User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 464 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 38 out of 464
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  1. Aug 24, 2010
    10
    Having already marathon played this game, I can say that it is not a GTA game, but still great. These negative reviewers repeatedly complain about this game's linear nature and lack of sub-missions, but (because I began playing the game knowing it was a linear action title) I was very pleased with it. In Grand Theft Auto games, you are given many activities to do - but none of them areHaving already marathon played this game, I can say that it is not a GTA game, but still great. These negative reviewers repeatedly complain about this game's linear nature and lack of sub-missions, but (because I began playing the game knowing it was a linear action title) I was very pleased with it. In Grand Theft Auto games, you are given many activities to do - but none of them are very refined. In Mafia II, the opposite is true. Shooting is very satisfying, the cars are fantastic simulations, and the game - particularly the cutscenes - looks amazing. This game is much shorter than GTA at around 12 hours, but the action is much more focused. Expand
  2. Aug 27, 2010
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is my favorite game of 2010..the plot is so amazingly crafted it's probably the best story i have ever heard from a video game (heavy rain aside) with henry being a rat, Joe almost turning on you, you going to prison, your mama dying, and ESPECIALLY when Joe got whacked at the end. my jaw hit the ground at that part. But this is not an open world game which is a shame but the story line is amazing with great gameplay (gunplay fistfighting, ETC) amazing graphics and an engaging storyline i could not put the controller down the whole time i was playing this.....But the game is short with a time of 14 hours but worth every penny BUY MAFIA 2!!!!!! Expand
  3. Aug 27, 2010
    10
    As I anticipated, Mafia II is terribly underrated by IGN and the likes. Yet again I find myself in complete disagreement with the videogame critic "establishment". It's sad to me that, a) this game is compared to GTA and RDR, and b) those games were so highly rated to begin with. GTA and RDR have open worlds filled with lots of boring and repetitive stuff to do, while the missionsAs I anticipated, Mafia II is terribly underrated by IGN and the likes. Yet again I find myself in complete disagreement with the videogame critic "establishment". It's sad to me that, a) this game is compared to GTA and RDR, and b) those games were so highly rated to begin with. GTA and RDR have open worlds filled with lots of boring and repetitive stuff to do, while the missions themselves were unvaried and , well, not fun. Not to mention that the gunplay required no skill and made combat almost instantly repetitive. Mafia II is a different game altogether. It's purpose is to tell a STELLAR "crime drama" story and put the player in excellent action sequences along the way. Yes, the driving is often unnecessary and "filler", but the action sequences in Mafia II absolutely destroy anything that GTA managed to cobble together. I didn't finish GTA IV and RDR because I got bored. Mafia II is a game that I think, frankly, appeals to a more mature gamer who's been around the block and appreciates the subtle details in shooting sequences that make them standout from those of other games. When bullets hit walls, glass, or fences, they look like they are hitting with force and doing damage. Cover deteriorates......something that every shooter should have in place these days. I love the way concrete crumbles and dust shoots out of the walls. I love the "duck and dodge" animations of the characters when under fire, both on the run and behind cover. The sound and music are superb. The set pieces are awesome. The voice acting is excellent. The atmosphere is perfect. This is a game for people like me who enjoy underrated games with big hearts - like Kane and Lynch. "Underdog games", I call 'em. These games have flaws, but you can see what the developers were shooting for and as a hardcore, mature gamer - you love them for it. I give it a 10 not because it's perfect (it's not), but because it does so much (so well) that other games with bigger names and bigger budgets never even attempt. Expand
  4. Aug 29, 2010
    10
    Way better than the first. One of the best GTA-esque games I've played in a while. It's a bit linear but it's a lot of fun, the graphics are great and the controls are really good.
  5. Aug 30, 2010
    10
    Most likely the best gangster game that has been made to date in terms of overall quality. The characters are incredibly enjoyable and the relationships border on legitimately heartfelt in terms of believability.. THE CARS: My favorite part about the first mafia was the believable performance of the cars and this game delivers with more powerful vehicles and some badass customizationMost likely the best gangster game that has been made to date in terms of overall quality. The characters are incredibly enjoyable and the relationships border on legitimately heartfelt in terms of believability.. THE CARS: My favorite part about the first mafia was the believable performance of the cars and this game delivers with more powerful vehicles and some badass customization possibilities. Storytelling is fantastic and the linear nature of the game should be forgiven due to how well it is written and flows. I have never been so happy that I didn't have to choose one of six poorly developed possible outcomes. Then later realized that there was in fact 3 possible outcomes for the given situation that were so subtly implied that I had no idea they were possible. Lastly, if you get 50 of the most beautiful Playboy centerfolds from the era and are collectible throughout the game, I would say that they are worth $50 by them selves. My. God. So if you are wondering if this game is a worthwhile purchase beyond the rental envelope, I say pick it up and let me know if you are disappointed. Expand
