Mafia: The Old Country is not following Mafia III’s open-world format but will instead take the shape of a “linear, narrative-driven” experience, according to 2K Games.
The publisher confirmed this in an FAQ that was published today alongside news of the game’s release date and a new gameplay trailer. Additionally, Mafia: The Old Country is bucking a AAA trend and will sell for $50 (a more expensive, digital-only Deluxe edition is also going to be available).
“We think there’s a large audience for compelling stories that don’t require massive time commitments,” 2K President David Ismailer said in a press release. “We’re excited to offer a game like Mafia: The Old Country in our portfolio, and to provide a linear highly-polished narrative experience that can easily complement the other more persistent games our players also love and engage with on a more consistent basis.”
This is a notable development considering many games and publishers have leaned into bigger open-world designs that require significant time investments to play and enjoy. These might be referred to as “lifestyle” games. Players have so far generally responded positively to the news that Mafia: The Old Country is taking a different approach, but of course, it’s still early days.
The $60 Deluxe edition includes a range of bonus items, including special guns, outfits, and accessories, along with the game’s score and a digital artbook. Everyone who preorders The Old Country gets the Soldato Pack, which includes various cosmetics.
The Old Country takes place in 1900s Sicily, with players taking on the role of mobster Enzo Favara. 2K says the game will play out like a “classic mob movie,” featuring a “cast of unpredictable allies and cutthroat enemies.” In terms of combat, players will shoot and stab people with knives and shotguns, while players can traverse the Sicilian countryside on horseback or in cars.
The Old Country launches on August 8 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. It’ll be followed by another big 2K game, Borderlands 4, in September.
