Mafia II

 PC
User Score
8.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2462 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,897 out of 2462
  2. Mixed: 447 out of 2462
  3. Negative: 118 out of 2462
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  1. Honkeymagoo
    Aug 25, 2010
    10
    The game's plot like is basically a mixture of the Godfather, and Goodfellas, you're a war hero, come back from the war and fall into a life of crime with your friend. The open world nature of this game is not the same as GTA, which to me is a good thing, there aren't a million half-assed mini-games to play. Each section of the city feels different, China-town feels different than LittleThe game's plot like is basically a mixture of the Godfather, and Goodfellas, you're a war hero, come back from the war and fall into a life of crime with your friend. The open world nature of this game is not the same as GTA, which to me is a good thing, there aren't a million half-assed mini-games to play. Each section of the city feels different, China-town feels different than Little Italy. I'm not going to list any spoilers but I do feel like this plot is decent, the voice acting is pretty good for the most part, the in-car conversations are pretty humorous a lot of the time. The driving is a HUGE improvement over the first game, the cars feel like real cars would from the 40s that is spongey suspension and sluggish acceleration, this is not bad design, it's how the actual cars behaved back then. The map is actually displayed in the radar instead of the lame "map" that's in the first game.

    The guns are all fun, though the pistols pretty much all seem the same power, even the magnum (and the magnum sound a little goofy, like a cartoon gun). There is an actual cover system in the game, and overall the fights are much improved over the first game. This is a great game, it's heavy on graphics card, so I recommend looking into mods on how to disable the physics of the clothing in the game.

    Overall I've really enjoyed this game and don't understand why people are criticizing it for NOT being just a GTA clone, it's a game I honestly find more fun than GTA.    … Expand
  2. Fire4FX
    Aug 27, 2010
    4
    Short. Played conservatively it only took a total of 8 hours to beat. And after that, there's just nothing to do. And I mean nothing as in the game ends. No free roaming the city. No conquering of territory. No wooing young ladies. Nothing. Just the "thanks for playing credits". What a let down. I was looking forward to this one. Sadly, I'll have to pass on their next game release becauseShort. Played conservatively it only took a total of 8 hours to beat. And after that, there's just nothing to do. And I mean nothing as in the game ends. No free roaming the city. No conquering of territory. No wooing young ladies. Nothing. Just the "thanks for playing credits". What a let down. I was looking forward to this one. Sadly, I'll have to pass on their next game release because now I feel sort of robbed.

    On a side note, the graphics are nice and the gameplay mechanics are decent. I just wish there were more to it. I paid $50 but I think the game is only worth about $30 (and that's being generous).    … Expand
  3. Don_Stronzo
    Jan 2, 2011
    10
    This is a great game! Forget those Reviews who say its strictly linear. Yes, it is. There`s a lot of story in it, its like playing a Movie. You can`t compare it to GTA IV, it`s like compairing S.T.A.L.K.E.R and Modern Warfare.
    Modern Warfare is also Strictly linear...and not a Bad Game at all....
    Mafia II is Superb, Great graphics, cool Missiondesign and the Developers put in all their    This is a great game! Forget those Reviews who say its strictly linear. Yes, it is. There`s a lot of story in it, its like playing a Movie. You can`t compare it to GTA IV, it`s like compairing S.T.A.L.K.E.R and Modern Warfare.
    Modern Warfare is also Strictly linear...and not a Bad Game at all....
    Mafia II is Superb, Great graphics, cool Missiondesign and the Developers put in all their heart.
    Maybe it`s not "A perfect Game", but which Game is? If you look for a fast paced 3rd person action Game i would recommend something else (Just cause 2...etc)    … Expand
  4. bunda
    Jan 3, 2011
    10
    excellent game, excellent story, nice graphic and sounds, good music, great characters, every mission is original and not boring like some GTA IV missions, you can download free ride mod, ....
    EXCELLENT !
  5. Mushe
    Jul 12, 2012
    8
    Mafia 2 has always been marked to resemble the GTA IV, and really not right. It is a much more linear, with an atmosphere and graphics much more care than GTA IV, a very interesting story (and more so for the players of the first Mafia) and very good gameplay, but with the drawback of that these very limited in your environment, for example can not you jump or swim. The length is quiteMafia 2 has always been marked to resemble the GTA IV, and really not right. It is a much more linear, with an atmosphere and graphics much more care than GTA IV, a very interesting story (and more so for the players of the first Mafia) and very good gameplay, but with the drawback of that these very limited in your environment, for example can not you jump or swim. The length is quite important, and with a few perks and achievements. The DLC demases objects and are not as necessary or flashy, just the game that bring history to recommend. Other glues may be that once the campaign no replay value and you can keep on keeping on, that unlike the GTA franchise tenes still free to roam the city and a multiplayer. But the duration of the price offered is quite respectable.… Expand
  6. Rixcs
    Mar 21, 2012
    8
    Everything Is Amazing And Really amazing Story in the game but the bad thing is the game ends really early a really short game and if you try to make mafia III please make the game more longer!
  7. Devent123
    Jul 18, 2012
    10
    A perfect Story Game ? whats up 7.1 ? this game need a 9.7 ! ! ! !

    German: einer der besten Mafia spiele, was ich je spielte. underbare Grafik mitfühlende Story.
    Die Atmosphäre alles wunderbar. Bei steam eine 77 gamescore ? unverständlich, das kann nur eine ursache haben :
    GTA Cheater kinder waren am werke, und haben das spiel nicht geschnallt !
  8. Jacobs
    Jan 14, 2013
    10
    This is really good game, very interesting story, and wonderful gaming world. You may love it, if you buy it. Developers of this game deserve big congratulations, great work. This game starts a new era of PC games. Try it and you´ll see.
  9. el666
    May 20, 2020
    10
    immortal classic
    just a masterpiece
    "Sorry,kid.
    Mafia III wasn't part of our deal..."
  10. MiCrOsPeeD
    Sep 8, 2010
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Wirklich gutes gelungenes Action Game mit guter Grafik und Sound. Leider nicht vergleichbar mit GTA da es keine gründe zum erkunden der Stadt gibt oder beschäftigungs Möglichkeiten. Aber über die gesamte Spielzeit gut inszenierte Action mit Film reifer Geschichte.
    Grüà    … Expand
  11. parakadista
    Sep 7, 2010
    9
    the strength of this game comes from its storyline! well thought and very enjoyable. The build up to each scene and chapter really get the player itchin to get in there and scene what happens next. Easter eggs too!
  12. rmccle
    Oct 13, 2010
    9
    I loved this game. The feeling of being immersed in the 40s and 50s is just amazing due to the truly deep attention to detail. This is not Grand Theft Auto, nor was it intended to be. It is a tight story driven game with fun gameplay set in an open and detailed world. Weapons are fun and rewardingly destructive. The real treat though is the art, which really brings the era alive.
  13. segorogeni
    Sep 12, 2010
    10
    the end of a trip, while playing mafia war2 , thanks to the trainers
    of cheatncode.com,before I became dizzy I found this trainer i will shared the link http://cheatncode.com/pc/mafia-ii-v1-0-0-11-trainer-11-pc-games
  14. MeenChawitTH
    Oct 1, 2010
    8
    The remaining of this game is still actually great, if you just don't think about how much content have been cut, This game could have been great competitor to GTA series if they didn't chop it off this much, I blame 2k for every single point of the negative impact on the final product. if they care about us not money they would have retained option for alternate ending it would have addedThe remaining of this game is still actually great, if you just don't think about how much content have been cut, This game could have been great competitor to GTA series if they didn't chop it off this much, I blame 2k for every single point of the negative impact on the final product. if they care about us not money they would have retained option for alternate ending it would have added massive replay-ability. , Jimmy also ruined the game, he shouldn't have existed, ending is definitely not the "best one" like they said, but think about it....ending is perfectly sounded and doesn't deserves a whines it's getting. other than that city, graphic, characters, cut-scene, level design, driving, soundtracks is some thing "stunning"… Expand
  15. marqpas
    Oct 3, 2010
    9
    The game itself is quite limited. Driving, shooting/ boxing, that's about it; hardly any replay value. The storyline is never far away from the clichees we all know. Still, the game experience, continuity, and museum-like atmosphere are among the best in the game industry. I loved the hours I spent with Mafia 2.
  16. yellowchilli
    Nov 8, 2010
    8
    As solid as it is, it could have been so much more. The developers mustve held back for their DLCs, and the sequel even.
    Nevertheless it was very enjoyable.

    And more car chase sequences please.
  17. Vauhn
    Jan 1, 2011
    9
    This game is simply amazing. They put lots of effort into writing the story it seems and the gameplay is just as amazing... I took my time to beat it instead of rushing through it so I spent about 30 or so hours on it....So what if there is nothing to do after, thats how games were in the past...A game this amazing doesnt need a multiplayer. All multiplayer does is make all the work theyThis game is simply amazing. They put lots of effort into writing the story it seems and the gameplay is just as amazing... I took my time to beat it instead of rushing through it so I spent about 30 or so hours on it....So what if there is nothing to do after, thats how games were in the past...A game this amazing doesnt need a multiplayer. All multiplayer does is make all the work they put into the game pointless because of how many people dont like singleplayer..... And there is a multiplayer mod being made. This game is like playing a movie its almost entirely story based, but that doesnt take away from the thrill of the gunfights and just being able to drive the city. If you dont want to do the mission then just dont follow the marker, it will be just like a GTA free roam, with more strict cops. Which brings me to the cops. They will arrest you for almost anything....Wreckless driving, speeding, hit and run etc. and its not like on GTA where you can outrun them no problem....You have to outrun them which is usually done by tricking them to crash into a wall. They will remember you by either your car, license plate, or clothing, all of which can be changed. If they see you, you will have a few seconds to get out of there sight before they go after you. This is a must have if you like games with great stories and can overcome the fact that it has no multiplayer, which I did and that doesnt affect my opinion about it at all. My only complaint is i got a large amount of lag in small portions throughout the game so some lesser computers might not be able to run it. Mine is pretty good but i could use a better graphics card. Overall amazing game, I hope to see a Mafia 2!… Expand
  18. Rongxin
    Mar 24, 2011
    10
    As someone who acknowledges that quality will forever triumph over quantity, I really appreciate it when a game developer employs the same attitude while designing video games. For that, I highly recommend you get yourself a copy of Mafia 2 as soon as possible. Set in the fictional city of Empire Bay, you're Vito Scalett, an Italian war-veteran trying to make a name for himself along withAs someone who acknowledges that quality will forever triumph over quantity, I really appreciate it when a game developer employs the same attitude while designing video games. For that, I highly recommend you get yourself a copy of Mafia 2 as soon as possible. Set in the fictional city of Empire Bay, you're Vito Scalett, an Italian war-veteran trying to make a name for himself along with his childhood friend, Joe. Together, you explore the ins and outs of the Mafia.

    I personally haven't seen any of the Godfather films. I know what you're thinking, blasphemous, right? Just never got around to see them but I know it's a good trilogy so cut me a break! The closest thing I've exposure to organized crime is Martin Scorsese's The Departed. Eh, wasn't that film about the Mob? I assume the Mafia and the Mob are totally different? Whatever the case may be, Mafia 2 has got me engaged into the story so far. Captivating even, if I may add. I just purchased a copy yesterday so I'm far from completion. Roughly about 25% into the game. Expressing how much I'm loving every bit of it will be an understatement. If you're familiar with the Grand Theft Auto franchise (who the hell isn't?), Mafia 2 will come to you relatively easy. The basic mechanics are present. The entire city is sandbox so you can free-roam as and where you like, food & beverage/clothing stores to add a hint of role-playing elements, customize the cars you stole at the various garages in the city. Just to name a few.