  6. Sep 5, 2010
    10
    This game is AWESOME! Do not listen to the low reviews, it's just that most people compare the game to GTA 4 (Which is not) and it has a life of it's own. If you play the game thinking "i want to see if it's better than GTA" then STOP now and don't play. The game is nothing like GTA and I am sure that the DEVS were also thinking the same thing when they made it. The game is amazing; fromThis game is AWESOME! Do not listen to the low reviews, it's just that most people compare the game to GTA 4 (Which is not) and it has a life of it's own. If you play the game thinking "i want to see if it's better than GTA" then STOP now and don't play. The game is nothing like GTA and I am sure that the DEVS were also thinking the same thing when they made it. The game is amazing; from the Mob-style shoot outs to the great acting. It is an epic game! Expand
  7. Aug 28, 2010
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Frankly fees is very good and the story is also good
    And control is fine, but why can not the hero to jump me anywhere?
    And in some cases there is a comment in the picture for less than n seconds!!!
    And the police if Tardek can kill you easily!!!
    And fees the city is very sweet and beautiful ...
    Were supposed to abolish the system or serial or serial sections!
    Because this game is not a real film or series!
    But in the last game is good and worth is 10/10
    by / adil khojah - from saudi arabia ...
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  8. Sep 2, 2010
    10
    For those of you considering this game don't let some of the lower scores fool you. They are skewing the overall rating and it's unjustified. This is a very good game. It is not glitchy as some have complained. The graphics are great, the storyline is fun and the music and radio news/ads are entertaining. The main game may be short especially if you attempt to speed through it BUT, PS3For those of you considering this game don't let some of the lower scores fool you. They are skewing the overall rating and it's unjustified. This is a very good game. It is not glitchy as some have complained. The graphics are great, the storyline is fun and the music and radio news/ads are entertaining. The main game may be short especially if you attempt to speed through it BUT, PS3 users get extra downloadable content with extra missions and they have just announced more downloadable content coming out Sept 7th thatt will virtually double the number of missions in the game (as well as add leaderboards etc.). I know some will complain that at $9.99 a pop downloadable content is a way to pull more money out of you after you have already bought the main game. I see it as a choice. If you like the main game then you see the add on content as a way to extend the time you can spend with it. For those that choose to rent, you will miss out on allot. Expand
  9. 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
  10. Jan 22, 2011
    8
    Mafia II may be disappointing for the things that it doesn't do right: limited replay value, a short narrative, and sometimes touchy mechanics. However, for the things it does deliver on it delivers big time, the shooting is great fun, the story is awesome, the game looks great, and the action is incredibly satisfying. If there were more replay value and more options for shooting, Mafia IIMafia II may be disappointing for the things that it doesn't do right: limited replay value, a short narrative, and sometimes touchy mechanics. However, for the things it does deliver on it delivers big time, the shooting is great fun, the story is awesome, the game looks great, and the action is incredibly satisfying. If there were more replay value and more options for shooting, Mafia II would be the king. Until then, it is mildly disappointing, but a blast none the less. Expand
  11. Mar 11, 2017
    9
    Nice graphics, good temporary music, an interesting story. This was way before Mafia III ruined this franchise. The shootouts in this game can be very hard, especially since there are not many checkpoints, but if you succeed they are very satisfying. There is no auto-aim so it's up to you to proof how good you are. The oldtimer cars are a bit difficult to handle and there are not many sideNice graphics, good temporary music, an interesting story. This was way before Mafia III ruined this franchise. The shootouts in this game can be very hard, especially since there are not many checkpoints, but if you succeed they are very satisfying. There is no auto-aim so it's up to you to proof how good you are. The oldtimer cars are a bit difficult to handle and there are not many side missions but if you don't expect a GTA-style game you will enjoy this great game for sure. And you can always play the missions again after you finished the game. Expand
  12. Sep 26, 2021
    8
    The best mafia game out there, the first part might had a better story but this one got a better protaginist & characters, missions and plot twists, dialog and music cars and vibes, yet not the npc’s or the police
  13. Aug 26, 2010
    9
    I'm not sure what all the people with negative reviews were expecting. I'm going to try to list my take on the game.

