Previous Mafia Games
While The Old Country stands on its own, it doesn’t forget its roots. For long-time fans of the Mafia series, the game includes subtle connections to the previous entries. If you pay close attention, you’ll notice neat Easter eggs and narrative threads that tie into the larger universe of the franchise. These callbacks reward dedicated players without alienating newcomers.
The game’s setting in Sicily provides a stark contrast to the American cities that have defined the series so far. You’ll be leaving behind the familiar streets of:
- Lost Heaven from Mafia: Definitive Edition
- Empire Bay from Mafia II
- New Bordeaux from Mafia III
This shift to the birthplace of the Mafia offers a different cultural and historical context. It explores the circumstances that led to the organized crime syndicates players encountered in the previous Mafia games, adding a new layer of depth to the entire saga. It’s a fascinating look at the “why” behind the American mob stories.
Standalone Experience for New and Returning Players
Are you new to the Mafia series? Don’t worry. Mafia: The Old Country is designed as a perfect entry point. Because it’s a prequel with a new protagonist, you don’t need any prior knowledge of the series to understand and enjoy the story. The game is a completely standalone experience, focusing on Enzo Favara’s personal journey.
You are introduced to a fresh cast of characters and a self-contained plot. The narrative begins with Enzo’s quest to escape hardship and find a new life, a theme that is universally relatable. The story is self-sufficient, meaning you won’t feel lost or confused by references to events or characters from other games. It’s an invitation to experience the world of Mafia for the first time.
For returning players, the game offers a rich new chapter that expands the lore of the franchise. However, its primary goal is to tell a compelling, character-driven story that anyone can appreciate. Whether you’re a seasoned wiseguy or a complete newcomer, you can jump right in and get swept up in this classic crime drama.
Core Gameplay Features
Mafia: The Old Country shifts its gameplay focus back to what the series arguably does best: linear, cinematic storytelling. Developed by Hangar 13, the game moves away from the sprawling, activity-filled open world of Mafia III to deliver a more tightly crafted, narrative-driven experience. This is a single-player game through and through, with no multiplayer modes.
The gameplay is a mix of familiar third-person action and some innovative mechanics designed to fit the era. You’ll engage in cover-based shooting, visceral stealth, and unique one-on-one knife fights. The experience is built to serve the story, immersing you in Enzo’s world and the brutal realities of his new life.
Open-World Exploration Versus Story Missions
If you’re expecting a massive open world filled with endless side quests, you should adjust your expectations. Mafia: The Old Country prioritizes its story missions above all else. The game’s world, which includes the Sicilian countryside and the fictional town of San Celeste, serves primarily as a beautiful and immersive backdrop for the linear plot.
This approach means you won’t be distracted by a map cluttered with icons. Instead, your attention is focused squarely on the narrative. The world is there to enhance the sense of place and atmosphere, not to provide hours of optional content. This allows for a more streamlined and impactful story that, according to reviews, can be completed in well under 15 hours.
You will find that:
- The game is divided into chapters.
- Travel between objectives is often part of the mission.
- There’s no police system to worry about during free-roam.
- Side activities are minimal to nonexistent.
- An “Exploration Mode” is available if you just want to soak in the sights.
This design choice makes the game a “truncated triple-A” experience—one with high production values but a shorter, more focused duration.
Innovative Mechanics and Technical Enhancements
One of the biggest technical enhancements in The Old Country is the switch to Unreal Engine 5. This new engine helps bring the Sicilian landscape to life with stunning visuals and robust performance. While the previous games looked great, UE5 allows for more intricate detail, from the architecture to the incredible array of food on display.
In terms of gameplay, the combat system has been refined. You’ll use era-specific firearms like revolvers and repeaters in classic cover-based shootouts, some of which even take place on horseback. Stealth is also a viable and often necessary option. You can perform vicious stealth takedowns, use distractions, and hide bodies to clear an area without firing a shot. A sharp stiletto blade is a deadly asset for silent encounters.
Perhaps the most notable new feature is the one-on-one knife fights. These are cinematic, QTE-style boss encounters where you must dodge, parry, and slash your way to victory. While some critics found them a bit formulaic and overused, they provide a flashy and bloody break from the standard third-person action and are unlike anything seen in the series before.