    If you would have me describe Empire City to you in one word, stunning comes to mind. The 1940's esque is astonishingly detailed to a point where it actually feels true-to-life. Even the fashion and the various vehicles have obviously been spared no expense. The game takes place over a span of years so you can basically see the city change. From the snowy, gloom that winter brings to a city to the lush, vibrant effects of spring. To simply put it, the atmosphere the game brings is no more than fantastic. I will always like to declare that Mafia 2 is very much optimized for the PC. It's not what some of us call a "console port" where graphical hiccups causes a hit in framerate or frustrating controls. The gun fights are pretty nifty too. There's a cover system in which you will use most extensively. There aren't many assortment of weapons in the game. Probably at most five? I can't remember. But trust me, that's the most a game like this will ever need.

    Of course when you're doing all the nasty criminal work, you've to be wary of the law. The police will come after you for grand theft auto, running around with a firearm and even hit-and-run. There's a wanted system where you'll need to change your clothes or vehicle to elude capture. If you do get caught, you can bribe them and they'll look the other way. Depends on what your wanted level is though. Too high and they'll shoot on sight. If it's low enough, you'll get away with a fine. Also, I'm having difficulty naming another game that allows you to collect vintage Playboy magazines. I've collected one at the moment so I'm no Hugh Hefner. I guess going around the city hunting for pictures of bare-naked women can be seen as an incentive for some people.

    Just not me.    … Expand
  19. samatt
    Jan 4, 2011
    10
    This game is amazing, how many hours did they put into this? I guess the gameplay could be knocked a little, but on the whole it's fun and pretty tight. The graphics are where it's at, just mindblowing. Often found myself crashing into stuff, due to looking off at the scenery, good stuff.
  20. Tomwelcome
    Mar 25, 2011
    10
    Gameplay - 75 , Graphics - 85 , Story - 90 , Playing time - 15~20 hours. If you like games with good story, this is for you. However, the ending is a bit disappointing.
  21. gmboy902
    Apr 5, 2011
    9
    This game cuts no corners in immersing you. Everything about the city - the music, the advertisements, the cars, and more - are all historically precise. The voice acting is incredible, the storyline is addicting, and the music combines familiar themes with a new modern twist to make this game play more like a Godfather movie than a simple third-person shooter. You will fall in love withThis game cuts no corners in immersing you. Everything about the city - the music, the advertisements, the cars, and more - are all historically precise. The voice acting is incredible, the storyline is addicting, and the music combines familiar themes with a new modern twist to make this game play more like a Godfather movie than a simple third-person shooter. You will fall in love with the characters from the moment you meet them. Almost every aspect of this game makes you feel like a true 50s mobster.
    That being said, there are some downsides to it. The combat is somewhat exciting, but it could use a little work - not to mention there could be more of it, and earlier on as well. The game boasts less than 10 hours of gameplay, a good chunk of which is spent doing mundane tasks like driving to your house or to a bar on the other side of the city. The story itself, thrilling as it is, has a letdown of an ending that makes you feel that the game can't possibly be done. The DLC for the game consists mostly of clothes and cars, which aren't very useful as there is practically nothing to do in free roam mode. Of course, there are a couple of campaigns out to extend the value of the game - if you can dish another 20 bucks out.
    All in all, it's got a great storyline, an AMAZING musical score, great characters and voiceacting, and great gameplay. On the flip side, it's short, incomplete, and there's really not much to do outside of the campaign. Any fan of the iconic 50's mafia should give this game a shot. Worth 30 bucks on Steam? I'd say, unless you're starving for cash. Of course, if you're lucky like me, you'll catch it on sale for 10 bucks.

    Oh and one more note: There is a glitch on one of the chapters that may cause you to become stuck and have to replay a significant chunk of the game to (possibly) fix it. Hopefully they'll patch it soon.    … Expand
  22. HasselHoff
    May 6, 2011
    10
    I loved this game. The story alone is awesome. Not sure what people are expecting but if you want to be submersed in a different time period and really get a sense of what it is like, this is the game for you. If you don't want to be annoyed by repetitive non story oriented missions, this is the game for you. I love gaming and and can't really short the game because of the length asI loved this game. The story alone is awesome. Not sure what people are expecting but if you want to be submersed in a different time period and really get a sense of what it is like, this is the game for you. If you don't want to be annoyed by repetitive non story oriented missions, this is the game for you. I love gaming and and can't really short the game because of the length as others have. I am a casual gamer and it took me 18 hours to finish. It was like a good book I didn't want to end. Some peeps compare it to GTA... GTA meh.. still haven't finished that game.. painful... Anyways I hope there is a part 3 !

    L8r,
    HF    … Expand
  23. REDSIPERAS
    Aug 30, 2011
    10
    Best story out of any game! nuff said
  24. bollegru
    Dec 29, 2011
    9
    First up, I'd like to inform you that I am passionate about Mafia II. I like games with a story that makes me care about the characters involved and has me guessing what happens next, and Mafia II does that for me. Secondly, it looks surprisingly good on the highest graphical settings. Quite impressive. Thirdly.. Well.. I just want you to play it and fall in love with it. 2k Czech did aFirst up, I'd like to inform you that I am passionate about Mafia II. I like games with a story that makes me care about the characters involved and has me guessing what happens next, and Mafia II does that for me. Secondly, it looks surprisingly good on the highest graphical settings. Quite impressive. Thirdly.. Well.. I just want you to play it and fall in love with it. 2k Czech did a great job, and Mafia II feels like a labor of love.… Expand
  25. RobiePax
    Jan 8, 2012
    10
    The atmosphere, the storyline... Mafia 2 is truly the game that will bring your mind back to the 40s and leave positive memories.

    If you are into "criminal activities" and some shooting. Mafia 2 is a game for you.
  26. zarg556
    Mar 11, 2012
    10
    Mafia II is an action packed, thriller of a game. It has all the necessary twists and turns as a game in this genre should, it has a cool storyline which people should not compare to GTA as it is a different sort of game in it's own way. I is impossible to see why Mafia II got a lower Metascore than Mafia I as in my opinion, it is such an improvement. Mafia II blows any game of it's sortMafia II is an action packed, thriller of a game. It has all the necessary twists and turns as a game in this genre should, it has a cool storyline which people should not compare to GTA as it is a different sort of game in it's own way. I is impossible to see why Mafia II got a lower Metascore than Mafia I as in my opinion, it is such an improvement. Mafia II blows any game of it's sort out of the water, and is a must buy for any PC PS3 or XBox 360 gamer.… Expand
  27. lyaa888999
    Dec 4, 2012
    8
    A game with connotation contents always makes me feel good.The designs of it is excellent but it have some defects such as no freedom in the huge city,the waste of time on driving again and again,except that it can be a 10 score one.
  28. XenonGTX
    Sep 9, 2014
    10
    Instantly fell in love with it. Just everything about it. Story- one of the best. One exceptional thing about the series is the responsiveness and smoothness.
  29. crazyrussian65
    Nov 28, 2015
    9
    Oh wow. I was blown away with how badass this game is. I would have given it a ten if it only lasted longer... Nonetheless worth getting. The graphics are amazing for its time, the story is the best story I have ever experienced. It is gripping and takes turns and draws you in. The city has a perfect vibe, and there are some wonderful vintage guns and cars to go along. I understand thisOh wow. I was blown away with how badass this game is. I would have given it a ten if it only lasted longer... Nonetheless worth getting. The graphics are amazing for its time, the story is the best story I have ever experienced. It is gripping and takes turns and draws you in. The city has a perfect vibe, and there are some wonderful vintage guns and cars to go along. I understand this game isn't for everybody, but if you like a good story get this game.… Expand
  30. Tilt1k
    Jan 30, 2019
    8
    Its hard to make sequel to such a good game like Mafia. And i would say the devs did a great job. Vito Scalleta is not so memorable as Tommy Angelo. Still the story is decent and it drags you in the game fo a few hours.

    Gameplay got much better. Driving cars and shooting are on whole different level and i like the cover system a lot. The biggest disappointment for me is variety of    Its hard to make sequel to such a good game like Mafia. And i would say the devs did a great job. Vito Scalleta is not so memorable as Tommy Angelo. Still the story is decent and it drags you in the game fo a few hours.

    Gameplay got much better. Driving cars and shooting are on whole different level and i like the cover system a lot.

    The biggest disappointment for me is variety of missions and game time. Both much better in original Mafia.

    Still a great game 100% recommend to play it once. It has some great moments.    … Expand
  31. Lamur
    Apr 25, 2020
    10
    Мафия 2-потрясающие продолжение серии. Игра дарит уникальный экспириенс, перенося тебя в эту эпоху мафии.
  32. Eternal
    Mar 29, 2011
    10
    Mafia 2 is solid gangster game with excelent graphic and animation. Personally i like it more than first mafia. If you play all the DLCs, the game gets even better.
  33. wasabi250603
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    Этот шедевр вошел в список моих любимых игр. Графика и детализация для 2010 года феноменальная, атмосфера 1950-60х годов передана великолепно + шикарные запоминающиеся саундтреки и загадочный сюжет с крайне неожиданной концовкой. Все это заставляет меня перепроходить и вспоминать эту игру и по сей день. 10Этот шедевр вошел в список моих любимых игр. Графика и детализация для 2010 года феноменальная, атмосфера 1950-60х годов передана великолепно + шикарные запоминающиеся саундтреки и загадочный сюжет с крайне неожиданной концовкой. Все это заставляет меня перепроходить и вспоминать эту игру и по сей день. 10
  34. Gta56
    Dec 10, 2019
    10
    Мне игра очень понравилась я только добрался до 4 главы но судет интересный
  35. Henker
    Apr 20, 2020
    10
    The game has an excellent story, in addition to the cars and great classic blues music of the 50s. Although there are no side missions, graphics are outdated and the direction of the vehicles is a little difficult, it is worth the purchase. It's like an interactive movie and a mix of GTA and LA Noire.
  36. SurujSingha
    May 14, 2020
    9
    Many are complaining about how linear the game was. For me, i felt glad that they took the linear route. You cant craft a good narrative driven story without making it linear. This isnt a RPG. The narrative was brilliant except some minor issues during certain sections. Mafia 1 did had a slightly better story but Mafia 2 has far more detailed environments. If you liked Mafia 1, mostMany are complaining about how linear the game was. For me, i felt glad that they took the linear route. You cant craft a good narrative driven story without making it linear. This isnt a RPG. The narrative was brilliant except some minor issues during certain sections. Mafia 1 did had a slightly better story but Mafia 2 has far more detailed environments. If you liked Mafia 1, most probably you would like Mafia 2.… Expand
  37. Halil007212
    Nov 5, 2020
    10
    So good i love this game and Really Really good game you just play and Only 15 chapter
  38. GODvaria
    Feb 1, 2021
    9
    Поздно протестил,нереально тащилово для своего жанра ( почти как Крестный Отец),сюжет лютый,геймплей на уровне.Вот это и есть настоящая Мафия.
  39. hoffmano
    Jun 25, 2021
    10
    That was one of best games that I ever played

    Is based on history, very involving mafia history, like a movie
  40. MunhozMCM
    Oct 20, 2021
    8
    TL;DR Review
    -------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Final Score - ( 8.5 ) Very Good In-Depth Review (Spoiler Free) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Visuals - 8/10 - (Very Good) Visually Mafia 2 sometimes can be stunning for a 10-year-old game, Vito's face model is great to this day and everything is    TL;DR Review
    -------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Final Score - ( 8.5 ) Very Good

    In-Depth Review (Spoiler Free)
    -------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Visuals - 8/10 - (Very Good)
    Visually Mafia 2 sometimes can be stunning for a 10-year-old game, Vito's face model is great to this day and everything is really good looking from far away. As with many of the PS3/Xbox 360 era games the real issue lies in the more detailed textures, face textures, and some models often look ugly, but it can easily be overlooked. Mafia 2 holds up very well to this very day.