    The story is linear and there are no side quests. But the first Mafia was like this. It's a game and it's trying to tell a story, and it's a pretty good one. Unfortunately there is currently no free ride mode as in the first Mafia. This essentially means that hunting down
    I'm not sure what all the people with negative reviews were expecting. I'm going to try to list my take on the game.

    The story is linear and there are no side quests. But the first Mafia was like this. It's a game and it's trying to tell a story, and it's a pretty good one. Unfortunately there is currently no free ride mode as in the first Mafia. This essentially means that hunting down the centerfolds and wanted posters and exploring the city must happen in mission. Which is totally fine. The only thing that sucks is that the current save mode, with saves only occuring at mission check points. It would be nice to have a save point you could go to, to save your progress (guns and clothes).

    The centerfold collectibles are far more interesting than item crates (JC2), and shooting pigeons (GTA IV). For some people they may want to actually find all 50. And how much "Extra" crap do you really need to do? Just Cause 2 is full of extra crap, so much that the actual storyline missions are only ok.

    The graphics are beautiful. And in the cut scenes the vehicles and clothing of your character are in the exact state they were before the cut scene (new outfits, bullet holes in car, etc.)

    The radio station rocks. The action can be intense. And for anyone who's mission isn't to race through the chapters as quickly as possible if you start a few gun battles with police you can get automatic weapons right away! I really enjoy this game. And my only qualm is the current save system as I'd like to be able to save my status after getting new guns and messing with the police. A longer story might be nice as well, but hopefully there'll be some decent DLC's to fill in the gaps.
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  14. Aug 26, 2010
    9
    Unlike other sandbox games, Mafia II is all about a linear narrative. It doesn't have side-quests or activites, but the game itself is so good it doesn't need them. You won't sink in hundreds of hours with this like you did with GTA IV or Red Dead Redemption, but the time you do spend playing will be nothing short of gaming craftsmanship. Mafia II features one of the best stories in allUnlike other sandbox games, Mafia II is all about a linear narrative. It doesn't have side-quests or activites, but the game itself is so good it doesn't need them. You won't sink in hundreds of hours with this like you did with GTA IV or Red Dead Redemption, but the time you do spend playing will be nothing short of gaming craftsmanship. Mafia II features one of the best stories in all gaming. At the end of the day, this a great game that everyone should at least try. Expand
  15. Aug 25, 2010
    10
    Mafia 2 is not trying to be GTA, you must know that going in or you will be disappointed. Mafia 2 is a much more linear, hands on experience for the players that only want story, sure, you can run around town, but the options are limited. It has a great story, enjoy it of that. If you're like MAINEiac then you must only want a rocket launcher and a crowd to shoot it at, Mafia 2 doesn'tMafia 2 is not trying to be GTA, you must know that going in or you will be disappointed. Mafia 2 is a much more linear, hands on experience for the players that only want story, sure, you can run around town, but the options are limited. It has a great story, enjoy it of that. If you're like MAINEiac then you must only want a rocket launcher and a crowd to shoot it at, Mafia 2 doesn't give you that, it gives you a compelling story with above average voice acting. Expand
  16. Aug 27, 2010
    9
    First off, I'm a huge fan of Mafia 1. If anyone has played it they would understand what to expect in Mafia 2 and respect that. Its all about a great Story Line. Although I don't think this story was as great as mafia 1, its still very well written. I would have to agree with "I_Like_Games" in regards to the save option or free roam mode. Other things I would have liked to see in a "MAFIA"First off, I'm a huge fan of Mafia 1. If anyone has played it they would understand what to expect in Mafia 2 and respect that. Its all about a great Story Line. Although I don't think this story was as great as mafia 1, its still very well written. I would have to agree with "I_Like_Games" in regards to the save option or free roam mode. Other things I would have liked to see in a "MAFIA" game, are some melee weapons (Bats, brass knuckles) and some car bombs. Its a great game and I recommend it to anyone who wants to play a solid game with a great story, Not the trigger happy people who don't care much about a story. Expand
  17. Aug 26, 2010
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. i had a lot of fun playing it last night, it is just amazing looking, one of the best out there. not so much to do in the city, but i never expected this to be gta. Expand
  18. Aug 31, 2010
    10
    Mafia II is a fun game, but there are others with similar gameplay that are much better. Fans of the mafia theme shouldnâ
  19. Aug 31, 2010
    8
    Let me start by saying I really liked this game. The graphics are pretty great, the cars and the characters faces and bodies are very well detailed. I really like the driving in this game. I'm one of the few people that like GTA mainly because of the driving. I can't stand drifting and the lack of control in GTA. Mafia II is being compared to GTA which I think is a shame. I don'tLet me start by saying I really liked this game. The graphics are pretty great, the cars and the characters faces and bodies are very well detailed. I really like the driving in this game. I'm one of the few people that like GTA mainly because of the driving. I can't stand drifting and the lack of control in GTA. Mafia II is being compared to GTA which I think is a shame. I don't understand why everyone seems to compare all open world games involving crime to GTA. I like Mafia II much better than GTA. The thing that keeps me from giving it a perfect 10 is the poorly placed checkpoints, "weird AI" (by weird I mean sometimes they're amazing and you die and the next time you play the same part you just kill everyone right away), and the ridiculous collectibles. The checkpoints don't really annoy you until you get to the last couple chapters but they're still irritating. What I really hated about this game is that it took me twice the time to collect the collectibles than it did to complete the game on hard difficulty. You have to collect 159 wanted posters and 50 playboys however some playboys are in such ridiculous spots that no one would ever ever look there. They're not just in corners, some are on the other side of town from your objective and you can only get them at a certain point in the game. The wanted posters took forever because you need to collect all 159 and they're hidden in the most ludacris areas on the map. Luckily there are a couple great guides out there but nonetheless, annoying. It feels kind of like the developers realized their game could get beaten in 10 hours and just added in a ton of collectibles to extend the life of the game. All that being said I throughly enjoyed playing the bulk of the game and just touring around the city. My enjoyment stopped when I tried to complete the game 100% and had to get those collectibles. I think the fact that you can't play with your friends or others (in other words no multiplayer) hinders the full experience further but I was never really a fan of the free roam system that is used in GTA which would have probably been the direction a multiplayer would have gone had it been included in Mafia II. My verdict, buy it. Get the regular edition (definetly not the collectors edition like I got, big mistake). Or possibly rent it if you just plan to play the crap out of it and beat it in a couple days. I'm not really a big trophy hunter or a hardcore gamer (I mainly stick to online shooters) but I managed to get the platinum in 25 hours. All in all, it's a great game with some features lacking and some annoying in game problems. None of the negatives take away from the positives. IMO, it's a must play just maybe not a must buy. Btw, this was my first review. Feel free to leave comments and please rate helpful or not Expand
