The long-awaited new entry in the Mafia franchise, titled Mafia: The Old Country, has just received a new gameplay video highlighting its intense focus on the combat system. Set in early 20th-century Sicily, the game promises a cinematic and tense experience, with an emphasis on raw violence, tactical choices, and deep storytelling.
The newly released gameplay footage makes it clear that combat will be one of the central pillars of this new installment, marking a return to the series’ roots—this time enhanced by modern technology and a never-before-seen setting.
Story and Setting: Back to the Mafia’s Roots
Unlike previous games that explored Prohibition-era or post-war America, Mafia: The Old Country takes players to the birthplace of the Sicilian mafia. The plot follows Enzo Favara, a young orphan who becomes entangled with the powerful Torrisi Family, facing moral dilemmas, betrayals, and bloody conflicts as he struggles to survive and earn respect.
The fictional city of San Celeste offers an immersive portrayal of 1900s Sicily, featuring stone villages, rural fields, monasteries, and ancient ruins. This setting directly influences the gameplay, with tight spaces, limited escape routes, and a thick atmosphere of tension.
Combat System: Tactical, Lethal, and Emotional
The new trailer shows that combat will be more tactical and realistic than in previous Mafia games. Every encounter demands precision—ammo is scarce, the pace is deliberate, and enemies are deadly. The developers emphasized that “every bullet counts,” encouraging players to think before pulling the trigger.
In addition to gunfights, melee combat plays a major role, especially with the use of the stiletto—a small knife typical of the Italian mafia. The fight animations are detailed, featuring blocks, counters, and brutal executions. This system brings a sense of urgency and weight to every confrontation.
Players can also adopt a stealthy approach, silently taking out enemies and using shadows or cover to remain undetected. This adds variety and depth to the gameplay, allowing for different playstyles.
Cinematic Style and Next-Gen Graphics Engine
The game is being developed using Unreal Engine 5, which enables stunning visuals, realistic lighting, and richly detailed environments. This visual realism directly enhances immersion during combat, where every shot, hit, or explosion feels visceral.
Another highlight is the seamless transition between cutscenes and gameplay. The game follows a continuous narrative structure with no visible loading screens, reinforcing the feeling of being inside a true mafia film.
Community Reactions: High Expectations with Caution
Following the gameplay trailer’s release, the gaming community expressed excitement about the new tactical combat focus and the return to the franchise’s more grounded style. Many praised the dark tone, historical setting, and brutal hand-to-hand combat.
On the other hand, some players voiced concerns about the slower pace of the fights and the potential repetition of mechanics seen in previous titles. Minor criticisms were raised about animation fluidity and the impact of gunshot sounds, though these aspects may still be polished before release.
Release and Accessible Scope
Mafia: The Old Country is set to launch on August 8, 2025, for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The suggested price is $49.99, signaling a mid-scope project but with AAA production values.
According to the development team, the goal is to deliver a rich and intense narrative experience, with a main campaign lasting approximately 12 to 15 hours, avoiding unnecessary content padding.
Conclusion: A Promising Return to Form
Mafia: The Old Country is shaping up to be a landmark entry for fans of the series. With its focus on strategic combat, immersive historical setting, and a tension-filled narrative, the game seems poised to recapture the true essence of the mafia in gaming.
Combining brutality, emotion, and authenticity, the title not only honors the legacy of the franchise—it paves the way for a new era where every decision, every shot, and every blow carries weight—just as it should in a true mafia story.
