Latest news with #Hangar13
Business Mayor
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Mayor
Mafia: The Old Country was inspired by The Godfather and Sicilian knife fights
Table of Contents Table of Contents The passage of time Knives out During PAX East 2025, 2K revealed its latest trailer for Mafia: The Old Country . The latest entry in the long-running crime series will deliver familiar mob action that fans have come to expect, but it's bringing one big change too. Rather than taking place in America, players will now get to run wild in Sicily. Shortly after the trailer was revealed, Digital Trends sat down with members of the Mafia development team to chat about the latest installment. The team tells us why it decided to take the series to Italy and revealed how the Sicilian setting changed the game. One big impact that the shift had? Knife fighting. Lots of knife fighting. The Mafia series has a long history of putting players in the cement shoes of various mobsters from the 20th century. The majority of its installments up until now take place all throughout America, primarily on the East Coast. That's all while telling a compelling story with characters to which players typically get attached. Mafia: The Old Country is looking to shake things up. Game director Alex Cox had a simple elevator pitch for the latest entry. 'The way we described this from the very beginning was Mafia meets The Godfather in 1900s Sicily,' Cox tells Digital Trends. 'That's the internal phrase we used when talking to other developers, because it gives you a really clear image in your head of what the game is immediately.' Nick Baynes, studio president at Hangar 13, reassures fans that it will be a 'classic Mafia mob story.' The only difference is that it'll take place in a 'brand new, beautiful location.' One of the many things that has Baynes excited is that it's a prequel to the other installments. That's because he sees it as 'a great jumping on point' for new players. Hangar 13 / 2K Games Both setting and time are crucial to The Old Country . Since it'll be taking place in the early 1900s, players will see the transition from one era to another. That's by design, because the passage of time plays a major thematic role in the story. 'It's a period of change in Sicily,' Cox says. 'There's a big number of Sicilians at that time who started to emigrate to America. That's something we've tried to reflect on through the whole creative development from the story and mechanics as well.' Baynes says that players will begin to notice this as they play through the game. He points to the world's streets as an example, explaining how players will quickly notice how some roads in-game are better suited for horse travel while others are clearly made with vehicles in mind. As they progress further into the story, players will begin to see horse roads slowly being phased out in favor of ones built for cars. The team really wanted to focus on combat this time around, making it feel more dangerous. Every bullet counts, which is why the devs implemented a looting feature that players can perform after combat. Ammo preservation is paramount, so some dirty scavenging is required to stay alive. Players won't just mow down rivals in shootouts, though. Knives play an important role in combat this time, as blades come with distinct abilities. The addition of knife dueling isn't just a twist for the sake of change; it ties back into the story and setting. Read More Crash Bandicoot: N. Sane Trilogy surpasses 20M copies sold 'Sicily has a knife-fighting tradition, and it's something we felt was quite iconic for the idea of Sicilian gangsters,' Cox says. '[Knife Dueling] is a special gameplay mode, where certain characters will appear as bosses, and you have to fight them to death with your knife.' This is probably the only time we visit a location like this in the Mafia series. Getting this right was so important that the team sent a few members to Sicily to meet those who make traditional Sicilian knives and watch how these knife fights would play out in real life. It wasn't just a cool field trip for the team, but important research to make sure that the combat felt as accurate to its inspiration as possible. That bleeds into a larger theme with The Old Country , as Italian authenticity was the goal. The team wanted to ensure that players got a unique cultural experience while still staying true to the Mafia identity. ''How is it different to play in Sicily?' It's the knives, the location. We're having combat in Greek ruins and in catacombs under the ground. Locations that are very distinctive to Sicily. We have horse chases [where you] jump onto cars.' 2K It was essential to create this sense of adventure because it may be one of a kind. 'This is probably the only time we visit a location like this in the Mafia series,' Cox says. Since The Old Country isn't in an urban environment like previous titles, it allowed the team to 'go heavy' when it came to leaning into the 'thrilling adventure vibe.' The team is putting in a lot of work to ensure that Mafia: The Old Country respects Sicilian culture while still creating something that fits in the Mafia universe. You can see all of this for yourself in the new trailer, which features glimpses of knife fights and the new setting. Even if you're a Mafia newcomer, The Old Country seems like it will be a strong starting point that functions both as an entry to the series and a portal to another era. Mafia: The Old Country launches on August 8 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Digital Trends
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Digital Trends
Mafia: The Old Country was inspired by The Godfather and Sicilian knife fights
