![]() They feel tight and responsive, and have a satisfying swagger as they shuffle around corners. Thankfully, the vehicles are a particular treat to drive in Mafia II. It's this driving which justifies the game's open-world, as the mission design is crafted in a way that lets you see all of Empire Bay's sights. In a particularly solid release, Mafia II's soundtrack is probably its strongest element. The game excels with its song selection, placement, and even its own unique score. Mafia II's licensed music may not always be historically accurate, but it fits the mood perfectly, and that's probably the most important thing. While it sags a little in the middle and end, it does tell an interesting tale which pushes you through some of the game's more frustrating moments. Still, while wholly familiar, Mafia II does a great job of characterisation and narrative development. The entirety of its narrative plays upon the rules defined by the likes of Martin Scorsese. It all becomes a case of expectation management: if you go in to Mafia II expecting a linear game, you'll find it remarkably open - but as an open-world game, it feels notably sparse. While the world is packed with personality, there's very little to do within it. It all adds to the illusion of being a part of a living city - but it is let down by the one dimensional nature of its design. Cars break down and pull over, people slip in the snow, and arguments break out in bars. It's a startlingly well-realised world, brimming with activity that gives it a life-like vibe. Historically it might not always be entirely accurate, but if you squint it fits within the lines and it's magical.Įmpire Bay might not be the most interactive open-world game ever crafted, but it makes up for a lot in atmosphere. It's a taste of Mafia II's stunning sense of atmosphere. Further up the pathway, an arguing couple take their disagreement a step further as a piece of pottery comes flying out of the upstairs window and onto the pathway below. Two men scream at the window of two broads: "Just one drink," they insist to the girlish giggles of their conquests. As Let It Snow blasts out of the radio, we set walk down some smokey alleyways. Snow is falling in the streets of Empire Bay, and Joe informs us "it's the coldest winter in 20 years". Vito's just been released by the American army, and is returning to his family home to meet with his mother and sister. It comes about 20 minutes into the game's campaign. The very first walk through Mafia II's open-world setting, Empire Bay, is magical. ![]()
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