  20. Aug 27, 2010
    9
    Kudos to the dev team, this is a fantastic game. You can tell they spent alot of time doing their research. From the WWII radio news to the streets, they worked hard to capture this moment in American history. From the dialog to the minor details, you can see the hard work these guys put in. In my platyhrough you can see the attention to detail for the time period. This is not GTA, norKudos to the dev team, this is a fantastic game. You can tell they spent alot of time doing their research. From the WWII radio news to the streets, they worked hard to capture this moment in American history. From the dialog to the minor details, you can see the hard work these guys put in. In my platyhrough you can see the attention to detail for the time period. This is not GTA, nor shall it be judged on it. This is a mafia crime simulator like no other, you will truly appreciate the final product. Thumbs up, this an experience to be remembered. Expand
  21. Feb 26, 2012
    8
    This game is fantastic! I absolutely loved it!! The graphics were a bit ugly in my opinion, and it took awhile to get a fully understanding on how the game works and functions, but this game was gripping. I loved the open-world environment. The story is very good, and this game is totally worth playing!!
  22. May 27, 2012
    9
    This game is amazing, it brings you an open world of the 50's.
    Sure it doesn't have all the great features of an open world game like GTA, but there is still free roaming, amazing graphics and physics and a great world in which you can live the 50's, listen to the radio which talks about various issues throughout the 50's and even WW2 at the beginning of the game, you can go to bars, eat,
    This game is amazing, it brings you an open world of the 50's.
    Sure it doesn't have all the great features of an open world game like GTA, but there is still free roaming, amazing graphics and physics and a great world in which you can live the 50's, listen to the radio which talks about various issues throughout the 50's and even WW2 at the beginning of the game, you can go to bars, eat, get many cars, customize them etc. The only thing that made it get a 9/10 from me is the lack of weapons. There are only a few you can use. But in general this game deserves all the money I spent on it.
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  23. Sep 9, 2010
    8
    its a beatiful game . its very important.very good very very very very good its gta 4 very very very very very very very very very very good very important
  24. Sep 13, 2010
    8
    Mafia II is definitely a title youâ
  25. Sep 20, 2010
    8
    Mafia 2 is a high production piece of work. Granted if you were looking for a GTA open world game, this is not it, but it is one of the best story driven, authentic mafia style games ever made. As I have read from many others this game is full of â
  26. Sep 28, 2010
    8
    A friend was gonna buy this game and he turned me on to buying is to i did. I'm reviewing this game after completing it on hard on my first playthrough as well as replaying certain parts. Got 850 gamerscore played it 10 hours plus. First off, i really enjoyed this game but as i'm sure you know its not a gta sandbox style game but its still worth a purchase. Think of it as mission basedA friend was gonna buy this game and he turned me on to buying is to i did. I'm reviewing this game after completing it on hard on my first playthrough as well as replaying certain parts. Got 850 gamerscore played it 10 hours plus. First off, i really enjoyed this game but as i'm sure you know its not a gta sandbox style game but its still worth a purchase. Think of it as mission based with the option to explore rather than gta 4 when its an open world when you choose to do missions. You play Vito Scaletta who came to america from sicilly in his youth to live in empire bay (NEW YORK) . After growing up with an alchoholic father in a **** house and making only one friend, Joe Barbaro the two pull a heist, vito gets caught, and is given a choice go to Italy to fight in world war II or jail. Fighting in italy serves as a tutorial for pretty much everything except driving and hand to hand fighting and is a good introduction. After coming back in 1945, joe makes a few calls to get you out of the army and the game really begins. The storyline to this game is main draw. Its a typical mobster gta storyline your a small-time crook trying to make your way to the big time (yes its already a cliche) but this game buts a few spins on it and you really won't expect them. The voice over work is fantastic they sound pissed off, upset, happy, drunk and every emotion thats shown in the game. The characters are all really interesting and have lots of personality mainly vito and joe. Vito and Joe work really well as Joe is pretty much with you all the time but hes a complete contrast to vito and some of the conversations in this game were pretty damn funny (Anyone heard Joes chat-up lines?) Even minor characters are interesting and have had as much work as the main characters. The game takes roughly about 10 hours to complete. Its really a linear game but the city is the level in which you do your missions. Another part i really like about this games presentation were the graphics peoples faces on this game were really good, some parts weren't as good like the detail on some of the clothes but buildings, cars and the backdrops were impressive.The music was also very well done it was music from back in the 40s and 50s, its blues, big band, and rock n roll. Best song on the game smokestack lightnin-howlin wolf. Gameplay The gameplay in this is your usual blend of gta style action but with some notable features. Theres a few stealth sequences ( and i do mean a few i think theres only 2 actually) where its basic but i have soft spot for stealth games so it was gonna be good if not simple and easy. The shooting is good and the variety of weapons is good with old fashioned guns and weapons which are split into 4 catagories with 3 weapons in each and it controls well with it being a pretty realistic as bullets won't hit straight on the mark but slightly hover around the center crosshairs. The cover systems no gears of war but it gets the job done(what a short summary of the cover system). Theres hand to hand fighting sequences which on hard were pretty challenging and i found myself really having to concentrate so i didn't die. Though its still pretty basic, its a heavy, weak, block and counter type of fighting but i wasn't expecting it to be virtua fighter. I will say though some of the executions were pretty brutal especially the kick to the nuts.I cried at that part. The driving is also well done its also the first game i've played where the cops actually try to stop you for going 100 MPH. The ai on this game was good on games like gta enemies will reload while in the open but on this game enemies stay tucked in cover waiting for you to stop firing so they can shoot back, pretty realistic. The police on this game are also set up well. Driving a car with a specific license plate, wearing certain clothes, and FINALLY holding a gun in public will make the police try and arrest you ( a bit of realism, you shouldn't walk the streets with an RPG IN YOUR **** HANDS). I found the allies AI was pretty good they'll kill people but not play the game for you though its not as good as bad company 2 (the allies on that game are perfect). Flaws in this game really is it doesn't really invent anything or do anything stellar in the gameplay department and though the storyline is extremely well told and cinematic, kept me pretty much gripped through the whole thing, it was just mission after mission if i had known this before i bought it wouldn't be a problem but i went in expecting this game to be 20+ hours,,,,, maybe thats my fault though. (forgot to mention the playboys, best collectables in a game ever) Expand