    Gameplay - 9/10 - (Great)
    The game is a soft sandbox, the city is open but there's not much you can do besides driving around, the city carries a lovely ambiance and is very well constructed, it always feels lively. Gunplay is amazing, you have to get used to some of the high recoils, but overall, really fun and engaging. My main criticism would be the driving, even though it makes the cars feel like antiques, in missions where driving is essential, it is a little annoying since most cars feel really heavy and slow.

    Story - 6/10 - (Fine)
    Many people say that Mafia 2's story is amazing, don't get me wrong, it is pretty good, but a little on the underdeveloped side, especially the ending. The real stars of the game are the characters, everyone you meet is important and interesting, there are hardly any forgettable characters, and interacting with each one of them is great.    … Expand
  41. Ophie
    Aug 28, 2010
    8
    I have been waiting for this game to happen for years now. And when it finally comes out, it falls short of the first game. Admittedly I thoroughly enjoyed the first half of the game, but I started to notice a sense of repetition in the gameplay. It had it's ups and downs, but I at least expected a better ending; It didn't do justice to the predecessor's finale. I felt cheated that theI have been waiting for this game to happen for years now. And when it finally comes out, it falls short of the first game. Admittedly I thoroughly enjoyed the first half of the game, but I started to notice a sense of repetition in the gameplay. It had it's ups and downs, but I at least expected a better ending; It didn't do justice to the predecessor's finale. I felt cheated that the game was so short (finished it under 10 hours). To summarize, I really expected more from the game, but overall what I got was something above mediocre with some good bits here and there.… Expand
  42. JohnnyOnTheShot
    Nov 24, 2012
    6
    This game was either rushed through production or the money to produce it ran out... because the game is phenominal at first but way, way, way too short. It seems like they put every mission as far away from the others as possible so you spend more time driving than playing the game, but the story line is solid and give a wonderful cinematic feel. It's really too bad that the game is tooThis game was either rushed through production or the money to produce it ran out... because the game is phenominal at first but way, way, way too short. It seems like they put every mission as far away from the others as possible so you spend more time driving than playing the game, but the story line is solid and give a wonderful cinematic feel. It's really too bad that the game is too short. The DLC does not really fix this problem as Jimmy's vendetta lacks all of the cinematic cut-scenes that made the main game good and Joe's Adventure starts off right, with the great cinematic storyline, but sputters out too soon... just like the main game.… Expand
  43. AWG
    Aug 11, 2013
    7
    Mafia II has great things in it: a stunning set of renderings, an interesting story, well-built characters, funny lines, nice guns and cars, awesome musics... This game would easily be a solid 9 if it wasn't for its big design flaws. What's the point of a dodge system like this? Why the open world if there's no side quests? What's with ALL that driving around? Why does the Police chase meMafia II has great things in it: a stunning set of renderings, an interesting story, well-built characters, funny lines, nice guns and cars, awesome musics... This game would easily be a solid 9 if it wasn't for its big design flaws. What's the point of a dodge system like this? Why the open world if there's no side quests? What's with ALL that driving around? Why does the Police chase me for miles if I slightly touch another car but totally ignores the fact that I'm driving full-speed, wrong-way on the highway?
    I loved this game, but I also hated this game.    … Expand
  44. mrkartofel1
    Dec 10, 2012
    9
    One of the best open world game I've ever played! The plot is great, characters are not flat, have, each are other, graphic is still good and one of the biggest advantage of this game: soundtrack and climate! I love to play Mafia for these things. Sometimes I launch the game only for drive any car and listen to radio!
  45. TheGameCritic
    Jan 3, 2011
    9
    Do not listen to those who doesn't know what they want from life. I have played tons of games in my life and I can assure you Mafia II is one of the best games I have ever played. It is not the classic "Go shoot someone" without a reason (A.K.A GTA IV). Everything you do has that "1930 gangster" feeling. You aren't the baddest **** in Earth but you are definitely close to achieve that.Do not listen to those who doesn't know what they want from life. I have played tons of games in my life and I can assure you Mafia II is one of the best games I have ever played. It is not the classic "Go shoot someone" without a reason (A.K.A GTA IV). Everything you do has that "1930 gangster" feeling. You aren't the baddest **** in Earth but you are definitely close to achieve that.

    The graphics are really good, not the best in the market nowadays but it's amazing anyway.

    The shooting system is pretty awesome. Bullets do hurt you pretty badly. If someone shoot you in the back, you are dead. Firing a Tommy Gun was never as fun as in this game. The best thing you can do to prove this is to rob a store (in a really real way), and destroy everything in the famous 1930's machine gun.

    The fighting system is... well, seriously awful. It's SO lame that even a 2 years old baby can beat the strongest enemy. You just have to cover and hit while the enemy is tired.

    The driving system is quite standard. Nothing new in this, but I still like it. It adds the "realism" driving mode, but it's pretty lame anyway. if you liked GTA IV driving system you'll surely like this one.

    The story is more than awesome. It was like a movie (a really good one). Good characters, in a really dark world where anyone is what they seem to be. Uncovered cops, dirty and sadistic bosses and even the chinese mafia.

    In the other hand, characters are a solid 10. You even feel what they feel and actually suffer with them. From Joe to Henry or Luca, everyone is unique and can't be better in anyway.

    Some bad points: No side missions. This is the biggest mistake imo. 2K screwed it up with this one.

    The cops are pretty stupid. Their AI is more than awful.

    There is no complete nudity. Come on, guys. We are mature enough to see some **** some of us even have family. This is becoming seriously lame!


    If you like intense shootings, to torn apart everything (from concrete walls to cars), to kick the **** out of the bad ones (Because they suffer when their time comes. A lot.) or even walk calmly in the huge city, this is the game for you.    … Expand
  46. MysteriousRage
    Jul 29, 2013
    7
    A well written story with well written characters with some memorable moments and a fantastic set location that suffers from
    A.) Linearity- In this massive open world of 40s-50s New York, all you do is relatively linear missions.
    B.) Repetitive missions- Generally it consists of you going to Point A, get a cutscene, go to Point B, do some cover based shooting, go home and go to bed and    A well written story with well written characters with some memorable moments and a fantastic set location that suffers from
    A.) Linearity- In this massive open world of 40s-50s New York, all you do is relatively linear missions.
    B.) Repetitive missions- Generally it consists of you going to Point A, get a cutscene, go to Point B, do some cover based shooting, go home and go to bed and wake up and start it all over.
    C.) Nothing to do- With a world like this, there's nothing more to do beyond the campaign. Unless you want to deliberately dick around.

    Still for what's it's worth, it has a great story too it (if you want to put up with the large amount of cutscenes) with a some good characters (including a likable protagonist) and a couple of memorable set pieces/ missions and of course 40s-50s NY always looks good.    … Expand
  47. WillKill
    Dec 2, 2010
    7
    BETTER THAN GTA! I really love the whole Mafia idea. This game steals all the cliche you can imagine from The Godfather, but that's what I would really like anyways. It plays surprisingly linear for an open world game, but the story is fantastic. There are many surprises and jaw dropping moments. Not to mention the cars are loads of fun to drive. The DLCs (I have them all) are great also.BETTER THAN GTA! I really love the whole Mafia idea. This game steals all the cliche you can imagine from The Godfather, but that's what I would really like anyways. It plays surprisingly linear for an open world game, but the story is fantastic. There are many surprises and jaw dropping moments. Not to mention the cars are loads of fun to drive. The DLCs (I have them all) are great also. "Jimmy's Vendetta" is, well, crap- but it lets you roam free world and collect cars. I highly recommend this game to anyone of mature age.… Expand
  48. Daemonius
    Sep 4, 2010
    10
    I just love this game, the graphics are awesome. The theme is awesome. I just love the music that is played on the car radio. This 40's - 50's wiseguy thing is the best. I just wish people would still dress like they do on this game. There was no glitches for me, maybe because my game is a LEGAL VERSION. I love the way that they have made this game. The first time you play, you just runI just love this game, the graphics are awesome. The theme is awesome. I just love the music that is played on the car radio. This 40's - 50's wiseguy thing is the best. I just wish people would still dress like they do on this game. There was no glitches for me, maybe because my game is a LEGAL VERSION. I love the way that they have made this game. The first time you play, you just run through the missions. Next time you look for the hidden bonus stuff. Good thing is that they have real music from the era of this game, too bad they didn't license the car names. This should not be compared to GTA. If you want GTA, don't play this game. If you love trench coats and american-italian accents, you'll love this game.… Expand
  49. kentMOsabe
    Apr 14, 2011
    10
    First of all I would like to say that I played the whole thing from start to finish (so this is not an uninformed review). Second of all I would like to mention that I never got a chance to play the first one, still haven't played it and probably will not play it (so my review is based only on Mafia II). Ok, so I will begin by commenting on the story, it is great. If it was a movie, itFirst of all I would like to say that I played the whole thing from start to finish (so this is not an uninformed review). Second of all I would like to mention that I never got a chance to play the first one, still haven't played it and probably will not play it (so my review is based only on Mafia II). Ok, so I will begin by commenting on the story, it is great. If it was a movie, it would have probably fared well, you know with all those gun fights and Mafia meetings and going to prison and such. It is not so much a sandbox game, it is more of a shooter game, I know because when I played, all of the difficulty of the game rests on the gunfights and covering system, and even some stealth. The "sandbox" aspect of the game is where you have to drive to every objective, they are long drives, and sometimes when you miss an exit, you have to circle all the way back again and drive for another 2-3minutes, you can buy clothes and guns, and that's about it, oh and take care not to speed or else the cops will be at your tail fast. Also there are plenty of fist fights, where you push the right buttons and you win. The graphics though are really novel and crisp. Even at low res, this game looks amazing and sharp and performs extremely well. This is in fact your standard third person shooter, and if your good at shooters, than this game is for you. As far as "freedom" and "sandbox" go, there is not very much to it, I might compare it to Just Cause 2 without all the optional side missions. Anyway story is good, gun and fist fights are good, just needed a little bit more development in the "sandbox" aspect of it.… Expand
  50. Metalhead11
    Oct 28, 2010
    7
    I think that the story is really good, The Mafia games have the best stories I've every played. Mafia 2 is an excellent game with fun missions, but it's really short and there's really nothing to do when you're done with the game. It's an incredibly good game with amazing graphics and fun missions, but the story is short and there isn't any end-play.
  51. hicj
    Apr 19, 2012
    10
    this game is as close you can get in the mob without joining in real
    life.and the dlcs like joe adventure
    and others thegame is great GET MAFIA 2 TODAY
  52. jangers
    Dec 20, 2013
    7
    Fantastic climate of USA 40 and 50 years, interesting characters, great visual binding, great developed storyline but very linear. Driving, shooting & cover model was well made but melee fight was poorly done. The game is nice, but the game does not offer such freedom.
  53. arakosta
    Apr 10, 2013
    10
    I had big expectations when I bought this game.And now, after I finished it I can say it was worth every single penny I spent on it.The only bad part about this game was that it finished too fast.But if you haven't played it yet, go on and buy it!
  54. Aker
    Jul 15, 2013
    8
    Great gameplay, great story, great music, great environment, great vehicles, the only thing it lacked was things to do in the free roam world. There's hardly any interaction with non-story related characters, meaning there are no side missions. But with that being said I still easily put 20 hours of play time into the game, it's well worth the money.
  55. csabber
    May 11, 2014
    7
    Mafia II brings a great city and gorgeous graphics, but sadly the lack of content and other serious flaws don’t allow the game to live up to the expectations and for that matter to its prequel.

