On August 8, 2025, 2K and Hangar 13 will release Mafia: The Old Country, a third-person action-adventure game that delves into the origins of organized crime in early 1900s Sicily. This prequel to the acclaimed Mafia series introduces players to Enzo Favara, a young man striving to earn his place in the Torrisi crime family.
A Return to the Series’ Roots
Unlike its predecessor, Mafia III, which featured an expansive open world, The Old Country offers a focused, linear narrative. Hangar 13 President Nick Baynes describes the game as “gritty, grounded, brutal, and emotional,” emphasizing a streamlined experience that prioritizes storytelling over open-world exploration.
Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing Sicily, the game immerses players in a world where trust is scarce, and loyalty is paramount. The narrative explores Enzo’s journey from a life of hardship to becoming a “man of honor” within the Cosa Nostra.
Gameplay Mechanics and Combat
Mafia: The Old Country introduces a blend of stealth and combat mechanics. Players can engage in close-quarters knife fights, utilize period-authentic firearms, and navigate environments on horseback or in early 20th-century automobiles. The game’s combat system emphasizes resource management, with a design philosophy that “every bullet counts.”
The game also features one-on-one knife duels inspired by Sicilian traditions, adding a layer of authenticity to the combat experience.
Visuals and Setting
Developed using Unreal Engine 5, The Old Country offers detailed environments ranging from rural villages and vineyards to urban alleyways and ornate opera houses. The game’s visuals aim to capture the contrasts of early 1900s Sicily, providing a rich and immersive setting for the narrative.
Editions and Pre-Order Bonuses
The game will be available in two editions:
- Standard Edition: Priced at $49.99, includes the base game.
- Deluxe Edition: Priced at $59.99, includes the base game and additional in-game items such as exclusive weapons, outfits, and vehicles.
Pre-ordering either edition grants access to the “Soldato Pack,” featuring unique cosmetics and a special charm.
Developer Insights and Community Engagement
Ahead of the release, Hangar 13 hosted a developer panel at PAX East on May 8, providing fans with insights into the game’s development and design choices. The panel offered a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of The Old Country, emphasizing the team’s commitment to authenticity and narrative depth.
Fans can stay updated on the latest news and trailers by following the official Mafia social media channels and visiting the game’s official website.
Mafia: The Old Country aims to deliver a compelling narrative experience that honors the series’ roots while introducing new gameplay mechanics and a richly detailed setting. With its focus on storytelling, authentic combat, and immersive environments, the game is poised to offer players a deep dive into the origins of organized crime.
Pre-orders are now available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. For more information, visit the official Mafia website.