  27. Oct 15, 2010
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The graphics are excellent In Grand Theft Auto games, you are given many activities to do - but none of them are very good the story and game play were both good but felt it was a bit short finished the game in 2 days they should of made it a bit .There are alot of negative reviews about the game if you didnâ Expand
  28. Oct 19, 2010
    8
    What can I say, this is a GTA in the 1950s. Its awesome. You collect nude playboy photos and abuse the cops. It genuinely feels like you've been transported to the past. The level of swearing is not harsh, but comical. This is a rad shootem up and hit n run. A.I. is competent. The only downside is that you can't fight hand to hand with women characters. You can only shoot and kill them.What can I say, this is a GTA in the 1950s. Its awesome. You collect nude playboy photos and abuse the cops. It genuinely feels like you've been transported to the past. The level of swearing is not harsh, but comical. This is a rad shootem up and hit n run. A.I. is competent. The only downside is that you can't fight hand to hand with women characters. You can only shoot and kill them. This is sexist. I was really disappointed that in a game where your a raging gunmen, you can do everything but hurt women. This was a political decision on account of the game company to prevent negative attention from sexist "feminists." and moms who buy their kids anything, but get mad when they see violence toward women. What I think should be correct is that the mafia should hurt both genders equally, especially in a game that is basically a nasty sandbox. Mafia delivers the feeling that your a real outlaw and can do whatever you want. I liked it except a few political caveats and disappointment with the game company. If you can't abuse women and men in the next Mafia 3, then I'm not buying. For now, this is an awesome gangster game. Expand
  29. Nov 19, 2010
    9
    This is a great game, but if you expect a perfect game you maybe are going to get a little disapointed.
    The biggest problem with this game was the hype behind it, we all expected a more realistic gangster version of GTA but this is not the case. The World is beatiful,detailed and has a great atmosphere but there is almost no side missions after your done with the campaign. But the great
    This is a great game, but if you expect a perfect game you maybe are going to get a little disapointed.
    The biggest problem with this game was the hype behind it, we all expected a more realistic gangster version of GTA but this is not the case. The World is beatiful,detailed and has a great atmosphere but there is almost no side missions after your done with the campaign. But the great things are this : a fantastic story that is exiting well told and is so good you dont want to stop playing. The gameplay is also good, a traditional third person hide behind cover and then pop out and shoot. The driving i find great but its a love or hate thing. You have a world thats fun to explore, great to look at but there is really not that much to do. The story will take about 10 hours but there is collectables to find. I'm not going to talk much about the story but if you like gangster movies like The Godfather,Goodfellas you will really enjoy it.
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  30. Sep 11, 2011
    8
    i absolutly loved this game the only reason it does not get a 10 from me is because it doesnt have much replay value and once you beat the story there isnt much you can do. saying that though the story in itself is amazing the voice acting is great i was compleatly hooked to this game and could not stop playing it because i wanted to see what happened next and i wanted to get to the nexti absolutly loved this game the only reason it does not get a 10 from me is because it doesnt have much replay value and once you beat the story there isnt much you can do. saying that though the story in itself is amazing the voice acting is great i was compleatly hooked to this game and could not stop playing it because i wanted to see what happened next and i wanted to get to the next mission. one thing you must realize is that this game is not like gta at all except that it has guns and cars but the similarities stop there you cant go into this game expecting gta or you wont like it this game is at least worth a rental if you only plan on playing through it once but if you like it and plan on playing through again defenatly buy it and you wont be dissapointed Expand
  31. Apr 26, 2011
    9
    In my opinion, this game was fantastic. When playing the original Mafia 1, I was desperate to know the answer to this question: Why is this game so terrible? The controls were awkward and there seemed to be a mission that was incredibly impossible to complete with being beheaded. But Mafia II has seemed to repair it's reputation. The controls were so much better and easier to control. TheIn my opinion, this game was fantastic. When playing the original Mafia 1, I was desperate to know the answer to this question: Why is this game so terrible? The controls were awkward and there seemed to be a mission that was incredibly impossible to complete with being beheaded. But Mafia II has seemed to repair it's reputation. The controls were so much better and easier to control. The game has an in-depth story and takes the player through different environments and different weather conditions. Like Grand Theft Auto, it was a fun sandbox game and fingers crossed for Mafia III 's release. Expand
  32. Apr 29, 2011
    8
    I didn't see many of the problems that others report as far as glitches etc. The game was good overall and it delivered what I was hoping for. An enjoyable game to kill the time and relax. The AI are a little dumbed down, the story is ok, but the game is pretty linear. Which is ok. I wasn't expecting the reinvention of the wheel, but I was expecting a decent game that is fun. ItI didn't see many of the problems that others report as far as glitches etc. The game was good overall and it delivered what I was hoping for. An enjoyable game to kill the time and relax. The AI are a little dumbed down, the story is ok, but the game is pretty linear. Which is ok. I wasn't expecting the reinvention of the wheel, but I was expecting a decent game that is fun. It delivered on that front. Worth a try, but maybe a rental before you buy it. Expand
  33. May 5, 2011
    8
