Mafia Series Makes Shocking Change with New Game: Mafia: The Old Country
Hangar 13 just made a dramatic change for its Mafia series. Its new game, Mafia: The Old Country, will not have the open-world setting fans are accustomed to. Instead, the developers are focusing more on the story with an aim to give a more condensed, immersive story experience.
According to the new FAQ on the game's official website, The Old Country will focus more on a formal structured gameplay experience driven by the storytelling rather than allowing open-world play.
Pre-Orders Now Open at Discount Price
Hangar 13 has also started taking pre-orders for the game, pricing it at $49.99—which is noticeably lower than many current AAA games. This could be a smart move to attract both longtime fans and newcomers, especially given the game’s more focused approach.
A Step Back or a Bold Move?
The shift away from open-world development is a surprise turn for the Mafia franchise. Yet while some players may regret not being able to explore sweeping cityscapes at their leisure, other players may embrace a return to a more narrative-driven, linear approach like the original Mafia game.
Analysts in the industry feel that the shift heralds a trend that is gaining momentum among developers: understanding that bigger is not always better, particularly for games that aim to tell a good story.
What to Expect from Mafia: The Old Country
While gameplay information remains a mystery, here's what players can anticipate:
- Intense, Story-Focused Gameplay: Less roaming around, more focus on the main plot.
- Character-Driven Experience: Deeper character development with a stronger narrative focus.
- Highly Detailed Environments: Smaller but more carefully crafted areas that enhance the story.
- Less Side Content: Fewer side missions and activities to keep players locked into the main storyline.
Fans will have to wait for more updates to see how this shift in design will play out. Whether it’s a one-off experiment or a new direction for the franchise, it’s definitely a bold move for the Mafia series.
