INTRODUCTION
Embarking on a glorious gangster journey with Mafia II, a thrilling sequel to Mafia: The City of Lost Heaven, takes players on an unparalleled adventure, as immersive as it is compelling. This opus has been carefully crafted by the talented hands of the 2K Czech team, previously known as Illusion Softworks, and was brought to life in 2008 under the auspices of Take-Two Interactive. Not confined by the Mafia series, the creators have also lent their genius to other critically acclaimed tactical shooters like Hidden and Dangerous and Vietcong. But enough with the preamble; let’s dive right into the grimy, blood-splattered streets of Empire Bay.
A DEEP-DIVE INTO THE PLOT
One cannot ignore the nostalgia oozing from the storyline of Mafia II, studded with numerous callbacks to its predecessor. However, the narrative unfolds over a decade and changes following the first game’s events. A brand-new protagonist, Vittorio Scaletta, strides onto the stage after completing his military service in 1945. Returning to his hometown Empire Bay, he reunites with his old pal Joe Barbaro.
But alas, the only prospect for Vito in the new reality is a stable yet meagerly compensated job at the local docks – a fate he vehemently rejects. Scaletta decides to walk on the wild side, charting a course into the underworld. As the game progresses, he ascends the ranks of the local Mafia family, ultimately becoming a fully-fledged mafioso.
MECHANICAL INTRICACIES
For those who enjoyed the mechanics of the original Mafia, Mafia II amplifies these features to greater heights. The gameplay unfolds in a sprawling metropolis stretching over ten square miles. Empire Bay, a cheeky nod to New York, is segmented into several diverse districts, each with its unique ambiance.
In true Mafia fashion, the story follows a linear path, taking the player on a 10-15 hour ride filled with thrilling chases, shadowy tasks, and occasional police evasion. However, the game doesn’t tether you to the story alone; it tempts you with intriguing side plots and various activities, serving up a hearty meal of gangster life.
FREEDOM AND INTERACTIVITY
Mafia II ups the ante when it comes to freedom and exploration. The city pulses with life, luring players into various law-skirting activities. The game allows 50 vehicles to be stolen, modified and upgraded.
Various shops scattered around Empire Bay offer clothes, food, and weaponry. In addition, the protagonist has a broader range of abilities, enabling him to exhibit new moves, take cover, and hurdle obstacles. The game setting and aesthetics reflect the harsher world of the 40s and 50s, with faster cars.
TECHNICAL PERSPECTIVE
Mafia II’s development started in 2004, intending to release it on similar platforms as the first installment. However, it finally debuted on advanced personal computers and next-generation consoles. Boasting much better graphics than its 2002 predecessor, the game utilizes a fresh engine named Illusion and the realistic physics engine PhysX.
Thanks to these, the game features incredibly animated faces, superior quality cutscenes, and dynamic time flow encapsulated by day/night cycles and varying seasons. A laudable feature is a fantastic soundtrack that complements the era depicted in the game.
NOSTALGIC THREADS
Both Mafia games are interwoven with the narrative of Thomas Angelo, the first game’s protagonist, providing a deep sense of continuity. In a shocking twist, the sequel reveals that Vito Scaletta and Joe Barbaro were responsible for Angelo’s assassination. Players will find the same heart-stopping scene from the original Mafia game recreated in Mafia II, down to the same red getaway car. This intricate web of narrative threads ensures the legacy of the first Mafia game lives on in its exciting successor.