    MORE ON: http://prosncons.22web.org/ + Mafia II is one of the best looking games that was released in the year 2010. Characters and facial impressions are especially great, but the design of    Mafia II brings a great city and gorgeous graphics, but sadly the lack of content and other serious flaws don’t allow the game to live up to the expectations and for that matter to its prequel.

    MORE ON: http://prosncons.22web.org/

    + Mafia II is one of the best looking games that was released in the year 2010. Characters and facial impressions are especially great, but the design of Empire Bay and all the little details like cars or clothes are all authentic.
    + When it comes to open world games it’s always a breath of fresh air when the devs change the game’s setting from a modern day metropolis to the wild west or in this case: the fifties.
    + Motion cap and truthful facial expressions wouldn’t sell the story by itself, but the voice cast is also excellent. Voice actors of the game, especially of those of Vito’s and Joe’s give great performances to elevate the scenes.
    + While in most of the similar open world games, like GTA, the police are there just because they have to be, in Mafia II they actually do their job. When you break the speed limit, pass through a red light or crash a car in the traffic, they will pursue your car and arrest or fine you. Based of the seriousness of the felony they will intensify your pursuit. And actually they can remember you clothes or the plate number of the car you were driving. It’s not perfect, but at least it tries and succeeds in many ways.

    ~ The chapter-based progress of the game isn’t the most suited for and open world game. This type of mission structure simply discourages the player to roam in the city.
    ~ While the voice work and animations are great, you simply can’t connect with the characters. They act, most of the time like droids without any morals. Killing a dozen people? Sure. Betraying a friend? Why not. At the end of the game you’ll look on Vito as he is soul-less bastard…which he is, based on his actions.

    - At first sight Mafia II reveals itself as an open world game, but honestly and sadly it’s not true at all. It has a very linear mission design that leaves no room for exploration. You always have a task to do or a place to go leaving no room for exploration. Creating a great city and not use it properly is a major overkill.
    - Simply put: it’s too short. There are fifteen missions of which only a couple last longer than an hour, stretching the game time to around 9 hours total. That wouldn’t be THAT big a deal but…
    - …there are no side activities to speak of. It’s an abuse to this great city. When you finish the campaign, you are done with Empire Bay sadly, and there’s nothing to come back for.
    - The story isn’t the strongest either. It’s full of clichés and stereotypes. At one time it seems that it’ll try to explore different routes, but soon after goes back to the overused formula. War between families and gangs, everybody is betraying everybody else, and latter is portrayed even at the very end of the game.

    Time to beat: 9 hours
    Replay Value: 1/5
    In one word: Step Back
    On P’n’C scale: One Timer
    Must give points: 70

    MORE ON: http://prosncons.22web.org/    … Expand
  56. jamesphillip198
    Sep 14, 2013
    7
    I like the game, I haven't enjoyed it as much as Mafia I, but still enjoyed it pretty much. Just didn't like that they didn't include Free-Ride and Free-Ride Extreme. After you complete the game, there's nothing else you can do. Mechanics, soundtrack and graphics are nice, but the soundtrack and vehicles doesn't match to historical date (maybe for the sake of gameplay.) I prefered Mafia 1I like the game, I haven't enjoyed it as much as Mafia I, but still enjoyed it pretty much. Just didn't like that they didn't include Free-Ride and Free-Ride Extreme. After you complete the game, there's nothing else you can do. Mechanics, soundtrack and graphics are nice, but the soundtrack and vehicles doesn't match to historical date (maybe for the sake of gameplay.) I prefered Mafia 1 story, but this one is well-written as well. Good game.… Expand
  57. Marick
    Sep 22, 2014
    10
    Another successful game from 2K Czech (ex-Illusion Softworks). I love to see games like this. This game really worth playing, even if he stayed a long time in development. Some very good soundtracks. What can I say, Mafia game series is one of the best games ever created.

    " Away from Sicily, across the ocean to start a new life in America. Never in my life had I seen anything as    Another successful game from 2K Czech (ex-Illusion Softworks). I love to see games like this. This game really worth playing, even if he stayed a long time in development. Some very good soundtracks. What can I say, Mafia game series is one of the best games ever created.

    " Away from Sicily, across the ocean to start a new life in America. Never in my life had I seen anything as fantastic as empire bay, it was beautiful. But on the other hand, I'd never seen anything more filthy and so disgusting as our new s--t-hole of an apartment. The American dream was more like a nightmare. " - Vito Scaleta    … Expand
  58. dandalis
    Oct 24, 2016
    7
    Really engaging Mafioso story, setting and main characters, suprisingly good gunplay, nicely detailed world that never gets used to its fullest being mostly boring and empty when youre off missions, driving mission to mission takes away too much time you could have spent on something else in your life, driving mechanics themselves are trying too hard to be realistic but can become annoyingReally engaging Mafioso story, setting and main characters, suprisingly good gunplay, nicely detailed world that never gets used to its fullest being mostly boring and empty when youre off missions, driving mission to mission takes away too much time you could have spent on something else in your life, driving mechanics themselves are trying too hard to be realistic but can become annoying as hell in the end, i think they should have made the game linear in nature because its clear that this is a inferior open world experience compared to original Mafia. Overall flawed game, but flaws can be overlooked if a great story is what youre after.… Expand
  59. SuicideMachine
    Aug 26, 2010
    8
    Mafia II suffers from everything, that name 2K reminds me off - System Shock 2 fans disappointed with Bioshock, should know what's the word - simplicity! That's right - Mafia 2 is just too simple, when it supposed to be much more complicated - it's even more simple than the first game. All you do is, you take a care, you go to place marked on a map, you do what you're asked for and you goMafia II suffers from everything, that name 2K reminds me off - System Shock 2 fans disappointed with Bioshock, should know what's the word - simplicity! That's right - Mafia 2 is just too simple, when it supposed to be much more complicated - it's even more simple than the first game. All you do is, you take a care, you go to place marked on a map, you do what you're asked for and you go back home, you take a sleep, next chapter begins and a cycle starts over again. Fortunately, it's not all that bad - 2K Czech took care about a few gameplay twists, to the game isn't boring, while the whole "get to the point" thing helps to speed up the plot and somehow build a great atmosphere. Speaking of plot, it isn't better than in Mafia (1), but that doesn't stop it from being great and surprising player... although, I figured out some of a surprises in game long before, they happened (especially when it comes to Vito's father death). Also, players who played Mafia (1) will be pleasantly surprised here and there, seeing the referees to the first game (I almost cried in Chapter 14: Stairway to Heaven... I won't spoil it what it was, anyway who finished the first game, will notice it as soon as cutscene starts). Before, I get to the technical part, I must mention thought, that was haunting me through almost entire game and that is - "Give me, more freedom!". That's right, developers gave the players some ability to choose (for example who to get rid of cops, who to dress, what to change in car)... but when you watch cutscenes, you will quickly notice that there was supposed to be some choices in game - after watching the main part of dialogue there, the character usually ask "So, are you in?". You'd like to grab a mouse and choose the action, but unfortunately, you won't get that chance... too bad, because watching Vito wrong decisions is kind of annoying sometimes. When it comes to a technical part of Mafia - it's almost a masterpiece! The sounds are great! It's been a long time, since I've heard such a great sounds in video games and the graphics? Well, let's just say it's the best looking game, I've seen so far. The city is extremely highly detailed - I couldn't believed that the all that was rendered in real-time and ran over 30 frames per seconds on my already old PC. Better, a lot of elements of environment can be destroyed, metal that covers a car folds when you hit some obstacles and there is even a realistic snow that will cover parts of a car, not to mention scratches... with that said, the game's engine has a one major problem - it isn't very stable. It has a tendency to crash in some certain parts of game. The last thing, that I have to mention is that players will be disappointed after finishing the game (it took me about 8 hours on Hard difficulty, so it's not a long game)... why? Because there's nothing. All you get is "Family Album" and that's it. There's not Free Ride mode, nothing. You can only load a previous save and replay some episode - that's probably the biggest flaws of this game... but overall - it's a good sequel.… Expand
  60. Magnanimous_j
    May 6, 2011
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Long story short: Its a B- game that is very disappointing to anyone who loved the original. The first Mafia was a love letter to really old cars. You had a huge garage (which somehow made sense) where you collected them, start to finish. Mafia II, cars, even though a good chunk of your time is spent behind the wheel, you could drive the first car you get through the whole game and not miss much. Most of the cars handle the same. The story in Mafia II is a MESS. It starts out really promising, establishing characters, motives, etc, then falls apart. It feels like the game was originally twice as long and they edited out major scenes to save length or something. By the climax, you have no real idea why your shooting it out with the guy your fighting. Speaking of combat, the same problems in the first one crop up in the sequel. Combat in Mafia II is really fun, I won't take that away from it. But in such a story driven game, its problematic. Accidentally killing a minor character in one part of the game spawns a whole mission where you have to sneakily dispose of the body and smooth things over with the powers that be. Fine, that's Mob Movie 101: The old guard doesn't approve what the reckless cowboy young gangsters are doing. The problem is that one mission earlier, you wasted 30 guys in broad daylight and never heard about it again. The biggest complaint: No free ride, WTF?… Expand
  61. osterac
    Mar 17, 2011
    3
    This game, even though it it has only said to be "good not great," is far overrated. I found that the beginning was too easy, the middle was boring, repetitive and overly-linear with gunfights starting and ending from one piece of cover; and the end was die-a-thousand-deaths frustrating. The AI can almost always shoot you first.

    Throughout the game, you don't get to make a single    This game, even though it it has only said to be "good not great," is far overrated. I found that the beginning was too easy, the middle was boring, repetitive and overly-linear with gunfights starting and ending from one piece of cover; and the end was die-a-thousand-deaths frustrating. The AI can almost always shoot you first.

    Throughout the game, you don't get to make a single decision. You just watch while your character ruins his life and the lives of those around him. Yes, this is mob life but I would feel a little better about it if I had some say. On top of that, the game basically requires no thought on behalf of the player. The game is always telling you exactly what to do and where to go. It even gives you an NPC buddy on all the missions to guide you through the level. Just follow him through the levels and you'll never get lost. Oh, and he can't be killed. Use him as a bullet sponge.