Table of Contents Table of Contents The passage of time Knives out During PAX East 2025, 2K revealed its latest trailer for Mafia: The Old Country. The latest entry in the long-running crime series will deliver familiar mob action that fans have come to expect, but it's bringing one big change too. Rather than taking place in America, players will now get to run wild in Sicily. Shortly after the trailer was revealed, Digital Trends sat down with members of the Mafia development team to chat about the latest installment. The team tells us why it decided to take the series to Italy and revealed how the Sicilian setting changed the game. One big impact that the shift had? Knife fighting. Lots of knife fighting. Recommended Videos The passage of time The Mafia series has a long history of putting players in the cement shoes of various mobsters from the 20th century. The majority of its installments up until now take place all throughout America, primarily on the East Coast. That's all while telling a compelling story with characters to which players typically get attached. Mafia: The Old Country is looking to shake things up. Game director Alex Cox had a simple elevator pitch for the latest entry. 'The way we described this from the very beginning was Mafia meets The Godfather in 1900s Sicily,' Cox tells Digital Trends. 'That's the internal phrase we used when talking to other developers, because it gives you a really clear image in your head of what the game is immediately.' Nick Baynes, studio president at Hangar 13, reassures fans that it will be a 'classic Mafia mob story.' The only difference is that it'll take place in a 'brand new, beautiful location.' One of the many things that has Baynes excited is that it's a prequel to the other installments. That's because he sees it as 'a great jumping on point' for new players. Both setting and time are crucial to The Old Country. Since it'll be taking place in the early 1900s, players will see the transition from one era to another. That's by design, because the passage of time plays a major thematic role in the story. 'It's a period of change in Sicily,' Cox says. 'There's a big number of Sicilians at that time who started to emigrate to America. That's something we've tried to reflect on through the whole creative development from the story and mechanics as well.' Baynes says that players will begin to notice this as they play through the game. He points to the world's streets as an example, explaining how players will quickly notice how some roads in-game are better suited for horse travel while others are clearly made with vehicles in mind. As they progress further into the story, players will begin to see horse roads slowly being phased out in favor of ones built for cars. Knives out The team really wanted to focus on combat this time around, making it feel more dangerous. Every bullet counts, which is why the devs implemented a looting feature that players can perform after combat. Ammo preservation is paramount, so some dirty scavenging is required to stay alive. Players won't just mow down rivals in shootouts, though. Knives play an important role in combat this time, as blades come with distinct abilities. The addition of knife dueling isn't just a twist for the sake of change; it ties back into the story and setting. 'Sicily has a knife-fighting tradition, and it's something we felt was quite iconic for the idea of Sicilian gangsters,' Cox says. '[Knife Dueling] is a special gameplay mode, where certain characters will appear as bosses, and you have to fight them to death with your knife.' This is probably the only time we visit a location like this in the Mafia series. Getting this right was so important that the team sent a few members to Sicily to meet those who make traditional Sicilian knives and watch how these knife fights would play out in real life. It wasn't just a cool field trip for the team, but important research to make sure that the combat felt as accurate to its inspiration as possible. That bleeds into a larger theme with The Old Country, as Italian authenticity was the goal. The team wanted to ensure that players got a unique cultural experience while still staying true to the Mafia identity. ''How is it different to play in Sicily?' It's the knives, the location. We're having combat in Greek ruins and in catacombs under the ground. Locations that are very distinctive to Sicily. We have horse chases [where you] jump onto cars.' It was essential to create this sense of adventure because it may be one of a kind. 'This is probably the only time we visit a location like this in the Mafia series,' Cox says. Since The Old Country isn't in an urban environment like previous titles, it allowed the team to 'go heavy' when it came to leaning into the 'thrilling adventure vibe.' The team is putting in a lot of work to ensure that Mafia: The Old Country respects Sicilian culture while still creating something that fits in the Mafia universe. You can see all of this for yourself in the new trailer, which features glimpses of knife fights and the new setting. Even if you're a Mafia newcomer, The Old Country seems like it will be a strong starting point that functions both as an entry to the series and a portal to another era. Mafia: The Old Country launches on August 8 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Time of India
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Mafia The Old Country release date, platforms, and more
Image via Hangar 13. After nine long years, the long-hailed Mafia gaming franchise is back with Mafia: The Old Country. As part of 2K's Gamescom showcase, the fourth mainline entry in the Mafia franchise was revealed in August 2024. The publisher has previously promised that the game would launch in 2025. The Old Country will serve as the prequel of the very first game of the series, which actually set the tone for the franchise in 2002. Operation Sindoor 'Did not want to...': Pak def min gives absurd excuse for army's failure to withstand Op Sindoor Blackouts, sirens & Pak's failed attacks: 10 things that happened in the last 36 hrs '1971 war was not remotely as terrifying': Residents of border areas shell-shocked It's been almost a year-long wait for the fans, but that wait is over because Hangar 13 has recently revealed the trailer of the game, announcing the release date and other info. Everything you need to know about Mafia: The Old Country Mafia: The Old Country is releasing on August 8. | Image via Hangar 13. Hangar 13 has shared the game's first official trailer as well, bearing the official release date which is on August 8, 2025. However, it was already leaked . Initially it was confirmed that the game would be released on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows. Now, the developers have confirmed it will be released on GeForce Now as well. So, whoever owns a subscription of this service, will be able to stream it on PC. Mafia: The