Fans of the Mafia video game franchise have reason to celebrate as the highly anticipated title, Mafia: The Old Country, is officially set to launch on August 8, 2025. Developed by Hangar 13 and published by 2K, this new installment marks a significant return to the series' roots, offering a linear, story-driven experience that transports players to the early 20th century in Sicily.
In a move that contrasts sharply with the rising prices of many AAA games, Mafia: The Old Country will be available at a surprisingly low price. The Standard Edition will retail for $49.99, while the Deluxe Edition, which includes a plethora of additional content, will be priced at $59.99. This pricing strategy aims to make the game accessible to a broader audience, allowing both new and veteran players to dive into the Mafia universe.
Pre-orders for Mafia: The Old Country opened on May 8, 2025, coinciding with the release of the game's first gameplay trailer. The trailer showcases the rich, immersive world players can expect, highlighting the game's focus on narrative-driven gameplay rather than the open-world mechanics seen in previous entries.
The narrative centers around Enzo Favara, a young man navigating the treacherous landscape of the Sicilian mafia in 1905, 25 years before the events of the franchise's first game. Themes of loyalty, honor, and survival are woven throughout the story, providing players with a gritty and emotional gaming experience.
For those opting for the Deluxe Edition, the game includes the Padrino Pack, featuring exclusive items such as the Lupara Speciale shotgun, Vendetti Speciale pistol, Stiletto Speciale knife, Immortale charm, Padrino outfit, Eckhart Speciale limousine, and the Cosimo horse with accessories. Additionally, the Deluxe Edition comes with the Gatto Nero Pack, which includes the Bodeo Nero pistol, Velocita charm, Gatto Nero racing outfit, and the Carozella Nero racing car. Buyers will also receive a digital version of the game’s soundtrack, a digital artbook, and developer notes, enhancing the overall experience.
Pre-order bonuses for both editions include the Soldato Pack, which consists of the Soldato outfit, Scannaturi Speciale knife, Lupara charm, and the Tesoro horse and accessories. These items will likely be available for purchase separately after the game's release, providing ongoing value for players.
Hangar 13 has emphasized the game's focus on delivering a polished and engaging narrative experience. The developers have stated that Mafia: The Old Country is a "focused, linear experience that combines quality storytelling, authentic era immersion, and a refined take on the familiar Mafia gameplay." This approach allows for a more intimate exploration of the characters and their motivations, moving away from the sprawling open-world format of past titles.
At the PAX East event, 2K President David Ismailer expressed enthusiasm for the game's direction, stating, "We think there's a large audience for compelling stories that don't require massive time commitments." This sentiment reflects a growing trend in the gaming industry, where players are increasingly seeking experiences that are both engaging and manageable within their busy lives.
In addition to its compelling narrative, Mafia: The Old Country will be the first title in the franchise to utilize Unreal Engine 5, promising stunning visuals and an immersive atmosphere that brings early 20th-century Sicily to life. The technical advancements offered by this engine are expected to enhance the overall gameplay experience, making it one of the standout releases of 2025.
The game will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam, and it will also feature day-one support for NVIDIA's GeForce NOW, allowing players to stream the game on their PCs. This flexibility ensures that fans can enjoy the game in a way that best suits their preferences.
As excitement builds for the release of Mafia: The Old Country, players are encouraged to pre-order to secure their bonuses and prepare for an adventure filled with drama, action, and historical depth. With its affordable price, compelling narrative, and breathtaking visuals, the game is poised to capture the hearts of both long-time fans and newcomers to the Mafia franchise.
In summary, Mafia: The Old Country represents a significant evolution for the series, blending classic Mafia gameplay with a fresh, focused narrative approach. As the release date approaches, fans eagerly await the opportunity to step into the shoes of Enzo Favara and experience the dangerous allure of the Sicilian mafia.