    Then there's the driving. Who wants to play a video game where you can get speeding tickets? Seriously? And hit and run fines? And whenever whassname is in the car and I run a red light he says "what do you have an aversion to red lights?" I don't play video games to wait in traffic!! I also came into this game hoping it would be a sandbox game. Just so you know, it is not. You do a mission, and you can either 1. drive around and, well, there's not really anything to do because there are no minigames, or 2. sleep and go to the next chapter. Which almost always starts with the phone ringing.

    And another thing. There are times in the game where you lose all your money. More than one. So you save up all this cash, maybe you're looking to buy that special something, and boom. Gone. Yeah.

    It's a good thing I only paid $7.50 for this game. Gotta love midweek madness on Steam.    … Expand
  62. masteratt
    Sep 2, 2010
    7
    First of all: All comparisons to GTA (and any other game) are moot in my opinion, they are not even trying to do the same thing, not even close. And on the game: If you are looking for a story driven game (story is good but not super amazing), that is strictly mission based (missions are mostly good), then this game is for you. It is nothing more, nothing less.
  63. Metalsand
    Sep 25, 2013
    9
    More like a movie than a video game, Mafia II still has solid gameplay and good feel, with plenty of twists and turns in the game, but with Mafia II, they sacrificed a bit of freedom and open-world feel to make the story fresh and interesting with good gameplay.

    Like many people reviewing, the first thing I have to say is that the game is short, without any extra depth to the side    More like a movie than a video game, Mafia II still has solid gameplay and good feel, with plenty of twists and turns in the game, but with Mafia II, they sacrificed a bit of freedom and open-world feel to make the story fresh and interesting with good gameplay.

    Like many people reviewing, the first thing I have to say is that the game is short, without any extra depth to the side missions, so if you are buying this for the replay value, don't. The game may be fun, but after you complete the campaign, there is nothing left to do, hell, even during the game there are few options to do side-missions, and even then, the extra money can't be used for a whole lot, and because of a plot development, becomes useless. Additionally, auto-saving can be a bit of a pain in the ass, since it only autosaves before a big fight, rather than after mission objectives are completed, so if you crash, you're and have to replay several minutes of gameplay at least.

    Despite this, I love this game, because the plot kept me hooked. I went into this game expecting GTA mafia edition, and came out feeling like I finished a good movie. Additionally, this game went with a balance leaning towards realism, albeit keeping game elements in. For instance, if you get into a fist-fight with a random bystander, the police won't run over to you and cap you for it, but rather they will tell you to break it up, and keep the fighting off the streets. If you are speeding, they will attempt to pursue, but if you go around a corner they pretty much stop caring. Likewise, if you steal a car, or kill someone, they could take down your description or license plate, so those would have to be changed too, either by a new outfit, or buying a license plate from a shady garage.

    Overall, I loved this game, and wish there were more like it. Too many games sacrifice plot and MEANINGFUL gameplay for appealing to a wider audience. This might be the part where I'd say I would definitively play again, except I already have.    … Expand
  64. Knotsie
    Aug 5, 2013
    10
    I got this game in a deal with bioshock infinite and honestly didn't expect much from it. Maybe that helped a lot, as this game provided me with an amazing experience. The atmosphere in this game is just so great, you really get the feeling you are in the past. Next to that the missions are fun and I liked the mafia story a lot. The ending was one of the best I've seen in a video game, itI got this game in a deal with bioshock infinite and honestly didn't expect much from it. Maybe that helped a lot, as this game provided me with an amazing experience. The atmosphere in this game is just so great, you really get the feeling you are in the past. Next to that the missions are fun and I liked the mafia story a lot. The ending was one of the best I've seen in a video game, it really makes you think about the tough world of the past. My only critique about the game is that there is not much to do after the story, but since the story was so good it's no big deal to me. So that's why I definitely recommend getting this game, just don't expect an open world game like GTA or Saints Row, as this one is far more story based.… Expand
  65. Ottar
    Sep 3, 2010
    3
    Terrible, disappointing game, with poor story. Only graphic is good. After 10 hours of playing it i feel like taxi driver. Ohh im sorry, sometimes i can also "press a button". Extremely boring to play. Linear game - there's absolutely nothing to do beetween chapters.
  66. c00biX
    Aug 27, 2010
    8
    Good graphics and sounds, great optimization... If you`ve liked first part of mafia story, you must play the second... It is very easy to spot a bad sides of the game and did not spot the really good ones. This game is not a "sandbox" type, and clearly it is different from overrated "GTA IV" game (when we`re talking about game play), - it is not game for kids, it`s good action gameGood graphics and sounds, great optimization... If you`ve liked first part of mafia story, you must play the second... It is very easy to spot a bad sides of the game and did not spot the really good ones. This game is not a "sandbox" type, and clearly it is different from overrated "GTA IV" game (when we`re talking about game play), - it is not game for kids, it`s good action game with very good story... Because of few bigger "bugs", and because it is way to short, to completely feel all true spirit of the game, I`ll give it "strong" 8 out of 10.… Expand
  67. fuwaneko
    Aug 29, 2010
    8
    Good story, bad gameplay. That's it. It's like Metro2033 that had same problem. Mafia 2 is good as movie, but as game it's awful. Still, I suggest it's nice buy for fans and nostalgic gamers.
  68. Air
    Aug 27, 2010
    7
    If you're looking for a good third-person cover shooter with some minimal open world elements, then Mafia II is surely the game for you. However, should you be looking for anything more than that, then you might play this game feeling unfulfilled. The high point of this game is in its presentation, where it truly immerses you into the 1940's, and you could tell that it really tookIf you're looking for a good third-person cover shooter with some minimal open world elements, then Mafia II is surely the game for you. However, should you be looking for anything more than that, then you might play this game feeling unfulfilled. The high point of this game is in its presentation, where it truly immerses you into the 1940's, and you could tell that it really took advantage of this era when it provides 40's music (whether you like it or not) all the way to the clothing styles. It's all very intricate and nice to look at, even if there are some elements that seem to be added in with no purpose (such as the ability to turn on sinks and flush toilets).

    However, apart from this, Mafia II is a pretty average third-person shooter. Nothing prolific, but still fun to play. Don't expect a fun open world game such as Grand Theft Auto, because Mafia II seems to really discourage you from toying around in the beautiful New York rendition they had crafted. For example, there are no side missions, few enterable buildings, and your time to explore is limited to a few sections during missions. And as such, Mafia II doesn't feel like a Sandbox game, but rather a third-person shooter taking place in a somewhat open-world environment.

    Gameplay consists of shooting from the third person perspective, cover playing a large role. Most cover can be destroyed easily, which adds a cool perspective to combat. Weapon selection is standard, and there really isn't anything here that hasn't been done before in other third-person shooters. When you are not participating in these gunfights, you will often be doing some tedious driving missions which are long-winded and unnecessary.

    However, the story is what is really going to hook people in to buy Mafia II. So, is it any good? Well, if you look at it by itself without any knowledge of other mobster films, then I suppose it is an alright story, but since I'm sure we've all watched Goodfellas and The Godfather, then Mafia II seems unoriginal and downright boring at times, but does have some very cool moments amidst the tedium.

    I had really hyped up this game due to its predecessor being groundbreaking and great fun, and Mafia II was slightly disappointing. But in its own right, its a fun game; nothing special. You'll likely be hooked to it until the finish, don't expect a clean resolution. The setpiece battles can be quite visceral at times, and everything in the game works with few bugs.

    Overall, I don't think you should go into this game with the high expectations that the original Mafia may have brought, but as a third-person shooter with nothing to hide, Mafia II is a good game. Even without a true open world structure, the world still manages to feel massive and alive, and the 40's environment is used to its fullest potential.    … Expand
  69. wordy_actions
    Aug 23, 2011
    5
    A beautiful game filled with nothing to do. The game developers have crafted a large and well-designed city. However, there's almost nothing to do beyond driving from mission to mission. The combat is a generic third-person cover based shooter which we've all seen before. The game's pace is slow, and with nothing beyond doing story missions there's little depth here or free-roaming. TheA beautiful game filled with nothing to do. The game developers have crafted a large and well-designed city. However, there's almost nothing to do beyond driving from mission to mission. The combat is a generic third-person cover based shooter which we've all seen before. The game's pace is slow, and with nothing beyond doing story missions there's little depth here or free-roaming. The story and voice-acting is fine, but it's not enough to prop up an ultimately boring game.… Expand
  70. grandpajoe6191
    Nov 8, 2011
    7
    "Mafia 2" is a good game to enjoy. If you can live on with a 8 hour campaign and a linear story driven story, you'll love this. The graphics are undeniably sweet as well as the keyboard controls. If you have time to spare, try playing it.
  71. skruf
    Aug 25, 2010
    9
    After a long wait for the sequel of the cult game Mafia, it has finally been released. Mafia 2 set you in the shoes of Vito Scaletta, a young boy that that is sent to the army....well you probably know the small details already, since this will probably not be the first review you will read.

    I decided to put my review up here because this game has been getting some questionable scores    After a long wait for the sequel of the cult game Mafia, it has finally been released. Mafia 2 set you in the shoes of Vito Scaletta, a young boy that that is sent to the army....well you probably know the small details already, since this will probably not be the first review you will read.

    I decided to put my review up here because this game has been getting some questionable scores from very known sites. I however see it in a different approach then these have. Actually it has been getting some false hate because most people have expected something that wasn`t really there, and was properly advertised in this way to. Mafia II is in fact a story game, with Empire Bay just as an extra asset. This isn`t you`re typical free roam game, simply because it really wasn`t designed as one either.

    It heavily relies on the story, which is in fact really great put, though there could have been some better pacing at certain times. Some of the missions actually has some really great locations and good action packed is it also. All from simply lifting boxes in to a truck, to be telephone operator that steals jewelery, it goes away from the dated "go there and kill these people" and that was the mission. In fact, most of the missions is like this, but it hides it in such a good way that it really immerses you in every way possible. In this aspect, it shines more than I have seen in almost any game, if not the most of them all. Remember, this could have been just a game that didn`t actually have a city at all, but it`s still there. This was never a free roam game, the developers have stated this several times. Soundtrack in itself is simply put amazing. It fits the 40s and the 50s era perfect, even if some of the songs it not entirely accurate of the timeline. Voice acting is as strong as you can get in a video game, it really is believable and makes the characters more believable than there actions make them out to be. You feel sympathy with Vito and his situation, it is really close to perfection this area. In the end, if you can retract the fact that this is not a free roam game like GTA, you will have one of the best experiences this gen. 9.2    … Expand
  72. Winters
    Sep 3, 2010
    2
    Mafia II seems to have thrown out all that was good with the original, absorbed all that was bad about The Godfather and created a resource-hungry, cut-scene spamming monster.

    Don't trust the trailers with the nice voice acting and cut-scenes. That is all the game has to it. The game play is virtually non-existent and completely linear. I would have given this a rating of 1 but there must    Mafia II seems to have thrown out all that was good with the original, absorbed all that was bad about The Godfather and created a resource-hungry, cut-scene spamming monster.

