5 Mafia Game Series You Need to Play

First introduced in 2002, Mafia takes players to the fictional city of Lost Heaven during the 1930s. The game centers on organized crime during the Prohibition era and tells a serious story inspired by classic gangster films and real historical themes.

Instead of fast-paced action, players move through carefully designed missions. Driving plays a big role, and cars handle realistically for the time period. Gunfights are tense and punishing, making every mistake feel serious and meaningful.

Many reviewers admired the game’s atmosphere and storytelling. Its cinematic style was seen as a major strength. Still, some criticism focused on the slow pace and high difficulty, which could feel frustrating for new or casual players.

Set between the 1940s and 1950s, Mafia II moves the series into a new era. Players explore Empire Bay, a city inspired by American urban life after World War II. The story follows a man drawn into crime while searching for money and stability.

Combat and driving feel smoother than in the first game. Missions are more polished, and the shooting mechanics are easier to control. While the city looks alive, most activities are tied closely to the main story rather than free exploration.

Critics responded positively to the emotional narrative, characters, and soundtrack. The game felt like a crime movie come to life. However, some reviews mentioned the lack of side missions and felt the experience was too limited outside story missions.

Mafia III takes a bold step forward by moving into the late 1960s. Set in New Bordeaux, a city inspired by New Orleans, the game explores themes of revenge, power, and social tension through the eyes of a returning war veteran.

For the first time in the series, players are given a large open world to control. Taking over territories, choosing different approaches to combat, and managing allies are key parts of progression. Stealth and action both play important roles.

The story and soundtrack received strong praise, especially for their mature themes. Still, many critics pointed out repetitive mission structures and technical problems.

Released as a modern remake of the first game, Mafia: Definitive Edition revisits the original story with improved visuals and expanded scenes. The game retells the rise of a taxi driver within the criminal world, adding more emotional depth to familiar characters.

While keeping the original mission structure, the remake improves shooting, driving, and overall control. The city of Lost Heaven feels more detailed and alive, though the game still emphasizes linear storytelling over open-world freedom.

Most critics welcomed the visual upgrade and faithful retelling of the story. Fans of the original appreciated the respect shown to the source material. Some criticism remained around dated mission design and limited gameplay variety.

This entry takes the series back in time to early 1900s Sicily. Mafia: The Old Country explores the roots of organized crime before the events of the main series. A new protagonist allows the story to focus on tradition, loyalty, and survival.

Rather than offering a large open world, the game follows a more guided structure. Missions highlight close combat, stealth, and strong narrative moments. The slower pace helps players absorb the historical setting and emotional conflicts.

Reviewers praised the setting, writing, and overall atmosphere. The game was often described as immersive and serious. On the downside, some critics felt the gameplay lacked variety and that certain mechanics felt old-fashioned.