    Mafia 2 is a great game has a wonderful taste in Sandbox driving is fun and messing around just to explore is fun to, BUT the game seems to lack on a few things: Black levels, Anti Aliasing, and comparing PS3 version to both Microsoft veriants "XBOX360,GAMES FOR WINDOWS" you will see the lack Mafia 2 suffers in PS3 but overall its a fun game and check out the demo on PSN
  34. Jan 26, 2020
    8
    nice graphics music and story, interesting situations and persons, the epic of mafia's deals is good but short.
  35. Dec 18, 2013
    8
    I liked mafia II a lot. Don't compare it to GTA though, this game is completely linear, even though there is an open world. It plays well and the story keeps you going, the graphics are very good and the world is beautiful and alive. It's just too short, and there's nothing much to do in the world, which is really a pity because there's a lot off work put into the creation off it. And theI liked mafia II a lot. Don't compare it to GTA though, this game is completely linear, even though there is an open world. It plays well and the story keeps you going, the graphics are very good and the world is beautiful and alive. It's just too short, and there's nothing much to do in the world, which is really a pity because there's a lot off work put into the creation off it. And the ending will keep you wanting for more (that's a good and a bad thing). Expand
  36. Sep 1, 2013
    8
    Mafia II isn't a game I thought I would like, but it came and surprised me.
    Starting in 1925 you get to witness the childhood of the main character, Vito Scalleta, born in Sicily before moving to America with his family to start a new life. When Vito turns 18 he is arrested for breaking and entering, but he is given the choice of joining the army or going to prison. The game opens with
    Mafia II isn't a game I thought I would like, but it came and surprised me.
    Starting in 1925 you get to witness the childhood of the main character, Vito Scalleta, born in Sicily before moving to America with his family to start a new life. When Vito turns 18 he is arrested for breaking and entering, but he is given the choice of joining the army or going to prison. The game opens with Vito in WWII Sicily before quickly returning to 1943 USA where the rest of the game takes place. Vita is introduced to a mob family and agrees to help them do their business in return for lots of money and the opportunity that one day he will be accepted into the family.
    The game is not an open world sandbox game but instead an open world 3rd person shooter. Empire City is empty besides a couple of shops and so cant really justify a sandbox game, especially seeing as you have to do the main story to progress time. The shooting mechanics are also fairly basic but it doesn't make the game unenjoyable.
    Mafia II isn't for everyone, but if what you hear impresses you, you may as well try and pick it up for a reasonable price.
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  37. Sep 5, 2013
    8
    Pretty good game, very generic, but the story was pretty dam good. Also a pretty linear game for a sandbox game type; kinda like a getaway game. The graphics were beautiful, however it's beautiful mostly when your driving along the highways/outskirts of the town, as when you're in the city itself, it's more meh than beautiful. Pros- nice looking game, story, characters, driving feelsPretty good game, very generic, but the story was pretty dam good. Also a pretty linear game for a sandbox game type; kinda like a getaway game. The graphics were beautiful, however it's beautiful mostly when your driving along the highways/outskirts of the town, as when you're in the city itself, it's more meh than beautiful. Pros- nice looking game, story, characters, driving feels smooth, solid gameplay mechanics. cons- generic missions, somewhat short game-length, getting killed the second enemy opens fire sometimes, no lasting appeal,(no point as there's nothing to do anyways after beating game). Expand
  38. Jun 12, 2012
    9
    This game is very heavily story based and it works out to near perfection. Cut scenes occur frequently throughout the game to tell the story of Vito Scaletta's life. The gameplay is simple and a lot like Grand Theft Auto. The story, sound, and voice acting of this game is absolutely phenomenal. The driving does get tedious in this game but you end up getting used to it and by the end, youThis game is very heavily story based and it works out to near perfection. Cut scenes occur frequently throughout the game to tell the story of Vito Scaletta's life. The gameplay is simple and a lot like Grand Theft Auto. The story, sound, and voice acting of this game is absolutely phenomenal. The driving does get tedious in this game but you end up getting used to it and by the end, you will be glad that you played this magnificent game. Expand
  39. Jun 3, 2014
    8
    Mafia II is a good game, but its not without flaws. We can start of with the good part and that is, when the credits roll, you feel that the it was worth it. There are two things which holds this game together, The story and the mid-game switch (which Im not gonna spoil). These two things alone really shows how much time that went in to this title. The subtle flirting with the originalMafia II is a good game, but its not without flaws. We can start of with the good part and that is, when the credits roll, you feel that the it was worth it. There are two things which holds this game together, The story and the mid-game switch (which Im not gonna spoil). These two things alone really shows how much time that went in to this title. The subtle flirting with the original Mafia is great, and the world are nicely modeled. My main complaints is about the very rough start. The early missions is nothing else than crap. Prepare yourself to stack boxes, sell gas tickets (terrible) and other boring stuff. The thing is, we all know that they want to get the feeling of starting from square one, but making us bored and frustrated isn't the best idea. These missions could have been much better if you had someone with you telling stories on that gas ticket selling tour but nope, you had to it all by yourself... yawn. This along with a bad AI and bugs makes the game not as good as it could have been. Expand
  40. Jul 8, 2012
    8
    The soundtrack, the story, the voice acting are great. Graphics are quite mediocre You shouldn't play this game for its 'fantastic gameplay' which isn't there to find. The driving is barely 'okay' since you're drifting all the way the game. Now the shooting is even more horrible. It's quite easy making headshots, yet your crosshair is working like it's made by an epileptic. Furthermore,The soundtrack, the story, the voice acting are great. Graphics are quite mediocre You shouldn't play this game for its 'fantastic gameplay' which isn't there to find. The driving is barely 'okay' since you're drifting all the way the game. Now the shooting is even more horrible. It's quite easy making headshots, yet your crosshair is working like it's made by an epileptic. Furthermore, the game is awesome. I love that classic 40s - 50s feeling (though they could've gone a little bit more to the dark side of the mafia in which there is more torturing and horrible story play), and as I mentioned earlier, the story is great. Expand
  41. Oct 17, 2012
    9
    Got this game on release date and loved it. Very good free roam, shooter. Remains one of my favorite games of all time. Must play for everyone. Storyline similar to the film Goodfellas
  42. Jul 2, 2013
    8
    Let's start with the positives. The graphics are stunning, the city design is one of the best seen in video games, and on the surface, the game feels very immersive. The 1940s and 1950s vibes feel very real and the contemporary soundtrack works very well.