    Don't trust the trailers with the nice voice acting and cut-scenes. That is all the game has to it. The game play is virtually non-existent and completely linear. I would have given this a rating of 1 but there must be something worse out there. Surely?    … Expand
  73. Massiv
    Sep 4, 2010
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The story, the characters, the world, the graphics, the music were perfect for me, I really enjoyed all the time, I played Mafia II. It is true that maybe the car driving part was bigger than expected, but I also enjoyed these, because it was good to drive in an enviroment like this. Vito's character is good, but it cannot beat the first game's perfect Tommy Angelo. On the other hand Joe is one of the best side-kicks I ever seen in a game. The rest of the characters are very well made. In Mafia II, we have experienced the most special way to connect two game's stories, I really couldn't believe my eyes, when I arrived THAT house in Chapter 14. I really liked the idea of starting the game in the world war II. I think there is only one big problem with this game. I don't mind that it is short. I don't mind that most of the time I had to drive a car (what I really enjoyed, as I said before), but the ending of the game is terrible. I mean, the way the game ends, is not a real ending. Yeah, Joe has to die, and maybe Vito should die too, I am not saying this is a bad ending. The way the game ends is what I don't like. It isn't dramatic enough. Leo's last words meant to be dramatic, but they aren't. There isn't a "The End", or a Mafia II logo before the credits roll, and all this doesn't make a good ending. Normally I would give a 10 to this game, but with this ending I would say only 7 or 8. But... I think the story is intended to not to be closed down, and I think we will see DLCs in the future, which will continue the game's story. With this being said, I really trust in Mafia II's story being continued, and I am sure the developers can make such a good ending, that the first game has. This is why I give the game 9 points of 10...… Expand
  74. Dyscivist
    Aug 4, 2013
    4
    Not enough stuff to do for it to be considered a sandbox game. The story is horrible, and the ending is such a pile that it's hysterical, especially with how serious they try to make it. Hey, you know this character you don't care about at all? He's dead. Sick dude, pan to the skyscrapers on a rainy night and cue the music. Hackneyed trash. The gameplay's alright, nothing great, nothingNot enough stuff to do for it to be considered a sandbox game. The story is horrible, and the ending is such a pile that it's hysterical, especially with how serious they try to make it. Hey, you know this character you don't care about at all? He's dead. Sick dude, pan to the skyscrapers on a rainy night and cue the music. Hackneyed trash. The gameplay's alright, nothing great, nothing bad, but definitely not enough to get rid of the sour taste this game left me with.

    Play the original Mafia instead. It's better.    … Expand
  75. CastleFox
    Jul 23, 2011
    7
    Review REVISITED:

    I finished the Mafia II game. The in-game stats said I played 16 hours. I'm really on the fence with this one because there are so many things I like but a few things I really don't like. I'll categorize my Pros, Cons, and Recommendations to the developers. PROS 1. Great story line that draws you in. Good Cut scenes. 2. Great Graphics and design 3. Great sound tracks    Review REVISITED:

    I finished the Mafia II game. The in-game stats said I played 16 hours. I'm really on the fence with this one because there are so many things I like but a few things I really don't like. I'll categorize my Pros, Cons, and Recommendations to the developers. PROS
    1. Great story line that draws you in. Good Cut scenes. 2. Great Graphics and design
    3. Great sound tracks from the 40's and 50's. I LOVE THE 1950's time period. You feel like you really are in the time period. 4.Weather and Lighting - Amazing job with the lighting. Morning feels like morning with the sun light correctly highlighting on buildings and cars. Evening feels like evening. And night is night. The Snow and Ice is a nice change from dry pavement in so many games. 5. Audio Design is great! Good sound effects and top quality sounds. 6. The story really pulls you in and you keep playing to see what happens next. I actually cared about what was happening to the characters in the game. I found myself saying (WTF) a few times out loud as the story progressed and a few surprises popped up I didn't expect. 6. Shoot Outs. I love the shoot outs! The Duck and Cover ability and the weapons. You feel like you are really in an action movie in a gun fight. The PhysX are great too with bullet holes, breaking glass, sparks and fire. Awesome! Over all the feel and design was a #10. But I only gave it a 7 due to the CONS listed below. CONS.

    1. Too short. (Play on at least Medium or HARD level to extend the playability of this game. It's only about 15 chapters long and it ends fast. It's way too short for $30 dollar game.
    There is content you can download like cars and clothes, but half the time you spend changing your clothes because you are wanted by the police, or using different cars anyway. For a game that has very little RE-PLAY value, it doesn't make the extra content worth having. (Yes, I purchased 2 content packs) 2. MOST of the driving physics are modeled very real. However the control of the cars is frustrating and not that fun. It feels like you are always fighting just to drive the car. For a game that is centered so heavily around DRIVING it's a real CON. But not bad enough to not play. Just annoying. 3. Vehicle Views is another huge CON for me. The 3rd person car camera RESETS to a default position every time you try and get a different angle or view while driving. It's very annoying. (Developers, it should be more like GTA4 where you can keep the camera position where you want it when driving. The second CON is when using the HOOD CAM or Full View Driving Cam you can't move your view to check for traffic when crossing streets or making turns. This is a HUGE problem. It makes the other views pretty much worthless. If you are going to have so much driving in a game, you need to make sure these issues are FIXED!

    Over all I loved the feel and style of the game. It ended a bit abrupt as if the developers wanted an excuse to create Mafia 3. It leaves you saying..."Eh, What? That's the end?" If the game wasn't $30 bucks, it wouldn't be a huge deal since there are other Downloadable missions and content. I didn't pay full price ($7 bucks on Steam) but for a $30 dollar game it needed more. And idea would be to sell the BASE GAME and Story for a lower price of $9.99 and then sell additional story packs for $5 bucks. You would make more money and players would get more game time and not feel ripped off. Just an idea. I'd buy extra story packs if the base game was cheaper and a bit longer. Hope this helps the creators as well as the potential players of this game. (LOVED THE 1950'S MUSIC AND THEME! A great and refreshing change!)    … Expand
  76. Ghoster
    Jul 24, 2012
    10
    Awesome sequel of awesome game. Great graphics and story. If few parts little annoying but overall awesome worthy game! Atmosphere is also great specially with car music change as years and decades pass. Good work!
  77. UltimateCD
    Oct 21, 2013
    4
    With its strict linear nature there is next to no replay value, unless you want to collect Playboy bunny pictures. The sad part of all of this is that there is a good game lost inside the driving, the save checkpoints, and the silly time wasting missions.
  78. AiredaleMan
    Jun 21, 2013
    9
    Excellent game, great graphics, sound, acting, story and gameplay, open world a bit lacking when compared to GTA but you could say that about any semi-linear game.
  79. Towern
    Jun 22, 2013
    10
    NO! ITS NOT A GTA! So what?? I love this game, great story, MUSIC, cars... basically the perfect 40-50's
    I've played it +100 hours (without the DLC's that I recently bought), passed the story like 4 times, and a hell lot of fun walking around with a Tommy Gun shoting stuff! +Awesome police chases.
    If it has problems?? Of course and so what? Every game has them, and it doesn't mean you    NO! ITS NOT A GTA! So what?? I love this game, great story, MUSIC, cars... basically the perfect 40-50's
    I've played it +100 hours (without the DLC's that I recently bought), passed the story like 4 times, and a hell lot of fun walking around with a Tommy Gun shoting stuff! +Awesome police chases.
    If it has problems?? Of course and so what? Every game has them, and it doesn't mean you won't have great experience!
    RECOMMENDED +10000    … Expand
  80. Icegames
    Aug 30, 2010
    8
    Mafia 2 is one of the most atmospheric games I have played. The cool cars, the city and great pick in music with good characters make this game extremely cool. But when you are looking at the big city and almost falling into that cool 50´s vibe my next thought was trough out the game was always "why didn´t they do that" It almost feels like someone pulled theMafia 2 is one of the most atmospheric games I have played. The cool cars, the city and great pick in music with good characters make this game extremely cool. But when you are looking at the big city and almost falling into that cool 50´s vibe my next thought was trough out the game was always "why didn´t they do that" It almost feels like someone pulled the plug on that one division that was supposed to give me the key to the city. It almost pisses me off knowing that so little has to be added to make this one of the all time greatest games made. I give this game a 8 but wished I was giving it a 10… Expand
  81. redassasin22
    Sep 6, 2010
    10
    The best game i have ever played hands down, great story line, i absolutely loved the ending and it was a really good port for the PC which was surprising after ports like GTA 4 and Saints Row 2
  82. Reize
    Jan 3, 2011
    6
    I bought Mafia 2 expecting an epic open world gangster game, this is clearly not the case. The story, voice acting and cinematics are outstanding, but the grand city of Empire Bay feels rather hollow and empty. There are a couple of clothing stores to customize Vito Scaletta's appearance, and some body shops to paint and upgrade your cars, but soon you realize that you can do just as wellI bought Mafia 2 expecting an epic open world gangster game, this is clearly not the case. The story, voice acting and cinematics are outstanding, but the grand city of Empire Bay feels rather hollow and empty. There are a couple of clothing stores to customize Vito Scaletta's appearance, and some body shops to paint and upgrade your cars, but soon you realize that you can do just as well with a dusty old family car as an upgraded 50000 dollar sports-car, and that the clothing options are rather thin. And if you want to go out and explore the city you will have to do so in between two checkpoints in a mission. The whole city feels like a big tease. Now, the game itself is good, gunfights are entertaining (though certainly not challenging, even on the highest difficulty) and the overall game mechanic is good, but it doesn't reach higher than that. Mafia 2 is a game you will play for the story and the atmosphere. Simply put: Good but not great.… Expand
  83. huevosbenedicto
    Feb 21, 2011
    7
    'm a big fan of what Mafia 2 does. I really am. The game provides an excellent story with solid graphics and gameplay, but it doesn't provide a bang for your buck at all, in fact it feels unfinished, and for this I wouldn't recommend a full purchase. Let's start with the good points, of which there are many of. The main draw of the game is the plot, which, while being the standard'm a big fan of what Mafia 2 does. I really am. The game provides an excellent story with solid graphics and gameplay, but it doesn't provide a bang for your buck at all, in fact it feels unfinished, and for this I wouldn't recommend a full purchase. Let's start with the good points, of which there are many of. The main draw of the game is the plot, which, while being the standard 8-10 hours, is one of the better of 2010. You play as Vito Scaletta, who came to America with his family when he was a child, and soon fell into small time crime with school buddy Joe. Until, that is, when Mafia 2 takes an unexpected twist, before you've performed any actual gameplay. They show you being arrested and, as the year was 1943, put into the army, to fight with the army in Italy. It's here where you have the tutorial level, in what's a surreal experience, a third-person World War 2 level. After you finish, Vito explains that he got shot a couple of years later, and comes home to Empire Bay for a month's leave, where he meets with Joe and his mother and sister. Joe throws you a solid and orders a forged doctor's note explaining you can't fight anymore, through his connections with the mafia. It's here you begin doing a few errands for the family he's with. After a few levels doing this, Mafia 2 throws unexpected twist number two: you get thrown in the big house. A federal big house, to that. And you actually play some of this time, to which I laughed and made a joke about a mission involving you trying to not drop the soap, something which almost came terrifyingly true. Anyway, you get out 6 years later, meet up with Joe again, and work from there, not giving anything away. Safe to say, the ride you do take is a great one. As mentioned in the intro, both gameplay and graphics are stellar. The shooting controls are mainly Grand Theft Auto style, except with no auto aim, which isn't all too bad. However, sprinting is performed by L1/LT, which has no stamina limit. For actions such as opening a door or jacking a car, there are two options; a quiet option where you either open or pick the lock (a cool new feature) and don't gain attention easily, or a fast, loud option, where you smash everything, which will gain attention. Driving is also GTA-esque, with heavy mid-century cars handling pretty well (and reach impressive 125 mph+ speeds) , although there is no option to perform a drive-by, which is sorely missed. The graphics are very good, with faces looking realistic, but there isn't much chance to appreciate it in the open world. There is, however, one draw back, which drags it down severely: the lack of extra things to do and re- playability. The game is a linear game, i.e. not open world like GTA, which isn't bad by any means, but limits your wondering around. Also, there isn't a "free-roam" option at the end of the game. This makes it quite hard to gauge when to do things in Empire Bay. There are 2 collectibles during the game; wanted posters, which you don't know when to go finding, and there is no incentive to do so. There also isn't a gameplay incentive to collect the Playboy magazines, but you will. You can also buy various clothes, which add to the feel of the game, and some of the suits are pretty sweet. To gain money to do this you can crush or sell cars, apart from completing missions. And that's about it. No multiplayer, which is fine, in fact I prefer single player-orientated games. But there aren't any side missions either, which isn't fine. Why? Because this is an unfinished game. Two contacts appear early in the game; Mike and Derek, and they appear in Level 2. After this, their icons appear on the map, and you can go talk to them, to which they say something on the lines of "Sorry kid, there's nothing for you today." There never is. Ever. Why would they put this in if there aren't any? Because they planned on having some, but then took them out, probably because they ran out of time, for a game they spent a long time working on. And on the internet, I've watched an entire, working level, which didn't appear in the game. Why? Because of creative purposes, I hear you say Take 2? Of course not, because you ran out of time to integrate it , or you couldn't be bothered. And that's what's annoying. Overall, rating wise:
    Gameplay: 8.5
    Graphics: 8.5
    Story: 9
    Lasting Appeal: 5    … Expand
  84. joemama
    Jan 7, 2011
    7
    Graphics : City beautifully rendered, high attention to detail with good variation. Effects well done.
    Sound : Good with excellent voice acting. Awesome music. Story : Average - This is where the game starts to show some cracks in the armor. Imo, 2K should abandoned the strictly linear, movie-style gameplay that worked so well for Mafia. The only way to really capture an audience is with    Graphics : City beautifully rendered, high attention to detail with good variation. Effects well done.
    Sound : Good with excellent voice acting. Awesome music. Story : Average - This is where the game starts to show some cracks in the armor. Imo, 2K should abandoned the strictly linear, movie-style gameplay that worked so well for Mafia. The only way to really capture an audience is with some sort of engaging/interactive gameplay with repercussions to the story.
    Bottom line - for as much as 2K raved about how great the story was going to be, it really wasn't . The suspense/excitement was minimal. I really looked forward to this game coming out ever since they announced, but unfortunately I was left feeling a bit disappointed overall. Maybe the hypothetical Mafia 3 will make amends.    … Expand
  85. MustisTheCat
    Jun 26, 2014
    6
    Painfully mediocre TPP story shooter.
    The main singleplayer took 10 hours to beat, that is good. This game is very uneven in such a way that in some areas it is very nice, in others sub-mediocre. The DLCs are totally worthless.
    STORY Pretty standard Godfellas stuff. Few plots orbiting around one main plot but none of them goes on its own. Some chapters were good whereas some sucked    Painfully mediocre TPP story shooter.
    The main singleplayer took 10 hours to beat, that is good. This game is very uneven in such a way that in some areas it is very nice, in others sub-mediocre. The DLCs are totally worthless.