Old Country - 'Whatever it Takes' Gameplay Trailer | PS5 Games In this game, players have to fill their shoes in the role of Enzo Favara who will embark upon his journey in Cosa Nostra in 1900s's Sicily, where he will fight for his survival. The interesting part is that this upcoming title is not going to be priced in the typical modern AAA bracket. The game is now available to pre-order in two editions: Standard and Deluxe, which are priced at $49.99 and $59.99 respectively. For those who pre-order, the Solidato Pack is included with both editions. The Soldato ensemble, the Scannaturi Speciale knife, the Tesor horse and accessories, and the Lupara charm are all included. Along with all of these, Deluxe Edition comes with Padrino Pack, Gatto Nero Pack, and many other perks. Not only is this the first mainline entry in the Mafia franchise, this installment also marks the first title to be powered by Unreal Engine 5. More information on Mafia: The Old Country will be revealed by Hangar 13 at its next PAX East developer panel, which is set to begin later today at 2 PM. ET/11 a.m. PT/7 PM BST. Read More: Mafia: The Old Country trailer gives a sneak peek into the brutal underworld of early 90s Sicily
CNET
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- CNET
Mafia: The Old Country Won't Be Open World and Will Cost $50
Mafia: The Old Country will release on Aug. 8, 2025, publisher 2K Games announced today. The game, developed by Hangar 13, will feature a standard edition for $49.99 and a deluxe edition for $59.99, and will be available for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, as well as prepurchase on PC via Steam. You can check out the first official gameplay trailer. "Mafia: The Old Country is a compelling story that doesn't require a massive time commitment, and we believe these prices reflect the value of this highly polished linear narrative experience," the developer said in a statement. This is good news, considering the cost of most games and consoles is set to increase. A game that doesn't break the bank, yet promises a compelling story and action-focused gameplay seems right up my alley. No open world, no problem If you were expecting the next installment in the Mafia series to be a sprawling, open-world romp through the organized crime world, think again. But honestly, that's probably for the best. Screenshot by Evan Zimmer/CNET The game's visuals look great, and the action-focused combat seems compelling. If it's anything like Mafia: Definitive Edition -- which was excellent and delivered a similarly shorter, linear game with an emphasis on story and characters -- it'll be a day-one buy for me. What's Mafia: The Old Country about? This time around, Hanger 13 is turning back the clock to the 1900s. Mafia: The Old Country puts players in control of Enzo Favara as he navigates the dark underworld of Sicily. You'll join the Torrisi crime family and uncover the origins of organized crime in Hanger 13's Mafia series. The game seeks to deliver an authentic, mob-movie experience. It'll take players across crumbling Sicilian ruins and sprawling vineyards, filled with a colorful cast of unpredictable allies and rival gangs. The game's FAQ page says there'll be a mix of gunplay and stealth mechanics, along with close-quarters knife fights and races on horseback and behind the wheel. You can preorder the game now and make your oaths to the Cosa Nostra when it comes out in August.
Hindustan Times
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Mafia: The Old Country releasing on 8 August, 2025: Here's everything you need to know
The much-anticipated game, Mafia: The Old Country, has officially announced its release date and revealed a fresh gameplay trailer. Set for launch on August 8, 2025, it will be available across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S/X. Players can now pre-order the game on all supported platforms, as confirmed by 2K Games. Here's everything we know about Mafia: The Old Country. Mafia: The Old Country - A Story Set in Early 1900s Sicily Mafia: The Old Country serves as a prequel to the original Mafia game, bringing players back to the early 1900s in Sicily. The title takes a more focused approach compared to its predecessors, offering a linear experience instead of an open-world structure. Developer Hangar 13 has crafted a story that traces the roots of organised crime and the rise of the Cosa Nostra through the eyes of Enzo Favara, a young man who joins the Torrisi crime family. Also read: Apple Arcade to add UNO: Arcade edition, What the Car? and more in June game lineup In this game, players will follow Enzo's journey from an oath of loyalty to climbing the ranks of the family. Mafia: The Old Country promises a narrative-driven experience that delivers on both intense storytelling and period-accurate details, immersing players in early 20th-century Sicily. With this game, Hangar 13 aims to offer a story that is grounded, emotional, and intense. Also read: GTA 6 trailer spark speculation over potential Sony-Rockstar partnership Unlike previous titles in the Mafia franchise, The Old Country opts for a linear format rather than an open-world experience. According to the developers, this design will allow for a more focused story, with players not needing to commit vast amounts of time to enjoy the full experience. While the open world is absent, players will still explore the environment using period-specific modes of transport such as horses and vintage vehicles, as shown in the recently unveiled gameplay trailer. The trailer highlights immersive visuals and gameplay, drawing inspiration from narrative-driven games like those from Naughty Dog. Also read: Gears of War: Reloaded game set to launch across consoles and PC on August 26 Mafia: The Old Country: Pricing and Pre-order Details The game will come in two editions: Standard and Deluxe. The Standard Edition includes the base game and is priced at $49.99 (Rs. 3,799 on PlayStation Store and Rs. 2,899 on Steam). The Deluxe Edition, priced at $59.99 (Rs. 4,599 on PlayStation Store and Rs. 3,429 on Steam), offers additional content like the Padrino Pack, featuring special weapons, outfits, a limousine, and a horse. It also includes the Gatto Nero Pack, along with the game's original score and a digital artbook. First Published Date: 09 May, 16:55 IST