    The story is good, albeit very linear and at times unnecessarily brutal. I even liked the action parts in the game. I'm generally
    Let's start with the positives. The graphics are stunning, the city design is one of the best seen in video games, and on the surface, the game feels very immersive. The 1940s and 1950s vibes feel very real and the contemporary soundtrack works very well.

    The story is good, albeit very linear and at times unnecessarily brutal. I even liked the action parts in the game. I'm generally very bad at shooters but enjoyed the shooting scenes in this game a lot.

    The negatives: The game is very short by modern standards. This is even more underlined by the fact that there aren't any sidequests and outside the main story, there is hardly anything to do in the game (you can rob shops, steal and sell cars and buy clothes, but that's pretty much it). Like I wrote earlier, the game feels very immersive on the surface level, but beyond that not at all. You can't really interact with the world in any meaningful way (again, outside the main story).

    Mafia II was for me an extremely enjoyable game, but ultimately it still left me a bit disappointed. There was potential for so much more. The designers obviously made a choice to create a very linear game (kind of in a Final Fantasy XIII-esque way), but oh boy what a masterpiece this could've been with more sandbox elements added to it.
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  43. Sep 28, 2013
    9
    In Mafia II you are Vito Scaletta, this game takes place during the 1940s, Vito joins the mafia and along with his best friend Joe, they try to make a name for themselves in the big city. The gameplay is solid but the shooting can be a little clunky. The soundtrack is amazing and the envirenments as well. The story is one of the best stories you can find in an open world game. This game isIn Mafia II you are Vito Scaletta, this game takes place during the 1940s, Vito joins the mafia and along with his best friend Joe, they try to make a name for themselves in the big city. The gameplay is solid but the shooting can be a little clunky. The soundtrack is amazing and the envirenments as well. The story is one of the best stories you can find in an open world game. This game is really underrated and diserves a sequel. Expand
  44. Nov 19, 2013
    8
    Grandisimo juego, accion, innovación y humor negro en un juego con una trama bélica y de rol antiguo, sobre la guerra, represión...etc. Innovación: Muy pocos juegos consiguen innovar con una trama que engancha y un modo de juego que representa esa época. Sonido: Doblaje sobresaliente y sonido ambiente muy bueno, excelente trabajo. Gráficos: Me sorprendio gratamente los graficos de esteGrandisimo juego, accion, innovación y humor negro en un juego con una trama bélica y de rol antiguo, sobre la guerra, represión...etc. Innovación: Muy pocos juegos consiguen innovar con una trama que engancha y un modo de juego que representa esa época. Sonido: Doblaje sobresaliente y sonido ambiente muy bueno, excelente trabajo. Gráficos: Me sorprendio gratamente los graficos de este juego, muy logrados y detallados, geniales. Jugabilidad, el juego supera las 20 horas facilmente, es entretenido y tiene misiones variables. Conclusión: Un gran juego, que no deja de tener algunos fallos sin importancia pero que lo convierte en un sandbox a tener muy en cuenta. Lo recomiendo totalmente. Expand
  45. Jan 11, 2014
    8
    I downloaded this for Playstation Plus back in September.
    This game is linear that is my only problem with the game. Except for that this game is amazing, The story is one of the most Interesting and Entertaining, The 1940s is a great time period, so is the 1950s.
    The characters are also excellent, Vito and Joe are definitely in the top 10 best characters of the 360/PS3 era. If they
    I downloaded this for Playstation Plus back in September.
    This game is linear that is my only problem with the game. Except for that this game is amazing, The story is one of the most Interesting and Entertaining, The 1940s is a great time period, so is the 1950s.
    The characters are also excellent, Vito and Joe are definitely in the top 10 best characters of the 360/PS3 era.
    If they make the story longer and a few extra side missions in Mafia III plus picking up from the ending of Mafia II, the sequel will be a masterpiece.

    8/10
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  46. Mar 22, 2016
    8
    Graphics: 7.8 Sound: 8.0 Gameplay: 8.0 Fun/Story: 8.2

    A nice game, with a great storytelling and narrative, describing very well the mafia scene. Perhaps it deserves more character customize. The graphics are ok, with some technical failures like framerate, some blurry textures and screen tearing.
  47. Jun 28, 2015
    8
    Mafia II is a great game with only slight flaws like not being able to jump and very little activities in the open world. Aside from the petty let downs, this game has an amazing story, great graphics, and spectacular characters. This is a must get.
  48. Nel
    Nov 30, 2016
    8
    Mafia II is an open world game, that feels and acts like GTA, but it is more linear, and not as eventful as the GTA games. However, the game does not lack content, there is several 40 plus hours to enjoy, and more if you are going in for the achivements. The game feels and looks awesome
  49. Oct 21, 2020
    9
    Fantastic!

    "You must have 75 characters."
    "You must have 75 characters."
    "You must have 75 characters."
  50. Sep 8, 2018
    8
    What Kind of Adventure?

    Action/Adventure/Third Person Shooter. Was it fun? Yes, I didn’t know what to expect with this game but it wound up being a very fun experience. Are there any similar games? Its a GTA clone. Favorite Character? I guess, Vito the main character. He seemed like a good guy who grew up poor and just found the best way to make it. Favorite
    What Kind of Adventure?

    Action/Adventure/Third Person Shooter.

    Was it fun?

    Yes, I didn’t know what to expect with this game but it wound up being a very fun experience.

    Are there any similar games?

    Its a GTA clone.

    Favorite Character?

    I guess, Vito the main character. He seemed like a good guy who grew up poor and just found the best way to make it.

    Favorite World/Stage?

    I really enjoyed the 12th chapter where you, go to the loan shark, buy the drugs, you’re looking for a quick buck. When I first saw the scene where they were talking about buying the drugs and selling them for a quick profit. I knew things would go wrong and it ended up being an interesting chapter as that played out.

    Would you play it again?

    No, probably not but now I’m excited to play Mafia 3.

    Any Complaints?

    I know it was part of the story but I didn’t like that my house burnt down. I was really excited about the idea of becoming a Mafia king pin but that didn’t really pan out.

    How many hours did you play it?

    It took me about 12 hours to beat the whole game and it was enjoyable through out.
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  51. Mar 8, 2019
    8
    Mafia II is a open world with linear story video game developed by 2K Czech and published by 2K Games. The game is set in 1940s-1950s Empire Bay, a fictional city based on New York City, released in 2010.

    + Great Story + Good Characters + Good Music + Good Physics (with destructible environment and some good small details) - Boring and Empty City (with nothing do in this open world)
    Mafia II is a open world with linear story video game developed by 2K Czech and published by 2K Games. The game is set in 1940s-1950s Empire Bay, a fictional city based on New York City, released in 2010.

    + Great Story
    + Good Characters
    + Good Music
    + Good Physics (with destructible environment and some good small details)
    - Boring and Empty City (with nothing do in this open world)
    - Clunky Shooting and Fighting Animations

    My Score: 8.9/10
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  52. Jun 2, 2020
    8
    Mafia II
    ..................................................................
  53. Apr 25, 2018
    9
    Is a great game, the story is great, the graphics are really beautiful, the game captures you and you cant stop playing until you finish, the only thing that i can complain about is tha when you finish the game you have to restart because you`re not allowed to play in the open world.
  54. Sep 15, 2019
    9
    Bad ass game! Loved it! If you enjoy Mafia, Gangster movies then you will very much enjoy this.
  55. Feb 12, 2022
    10
    Отличное исполнение. Графика нормальная.
    Очень нравится сюжетная линия и постановка диалогов.
    К сожалению Мафия 3 не сумела даже на не много приблизиться ко второй части, ни в графике, ни в сценарии ни в постановке диалогов.
    Отличное исполнение. Графика нормальная.
    Очень нравится сюжетная линия и постановка диалогов.
    К сожалению Мафия 3 не сумела даже на не много приблизиться ко второй части, ни в графике, ни в сценарии ни в постановке диалогов.
  56. Aug 7, 2020
    9
    This Game is awesome and I loved every second of it glad I finally played it even all these years later it's still worth it. The Carachters are Incredible and the voice acting is awesome the story is Top Notch and the gameplay is Mediocre sadly I hope sometime in the future we get a Remake of this game like we're getting with Mafia The City Of Lost Heaven
  57. Mar 1, 2020
    9
    Lindo jogo! Final foda, deixa todos com a pulga atras da orelha. Mafia não foi feito para ser comparado com GTA... Apesar das similaridades, o máfia é muito mais serio e tenta ficar mais proximo da realidade. Lutas mano a mano estilo boxe, carros classicos com um controle muito bom. Personagens cativantes. A policia é um pouco burra.. fora isso, show!