    STORY
    Pretty standard Godfellas stuff. Few plots orbiting around one main plot but none of them goes on its own. Some chapters were good whereas some sucked royally (example : jail chapter). I was left wanting for more as the story ends abdruptly. I liked the main characters, others were just believable. Pretty good storytelling and dialogues. Enjoyable but way too short.

    GAMEPLAY
    This is where this game underdelivers. There are many bad limitations to the way you get around with your character (example : can`t shoot while in car) and with really no excuse. It feels unfinished because you cannot do what you are normally used to in a TPP sandbox game. There is no ranged melee (you can`t use a club, a knife). Moreover, there isn`t too many types of missions you do, most of them are just go here, wack this guy, go there, deliver this package, rinse and repeat. Some more variety would really be welcome.
    The shooting and guns is very good here and saves the gameplay just enough I could get through the whole game. Nice variety of guns, each gun is different and suitable for different type of engagements. So the shootouts are very nice, it`s just that you don`t get too use them too often (I was hoping for a bank robbery mission but no).
    Also, the cars are very nice. Very fun to drive. Again, each car is little different in a noticeable way. Just not many of types of vehicles so you see the same ones over and over.
    Sadly, the AI buries the shootouts. Your teammates are unable to getby on their own, they do a terrible job of helping you. The enemy AI is super accurate with guns, has flash-like reflexes. As in the Mafia game, the cops are really strong, take three or more bullets to put down. And they appear out of nowhere carrying Thompson machineguns. They act like military veterans, charging you from every corner. They make getting around the town a really frustrating time, and since this is a sandbox type game, you get a lot of coppers shooting you when for example you have 1 minute to perform a bombing mission. So in between taking up assignments you are forced to deal with them when they interfere and it is just very frustrating.
    The customisation options are there, but they leave a lot more to be desired.
    In addition there are some noticeable bugs that took me out of the experience.
    Also, the checkpoint system instead of saves is just horrid. The checkpoints are too far apart in time. So few times I lost about 90 minutes of gameplay because one cop shot me and I had to repeat it.

    GRAPHICS
    Very nice most of the time. The town looks ok, inanimate objects are well detailed, people look good from afar. Interiors of some of the apartments look very cool and detailed. It is the cutscenes that show the weak sides - the complexion on the characters looks nothing like real skin, more like orange couloured concrete.

    Overall a very mixed experience. Was fun in some areas, in others left a bad taste. Not the Mafia game I was hoping for.    … Expand
  86. Edvin048
    Aug 13, 2011
    7
    Mafia 2 is a good game,but it's kinda let down to all "Mafia" fans who waited for this sequel to be longer and better.
    The story is good,but it's kinda short for a Mafia game.The graphics are good but not what was expected to be.Finally this is a pretty good game,but it's kinda bad that it is too short...
  87. sinadoom
    Dec 1, 2013
    7
    Mafia II is a great game, let me just start with that. The guys at Illusion Softworks have done it again. The game engine is fantastic, and makes everything feel realistic. The driving (in simulation mode), the combat, the cover system,the guns, the AI, the lighting, the textures, cutscenes, animations and of course, PhysX are all brilliant. I'd go as far as saying that this game'sMafia II is a great game, let me just start with that. The guys at Illusion Softworks have done it again. The game engine is fantastic, and makes everything feel realistic. The driving (in simulation mode), the combat, the cover system,the guns, the AI, the lighting, the textures, cutscenes, animations and of course, PhysX are all brilliant. I'd go as far as saying that this game's visuals and physics programming are superior to that of GTA IV. On top of that, the game is of good length and has decent characters and a nice story. BUT MAKE NO MISTAKE this is not even in the same league compared to the original. The first game really had it cracked the pacing, the level design, the variety, the characters, the story, the soundtrack, the realism etc. Mafia II is still a Mafia game it's not a generic third-person shooter and is character driven, so don't expect much free-roam. I'm glad that this isn't a GTA clone, but in some aspects it has tried to be to appeal to a wider crowd. I felt like this game was heavily influenced by Grand Theft Auto IV. The story and missions aren't anywhere near as special as The City of Lost Heaven, and the characters are more shallow. Joe is almost a clone of Roman from GTA IV. There's also no Free Ride mode as in the first game either. However, what this game manages to do is make you feel like you've actually lived a day in the life of the main character, because each chapter Is packed with content and is of perfect length. Overall the game is a bit more predictable and more generic, and does nothing new. It's pretty much a combination of Mafia and GTA IV, which isn't a bad thing but the story isn't as good as in Mafia 1 and there's no extra content such as multiplayer or free-roam and side missions. It's worth playing if you liked GTA IV but if you're expecting it to even come close to touching the first game on any department, you're gonna be disappointed.… Expand
  88. gilas18
    Oct 20, 2011
    7
    I found the game quite on the awesome side but only for people who likes cars because this game has lots of driving around. Also has very nice graphics if you have a nice PC to play on and the music is simply the best. The downside of this is that the game is too short and to be an interesting game you have to buy all the DLCs which is almost 30â
  89. Vex
    Sep 7, 2012
    8
    This game is great on a lot of levels, yet it falls short on others. Let's start off with the atmosphere: the game has superb voice acting, great artistic style and overall a high level of authenticity. When you're driving around Empire bay in the winter of 1945 listening to real 40s music on the radio, it makes for a very special experience - it really makes you feel like you're there.This game is great on a lot of levels, yet it falls short on others. Let's start off with the atmosphere: the game has superb voice acting, great artistic style and overall a high level of authenticity. When you're driving around Empire bay in the winter of 1945 listening to real 40s music on the radio, it makes for a very special experience - it really makes you feel like you're there. Everything from the street signs to the clothes people wear to the cars on the street has a very authentic ring to it. Some scenes, such as the skyscraper one are very memorable and amazing in their own right. Everything in this game was done right except for a few things:
    1. It's not possible to have interactive conversations with other characters. Everything is prerecorded and while it does make for a nice cinematic experience (and makes you feel like you're watching a great movie), it does sometimes make you feel like you're not fully in control.
    2. Empire bay is very authentic and amazing but you don't get to do a whole lot. Interaction with the environment is somewhat limited.
    3. Some chapters were written poorly. Out of 15 chapters, you spend the first 10 doing small time jobs and basically feeling like a small time street criminal vs. a real mafia member. The story is pretty slow to pick up, though once it does it's very good. I only wish the game made you feel like a real mafia member for the greater part of the game and not only the last 33%.

