As far as open-world action games go, the Mafia franchise has a special place in our hearts. A masterful blend of sandbox exploration and story – albeit slightly more linear than some would care for – regardless of what the critics have said, every cinematic entry has been one to remember. So you can understand the excitement surrounding the confirmation of Mafia 4.
“I’m happy to confirm we’ve started work on an all-new Mafia project!” said Roman Hladík, General Manager of 2K Games’ Hanger 13, during an interview celebrating the 20th anniversary of the original.
“While it’s a few years away and we can’t share anything more right now, we’re really excited to keep working on this beloved franchise and to entertain our players with new stories.”
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Previous instalments have centred upon a fictitious version of Chicago (“Lost Heaven”) during the 1930s, a fictitious version of New York City (“Empire Bay”) during the 1940s, and most recently, a fictitious version of New Orleans (“New Bordeaux”) during the 1960s. But where exactly is the franchise headed next?
Leaks suggest Mafia 4 could serve as a prequel to the existing trilogy, taking place in Sicily between 1890 and 1920; the latter end of the period being the Prohibition Era — hint hint. Appropriately dubbed “Project Nero” by its developers, it’ll involve the rise of the Salieri family, which stalwart fans may recall is the very syndicate you begin your criminal career with in Mafia (2002). Essentially, a playable version of The Godfather Part II.
Mafia 4 is also said to be built with the Unreal Engine 5 as opposed to the proprietary engine used for past games. In other words, we’re in for some eye candy.
Keep an eye out here for all the key details.