    História: 10 Som: 10
    Lindo jogo! Final foda, deixa todos com a pulga atras da orelha. Mafia não foi feito para ser comparado com GTA... Apesar das similaridades, o máfia é muito mais serio e tenta ficar mais proximo da realidade. Lutas mano a mano estilo boxe, carros classicos com um controle muito bom. Personagens cativantes. A policia é um pouco burra.. fora isso, show!

    História: 10
    Som: 10
    Jogabilidade: 9
    Gráficos:10
    Diversão: 10
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  58. Apr 11, 2020
    10
    For me this is the best game I've ever played. You just fall in love with the characters from the start and have the same feelings as Vito as the story progresses. 10/10 amazing can't rate it highly enough.
  59. Apr 22, 2020
    10
    Simplesmente o melhor jogo da geração, um mapa aberto lindo, mil coisas para se fazer, estória pesada...
  60. Mar 6, 2021
    9
    One of the best experiences I've had in my life. The people passing by while walking on the road are almost alive. The highlight of his story is really striking, especially that machete death scene. The backstory of all the characters somehow tells about them. Legend in mechanics. The cons for me are graphics and some animations. I think other than that, this game is a masterpiece.
  61. Jul 3, 2020
    9
    One of my favorite games of all time - and one of the few I've replayed.

    Has an excellent story, with moments you don't expect and moments that make you laugh. Environment is neat - you can't beat 40s-50s NYC. Cars, food and clothing are realistic for the time - don't expect a hypercar or a fancy disco suit. I enjoyed that cars got dirty, and could run out of gas - that's how the real
    One of my favorite games of all time - and one of the few I've replayed.

    Has an excellent story, with moments you don't expect and moments that make you laugh. Environment is neat - you can't beat 40s-50s NYC. Cars, food and clothing are realistic for the time - don't expect a hypercar or a fancy disco suit. I enjoyed that cars got dirty, and could run out of gas - that's how the real world works. Wasn't a full "open-world" game, but wasn't designed as such either.

    Only negatives were a few bugs and glitches along the way, but that is acceptable. Playboy collectibles were a plus as well!
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  62. Sep 2, 2020
    8
    After the genius first game, Mafia II had a hard job to keep up. The game did it! The story is terrific, gameplay and characters rule and graphics and sound are wonderful. The open world is atmospheric too but in the end the game becomes a bit repetitive, because of the linear missions.
  63. Nov 12, 2020
    9
    this game has an amazing storyline and amazing gameplay. this is one of the best mafia storylines even trumping its predecessor mafia I. the gameplay and shooting are amazing and it has amazing set pieces
  64. Aug 7, 2022
    8
    um dos melhores jogos de mundo aberto que eu joguei porém é bem limitado o que se dá pra fazer no mundo, mas um dos pontos que eu gostei demais foi que me lembrou bastante o filme The Godfather. A história não é memoravel mas é bacaninha
  65. Jun 7, 2021
    8
    I'm late to the party having only now gone back to play this as I work on some of my PS3 backlog and I have to say I'm thoroughly enjoying it.

    Anyone who is expecting a GTA alike will be sorely disappointed but would also be missing the point. OK, there's a big open world with a massive map to explore if you feel the need but this game is a narrative driven, essentially linear
    I'm late to the party having only now gone back to play this as I work on some of my PS3 backlog and I have to say I'm thoroughly enjoying it.

    Anyone who is expecting a GTA alike will be sorely disappointed but would also be missing the point. OK, there's a big open world with a massive map to explore if you feel the need but this game is a narrative driven, essentially linear experience. Accept this and you will be in the right mindset.

    I personally think it looks and sounds really good - especially the 50s music. The transformation in the city from winter in the 40s to spring / summer in the 50s is also extremely effective.

    I do concede that it could benefit from some more content and I read speculation that a lot was cut from it to provide DLC packs. All three DLCs are currently still available on the PS Store and while I am unwilling to spend £20+ to get them all I have bought Joe's Adventures which I am looking forward to playing after I complete the main story.

    The hand to hand combat is rudimentary, the gunplay pretty good, the stealth minimal but IMO the driving is really good. I would definitely say this game is a case of the overall is greater than the sum of its parts.
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  66. May 21, 2022
    10
    From my point of view, this game is one of the best action games and not only that, the details in the game and the interesting story and the graphics are amazing as a game that was downloaded on the Playstation 3. It is considered one of the best games of the device deservedly, but it was not one of the best shooting games,But yes, there are some technical errors and it was not a problemFrom my point of view, this game is one of the best action games and not only that, the details in the game and the interesting story and the graphics are amazing as a game that was downloaded on the Playstation 3. It is considered one of the best games of the device deservedly, but it was not one of the best shooting games,But yes, there are some technical errors and it was not a problem for me, but it may be a problem for some Expand
  67. Jan 3, 2023
    10
    Very Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good
  68. Jul 28, 2023
    10
    A fantastic openworld game with an amazing characters and one of the best protagonist of this series of game,the atmosphere is still pretty good,gunplay and car fisics are very awesome...aged very well still worth it to play
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 61 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 40 out of 61
  2. Negative: 2 out of 61
  1. Mafia II's exciting action and uncompromising mob story make for an impressive and violent adventure.
  2. Mafia II is an epic adventure with a story that rivals some of the best mobster movies. Players are brought in to Vito Scaletta's rise in the family ranks through an engaging narrative, intense action sequences, and a well-crafted vintage city setting.
  3. I'm a sucker for a good mob story, but Mafia II's is merely decent.