Main Characters and Factions
The world of Mafia: The Old Country is populated by a cast of memorable and complex characters. At the center of this classic crime drama is the protagonist, Enzo Favara, a young man whose fate becomes intertwined with the powerful Torrisi crime family. He answers to the quiet but intimidating Don Torrisi, a man who commands respect and fear in equal measure.
The story is driven by the interactions between these characters and their conflicts with rival families. You’ll meet allies, mentors, and enemies who all play a part in Enzo’s journey. This web of relationships and power struggles forms the backbone of a narrative that feels both familiar and deeply engaging.
Key Protagonists and Their Motivations
The main protagonist you’ll be playing as is Enzo Favara. Voiced by Riccardo Frascari, Enzo begins the game as a sympathetic character, a young man sold into slavery to pay off his father’s debts. His primary motivation is simple: to escape a life of hardship and find a better life for himself. This desperation is what leads him into the arms of the Torrisi family.
As the story progresses, Enzo’s motivations become more complex. His loyalty is tested, and he is forced to confront the violence and treachery that come with his new position. A key part of his journey is his budding romance with Isabella, the Don’s daughter. This forbidden love adds another layer of conflict and keeps you engaged in his personal struggles.
Enzo is not a static protagonist; he grows and changes throughout the narrative. You will witness his transformation from a desperate youth to a seasoned member of the criminal underworld, all while he grapples with the moral cost of his choices. He is supported and challenged by characters like Luca, his mentor, and Cesare, the Don’s ambitious nephew.
Notable Crime Families and Allies
The primary faction you will be working for is the Torrisi crime family. This organization is led by the powerful Don Torrisi, portrayed with a quiet, husky intensity that makes him credibly intimidating. He is the kind of man that even hardened criminals would take orders from without question. His presence dominates every scene he’s in.
Within the Torrisi family, you’ll find key allies. These include:
- Luca: A loyal lieutenant and mentor figure to Enzo.
- Tino: The family’s cynical and chilling consigliere, who makes a strong impression from the very beginning.
Of course, no mob story is complete without conflict. The Torrisi family is locked in a struggle for control with rival families. The most prominent of these is the Spadaro crime family, the ruthless leaders who run the sulfur mines where Enzo’s story begins. These rivalries fuel much of the game’s action, leading to violent confrontations and turf wars across the Sicilian landscape.
Platforms and Availability
Ready to jump into the world of early 1900s Sicily? Mafia: The Old Country is available on the latest generation of gaming hardware. You can play it on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. The game is built to take advantage of these powerful systems, offering stunning visuals and a smooth experience whether you’re using a mouse and keyboard or a controller.
Purchasing the game is straightforward. It’s available for download through major digital storefronts, making it easily accessible to players around the world. You can head to your platform’s online store to secure your copy and begin Enzo Favara’s journey.
Supported Gaming Systems
Mafia: The Old Country has been developed for modern gaming systems, ensuring a high-quality experience. The game is not available on last-generation consoles like the PlayStation 4 or Xbox One, as it has been built to leverage the power of newer hardware. The supported platforms are PC and the current-gen consoles from Sony and Microsoft.
The game offers full controller support on PC, so you can play with your preferred input method. The developers have also included a range of accessibility options, such as settings for aim assist and a “simulation” driving mode for those who want a more realistic feel.
Here is a quick breakdown of the supported gaming systems:
|
Platform |
Storefront(s) |
|---|---|
|
PC |
Steam |
|
PlayStation 5 |
PlayStation Store |
|
Xbox Series X/S |
Microsoft Store |
No matter which of these platforms you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy the full, cinematic story of Enzo Favara and the Torrisi family.
Purchasing and Download Options
Getting your hands on Mafia: The Old Country is simple. The game is available as a digital download on all its supported platforms. You can purchase it directly from the comfort of your home and start playing right away. There’s no need to wait for a physical copy to arrive.
You can find the game on the following digital marketplaces:
- PC: Available on Steam.
- PlayStation 5: Available on the PlayStation Store.
- Xbox Series X/S: Available on the Microsoft Store.
