The fans of the Mafia games might soon be in for a treat. According to a report, Hanger 13, the developer of Mafia 3 and Mafia: Definitive Edition, is creating the latest installment in the franchise.
About the new Mafia game
Unlike the previous games, the new Mafia game will not be a sequel but a prequel to the entire Mafia trilogy. The first Mafia game was set in the 1930s during the final years of Prohibition. If the report is accurate, we should expect a game set in the 1910s or 20s.
While not much is known about the game, we know a couple of things. It is in early development under the codename Nero. The title is expected to use Unreal Engine 5 compared to previous titles that used proprietary engines.
About the Franchise
The Mafia franchise has been relatively warm these last few years. The latest original game in the franchise was Mafia 3, released back in 2016. It received a lukewarm reception from both fans and critics. Many criticized its repetitive and non-innovative mission structure. The game also suffered from numerous technical issues. However, its story, characters, and performance received much praise. The game was re-released with all its DLCs in 2020.
As mentioned above, Hanger 13 also developed Mafia: Definitive Edition. It was a complete remake of the first Mafia game released in 2002. The game was built from the ground up, with its story also expanded. The game received a positive reception, yet its simple combat and open world were criticized. The remake was bundled with a remaster of Mafia 2 and a re-release of Mafia 3.
Departures of Studio Head
Hanger 13 might be developing a new game, but that doesn’t mean all is good. The studio head, Haden Blackman, is leaving the company after seven long years, and the studio’s COO, Matthew Urban, has already left. The company is now being led by Nick Baynes, the studio head of the Brighton, UK office.
So what do you think? Are you excited about the upcoming Mafia game? Do you think a prequel to the franchise is a good choice for a new Mafia game? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