    Otherwise, this game is amazing and plays like a good movie. Definitely worth it, even more so if you pick it up during a sale. You shouldn't have a problem getting 15 hours out of it assuming you're not trying to rush through it.    … Expand
  90. Beni_Madrid
    Oct 3, 2012
    9
    Mafia II is undoubtedly one of the best crime games. Game well because Graphics excellent, the plot is excellent, the game invested and good, the game very realistic and one example is that the police smarter, she'll want to check your identity card with a run and not hurt her, with a crash into a car or will go too fast you will conference with if you hit something you stop Drag andMafia II is undoubtedly one of the best crime games. Game well because Graphics excellent, the plot is excellent, the game invested and good, the game very realistic and one example is that the police smarter, she'll want to check your identity card with a run and not hurt her, with a crash into a car or will go too fast you will conference with if you hit something you stop Drag and weapons they fired you. The game is not perfect because the videos people look like dolls, short game and really you Walking about the city and the definition of "open world" is just a backdrop to the game itself. In sum game looks good but deepen it see it's not perfect… Expand
  91. Koreenium
    Mar 7, 2013
    8
    It doesn't come even close to the original Mafia but it was still fun game with nice graphics. Story was movie like but it worked. Ending was very sad and disapointing at first but later realized that the ending was quite realistic. Tho some people think that there will be Mafia III that will continue from where Mafia II left off... I doubt that.
    What sucks is that it had no free roam and    It doesn't come even close to the original Mafia but it was still fun game with nice graphics. Story was movie like but it worked. Ending was very sad and disapointing at first but later realized that the ending was quite realistic. Tho some people think that there will be Mafia III that will continue from where Mafia II left off... I doubt that.
    What sucks is that it had no free roam and almost nothing to do besides the quests. Driving was fun and AI was not as retarded as in GTA series. Sadly cars don't get deformed like they did in the first Mafia.    … Expand
  92. daan14acdc
    Mar 25, 2013
    8
    the story is epic but there are to much poeple you kill.
    the story is pretty short 11 hours and the replay is low.
    you can not move free like in gta so you need to play a chapter where you had good cars and money.
    its a small open world but fun its just a good game only they gut don hit much beter.
    the ending is pretty weird to.
    you must buy the dlc joe's adventure's
  93. NunoBerny
    Dec 20, 2013
    9
    I played the Mac version, not PC, but couldn't find an option for it. :(

    First few times I played, I liked it, but didn't find it anything special. Then, after a while without touching it, I decided to give it another chance. Well, that was a revelation. Taking this game serious, getting used to the controls and the way the game works has made me see it in a totally different light.    I played the Mac version, not PC, but couldn't find an option for it. :(

    First few times I played, I liked it, but didn't find it anything special.
    Then, after a while without touching it, I decided to give it another chance.
    Well, that was a revelation. Taking this game serious, getting used to the controls and the way the game works has made me see it in a totally different light. I've now finished two of the main campaigns and will start another soon.

    Pros:
    Graphically very impressive
    The sound is great, too
    Combat is well thought out, with few problems (mainly the boring hand-to-hand combat)
    Driving is basically perfect
    The missions are varied and enticing
    The extra content is great (despite a dependency on timed missions)
    Huge arsenal at your disposal
    Going on a rampage is a great stress-reliever
    Huge city to explore

    Cons:
    I can only see one the fact that, despite the city's magnificence, I was left wanting more places to go (and destroy). Most of the building are just there for cosmetic purposes. I wanted banks to rob, post offices to terrorise, a full stadium to go berserk (it's there, but you can't enter it), etc.
    As it stands, you have restaurants, gun shops, gas stations and cloth shops and nothing else (except on select missions).

    Conclusion:
    Awesome game, that could be only improved by extending what's already there.
    Unfortunately, that doesn't seem likely, given the game's age and lack of any news about it...    … Expand
  94. NShep53
    Jun 2, 2016
    7
    Mafia 2 bills itself as an open-world game. It even has an open-world. But it is not, in fact, an open-world game. A huge negative of this game is besides the story and some of the characters, this game feels lifeless. Yes, there are many different shops and restaurants to go to (hell you can rob them if you want) but there is nothing much to do. The story is the main driving force the ofMafia 2 bills itself as an open-world game. It even has an open-world. But it is not, in fact, an open-world game. A huge negative of this game is besides the story and some of the characters, this game feels lifeless. Yes, there are many different shops and restaurants to go to (hell you can rob them if you want) but there is nothing much to do. The story is the main driving force the of the game. The game is actually a very linear, story based action adventure, that just happens to be set in an open-world.

    The shooting and melee combat are fine. Nothing to write home and about. They certainly do get stale after a few hours. Don't expect anything great here.

    But don't get me wrong, Mafia 2 has positives. The best part of this game is it's atmosphere. It totally looks and feels like you are in 1940s-1950s. The soundtrack is also top-notch with some great songs from the era (though I do not like how most of the songs were actually from the late 50s, while you are in fact in the early part of the decade for the game). If this game did anything right, it was nailing the that old vibe. Because I really felt I was there, blasting some Dean Martin while blasting some mob thugs. It's too bad that everything is just so barren.

    Vito as a main character is great but he does have a few flaws that detract from the experience. For the sake of spoilers though, I'll just say he goes along with everything ALL the time, which seems dumb. It seems like he really doesn't have a mind of his own. But, I still like him as a character (great voice acting).

    So, the story. Every review I have seen says the story is great, the story is amazing, the reason to get this game is the story (aka the point of the game). So how is the story?

    It's the same old mobster story you have heard a million times.

    I know. I can hear the people yelling at this review now. But seriously, if you have seen The Godfather, Goodfellas or any other mob movie, you have already seen this one. EXCEPT one thing, which is the ending (and again no spoilers). All I will say is the ending of this game floored me. Totally unexpected.

    Do I recommend Mafia 2? It depends. If you are a sucker for the time period or Mafia/Mob games, then I will say Yes, go buy it now. But if you are expecting a true open world experience set in the 1950s (like I was) then I would probably say no. It is not that at all. I would advise the people to look up how much cut-content there was for Mafia 2 because there was a lot. This game was going to have over 180 missions and it definitely does not have that. I beat the game in around 10 hours.

    So Final Breakdown:
    +40s-50s Atmosphere
    +Soundtrack
    +Voice Acting is good
    +Graphics are nice for the time
    +Vito as a main character

    -... even though he has questionable character flaws
    -An open-world that is dry and bare bones as it can get
    -cliche'd ridden story (aka every Mob movie ever)
    -3rd person shooting gets boring after a few hours along with its melee fighting    … Expand
  95. aleksassta
    Aug 25, 2014
    10
    Graphic: awesome
    Music: awesome
    Story: awesome
    Gameplay: awesome

    This game is just perfect! I cant wait for Mafia 3! City looks very good. There is a lot of details put in this game. Cars looks wonderful. Missions are really good. Gameplay is much better than GTA. 10 from me!
  96. natty637
    Oct 16, 2016
    6
    Not a bad game. Pros without a doubt are great story and characters. Really liked the one part where this game connects to it's predecessor. The biggest con for me with this game was lack of additional side quests after completing the main story, which offered little replay incentive. Still recommend giving this game a chance.
  97. Tagirix
    Jul 3, 2016
    10
    I've rebeaten this game a few times and it says everything. You will experience very fun gameplay, you will definitely like both art and soundtrack, and the story will make you addictive. I'm looking forward to play Mafia III and am very hyped about it. If you haven't not played this game yet, I don't know who you are and why you're reading this short review instead of purchasing the game.
  98. EgoSum
    Feb 28, 2019
    1
    The game that ruined the classic rock-and-roll and the "stylized" Mafia's stories. With checkpoints.
    -----------------------
    After getting out of the slammer, I decided to make some bucks. 1951, the world has changed, cars have changed, rock-and-roll, happy chicks on the streets, everything seemed to be JUST fine. I made ~ 4000 bucks at Bruski's then I decided to tune my Cossack. Spent    The game that ruined the classic rock-and-roll and the "stylized" Mafia's stories. With checkpoints.
    -----------------------
    After getting out of the slammer, I decided to make some bucks. 1951, the world has changed, cars have changed, rock-and-roll, happy chicks on the streets, everything seemed to be JUST fine. I made ~ 4000 bucks at Bruski's then I decided to tune my Cossack. Spent all my f***ing money on this. So, I returned to Bruski's for another extremely boooring round of crashing cars. After that, I went to Vangel's to buy some fine clothes for the evening because Joe told me so. I bought the most expensive suit then, I saw a Potomac Indian parked on the streets. "Nice car for my collection", I said, "I must have one of these". So, I smashed its window and suddenly, out of nowhere, a police car SPAWNED. Evidently, I ran using horrible driving mechanics then, they caught me. I resisted arrest because, I didn't want my soiree spoiled by some goddamn street patrol, SPAWNED OUT OF NOWHERE. They started to fire, I started to fire, they won. Game reloaded. From Chapter's 7 start. ALL my extremely precious time wasted for nothing, because the idiots from 2K Czech decided to implement the worst save system that exists in the Universe, THE CHECKPOINT, in such an atrocious manner. For this particular kind of idiots, it simply doesn't matter. Your time and your patience. It matters more spreading their stupid faces around Empire Bay in 150 locations.
    Uninstalled it with light-speed. And the longest finger.

    It'll take many rotations of Pluto around the Sun until the games developers will jettison such horrible, horrendous, atrocious, despicable save game system, the checkpoint. Your stupid game crashes, the goddamn power outage again, the player wants to pee or poo, the player wants to smoke a cigarette, the player wants to go to bed because it's goddamn 3 o'clock in the morning... the player wants to reload the game from HIS/HER last save, NOT YOURS.
    The player wants to spam the F5 key every 5s (reloading the guns in your stupid 3rd person shooter is the same, IF you didn't notice!!!) because he/she GAVE YOU MONEY. Real ones, from their bank cards, NOT from crashing cars at Bruski's.
    The player wants to play your stupid game in HIS/HER OWN WAY, NOT YOURS.

    PS: Yeah, yeah, spare me about babbling nonsense "the system could be abused". With this kind of "creative" thinking, it'll take very short time until some "brilliant" developer (like yourself) will consider that "reloading the gun after few shots fired" will also "abuse the system".

    PS = "Post-scriptum" NOT some antiquated piece of hardware.    … Expand
  99. Ilya_
    Nov 24, 2018
    10
    Мафия II является пожалуй лучшей частью серии. Харизматичный Вито Скалетта попадая за воровство на войну и пройдя ее возвращается домой и мы продолжаем его историю.
    Сама игра подобна персонажу - в ней много идеального. В игре есть "плюшки" которые подпитывают интерес. Сразу хочу сказать, что я не играл в Мафию i, но меня удивили такие фишки как добавление машины в розыск, подделывание    Мафия II является пожалуй лучшей частью серии. Харизматичный Вито Скалетта попадая за воровство на войну и пройдя ее возвращается домой и мы продолжаем его историю.
    Сама игра подобна персонажу - в ней много идеального. В игре есть "плюшки" которые подпитывают интерес. Сразу хочу сказать, что я не играл в Мафию i, но меня удивили такие фишки как добавление машины в розыск, подделывание номерных знаков, персонализация и сама атмосфера игры с её радио, машинами, городом создает не малое погружение.
    Я рекомендую купить игру и заявляю, что она того стоит.    … Expand
  100. Sentrien
    May 21, 2020
    10
    I played this game in 2019 and I have to say it is GREAT!!! its my favourite game I ever played.
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Awards & Rankings

56
#56 Best PC Game of 2010
8
#8 Most Discussed PC Game of 2010
6
#6 Most Shared PC Game of 2010

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 46 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 35 out of 46
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 46
  3. Negative: 2 out of 46
  1. Video Game Talk
    Jan 12, 2011
    70
    The combination of the ancient control mechanics, odd pacing and lack of real world entertainment drag the game down and seriously decreased my enjoyment of Mafia II. Still, it's worth a playthrough if you just adore mafia games and have a solid PC build to take it on.
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  2. Game Chronicles
    Dec 20, 2010
    97
    I walked into my experience of Mafia II with no real expectations other than hearing my colleague's praise. What I walked away with after playing through the story was a sense of awe and amazement that I haven't had since Alan Wake.
    Read full review
  3. PC Format
    Dec 20, 2010
    81
    A well-rendered world, with a well-realised story, though without as much actual gaming as we'd hoped there'd be. [Issue#244, p.81]
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