If you’re still on the fence, it’s a good idea to check out the official teaser trailer to get a feel for the game’s atmosphere and style. You can also find an Old Country review from your favorite gaming outlet to get a more in-depth look at its story and gameplay. Once you’re ready, just head to your platform’s store and make the purchase.
Critical Reception and Community Feedback
Since its release on August 7, 2025, Mafia: The Old Country has been in the public eye, generating a mix of reviews from critics and fans. The general consensus is that the game is a beautiful, atmospheric experience with a compelling story and strong performances. Its depiction of 1900s Sicily has been widely praised.
However, the reception isn’t universally positive. Many reviews point out that the gameplay mechanics, particularly the combat and stealth, feel dated and simplistic. This has led to a divide in opinion, with some loving the focused narrative and others feeling let down by the shallow gameplay.
Reviews from Major Outlets
Major gaming outlets have offered varied takes on The Old Country. Some critics have praised the game for its return to a linear, story-driven format. Luke Reilly of IGN, in a fictional review article, stated, “Mafia: The Old Country is a conventional but effective return to the linear and tightly story-driven format of the original Mafia and Mafia II, and it boasts a wonderful eye and ear for detail.” [source: https://www.ign.com/articles/mafia-the-old-country-review-2025]. This sentiment is shared by those who felt Mafia III‘s open world was bloated.
In stark contrast, other reviews have been less forgiving of the gameplay. PC Gamer’s Joshua Wolens called it “the weakest Mafia yet,” citing a “cliched mob story and bland, frustrating gameplay” [source: https://www.pcgamer.com/mafia-the-old-country-review-pc/]. Many critics agree that while the game is gorgeous to look at, the third-person shooting is generic and the instant-fail stealth segments are frustrating relics of a bygone era.
Ultimately, the reviews paint a picture of a game with incredible artistic merit and a solid classic crime drama at its core, but one that is held back by mechanics that haven’t evolved with the times. It’s a game of two halves: a stunning narrative vehicle with a rusty engine.
Fan Impressions and Early Responses
The community feedback from fans largely mirrors the critical reception. Many players who prioritize story, atmosphere, and character development are having a very good time. These fans appreciate the focused narrative and the chance to get lost in a beautifully realized historical setting. They enjoy the cinematic quality and the strong performances that bring the characters to life.
On the other hand, players who were hoping for deep, modern gameplay have been more critical. Common complaints in early responses online include:
- Frustration with the simplistic and sometimes clunky combat.
- Disappointment in the shallow stealth and dated mission design.
- A feeling that the beautiful world lacks meaningful interactivity.
This split shows that your enjoyment of Mafia: The Old Country will likely depend on what you’re looking for. If you want a gripping, cinematic mob story and are willing to overlook some dated gameplay, you’ll probably love it. If you demand cutting-edge mechanics, you might walk away disappointed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Mafia: The Old Country” offers an enthralling journey through the rich tapestry of history and storytelling that the Mafia franchise is known for. With its immersive setting in 1900s Sicily, players are invited to delve deep into themes of family, loyalty, and betrayal. The game stands out not only for its captivating narrative but also for its innovative mechanics and open-world exploration, appealing to both newcomers and veterans alike. As you embark on this adventure, remember to embrace the characters and factions that shape this dynamic world. If you’re eager to experience this unique blend of history and gaming, don’t hesitate to check it out and immerse yourself in the life of the old country!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mafia: The Old Country suitable for newcomers?
Absolutely! The game is a standalone prequel, so you don’t need to have played any previous entries in the Mafia series. You can jump right into Enzo Favara’s story as he seeks a new life and get the full experience without any prior knowledge of the franchise’s lore.
Does the game offer multiplayer or only single-player?
Mafia: The Old Country is a strictly single-player experience. The gameplay is designed to support a deep, cinematic storytelling journey for one player. There are no multiplayer or co-op modes, as the focus is entirely on the narrative and immersing you in its world and characters.
What makes Mafia: The Old Country stand out in its genre?
The game’s unique setting in the early 1900s Sicilian countryside truly sets it apart. This era and location are rarely explored in gaming. This, combined with its return to a linear, narrative-focused structure and innovative mechanics like the cinematic knife fights, creates a distinctive take on the classic crime drama.