Mafia II

 Xbox 360
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 751 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 550 out of 751
  2. Mixed: 145 out of 751
  3. Negative: 56 out of 751
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  1. pots555
    Sep 11, 2010
    10
    This is why I don't get most of the reviewers out there. Mafia 2 is an absolute blast to play IF you enjoy an amazing story with great characters. The gameplay works very well in every aspect of this game. The driving was the part I enjoyed the most. Different cars have different feels and the town is gorgeous. It took me around 14 hours to complete the game. Sure, I took my time,This is why I don't get most of the reviewers out there. Mafia 2 is an absolute blast to play IF you enjoy an amazing story with great characters. The gameplay works very well in every aspect of this game. The driving was the part I enjoyed the most. Different cars have different feels and the town is gorgeous. It took me around 14 hours to complete the game. Sure, I took my time, but it was worth it. I cannot wait for Mafia III.… Expand
  2. Eternal
    Mar 28, 2011
    9
    The Mafia 2 is way better then Mafia one. I know many people won't agree. Mafia one was unique, but it's hard to be unique in mafia world if there is first game. M2 has great graphic and animation and the feeling you get from the game is amazing. And for those who compare with GTA... please, stop doing that.
  3. humzababri
    Oct 15, 2010
    10
    1. This game is not GTA(which is a good IMHO). GTA/RDR/etc are completely different games. I liked both of those games, but I had a lot more fun playing Mafia 2. I'm going to compare it to GTA because that seems to be the popular counter example on the internet, and we all know the internets never lie. And someone needs to stand up for a good game where the moronicons come out of the wood1. This game is not GTA(which is a good IMHO). GTA/RDR/etc are completely different games. I liked both of those games, but I had a lot more fun playing Mafia 2. I'm going to compare it to GTA because that seems to be the popular counter example on the internet, and we all know the internets never lie. And someone needs to stand up for a good game where the moronicons come out of the wood work screaming "NO BLIND FIRE, NO EUPHORIA!!! NO 100 HOURS GAME SUCKS MY B's I GIVE IT A SCORE OF TOO!!" What Mafia 2 tries to do, is to put the player in an immersive, realistic environment + story/narative + fun gameplay = Great Game! The city, and the people in it, are a set piece more than anything else. It is highly detailed and visually/audibly rich. The voice acting is great, the story is great, and the movement feels real. As a result you care about your character and the people around him and the actions he takes. It's linear, but it's good(by the by GTA IV and RDR are linear, with passable story lines). The characters are rich and serious, which is refreshing after all the rockstar games were every character is a trite pulp fiction type who makes 1000 pop references a second. There's really no free roam or anything like that, although you can do whatever you want in on the way to missions/home. I just mean there's not a lot of side content, and consequently the game is shorter. However, that being said, since the story missions were so tight, I had a lot more fun playing this game then most. Less messenger boy, chores to do. I think why I like this game the most, is that it is a little more realistic. Gun fights are quick and deadly, car crashes are the same. And maybe it's just me, but in GTA IV, I wasn't even worried about cops until 4 stars, but in mafia 2, I find myself super tensed up when the cops get involved. It actually takes a level of skill to lose them. This is a really good game. I like the cinematic look and feel, I like the game play. GTA IV(and by extension all open world games) is a totally different animal. That being said. You get more for your money with GTA, but If I think back, I actually had more fun playing Mafia 2, and consequently, think it's a better game. Graphics, open world, linear/non linear, blind fire, etc doesn't matter. If you have fun playing a game, then it's a good game. I had more fun in Mafia 2 then GTA IV… Expand
  4. spadenx
    Nov 29, 2011
    9
    This game is great (I havent played the original Mafia so im not biased). The story is good from start to finish and it ends perfectly. The game looks great but does feature the occasional bug and glitch. The melee combat is a little poor but the gun play is great and fun to play. I enjoyed it a lot.
  5. Swimming_MANGO
    Dec 31, 2011
    8
    2K Czech did a fantastic job on this one. Mafia 2 is by far my favourite third person open world game to date. It is perhaps the perfect blend of linear game play, an open world, intriguing story, and characters that feel human. To describe the game play, the best way it can be described would be to say its an open world similar to a game such most Rockstar titles, but without an abundance2K Czech did a fantastic job on this one. Mafia 2 is by far my favourite third person open world game to date. It is perhaps the perfect blend of linear game play, an open world, intriguing story, and characters that feel human. To describe the game play, the best way it can be described would be to say its an open world similar to a game such most Rockstar titles, but without an abundance of side content, creating linear game play. Some would view this as a negative to the game, but doing this serves to bring more attention to detail, far less loading scenes, and when there are they're shorter the in GTA, and it pushes the expectation to make a quality game father then filler. There are between 30-40 different vehicles in the game as well (depending on if DLC is purchased, which actually brings it to a total of 45), and a multitude of period appropriate weaponry, including many Mob classics as the original Tommy Gun, and also many World War Two weapons such as the M1 Garand, MP-40, esc... Without a doubt the best part of the game play is that the driving mechanics are stable, and surpass the driving of GTA, and that the character himself DOESN'T CONTROL LIKE A CAR!!! Unlike in any Rockstar game, the characters to not control like a vehicle when you are not in a vehicle, and running around the city.
    The story of Mafia 2 is similar to that of many crime movies, mafia movies which is to say a "rags to riches" story focusing on the exploits of the protagonist Vito Scaletta, and his childhood friend Joe Barbaro. One of the great things about the story of Mafia 2 is that both these characters, and other supporting characters, feel human, which many games try to do but fail because of the circumstances of the games. The story is exceptionally good, paralleling the father of modern mafia stories the Godfather movies in my opinion. The game boasts a fantastic soundtrack of many time period music from Chuck Berry, The Everly Brothers, Dean Martin, Little Richard, Muddy Waters, Buddy Holly & The Crickets, Bing Crosby, Bill Haley & His Comets, The Chordettes, Bo Diddley, Rick Nelson, Eddie Cochran, The Champs, The Drifters, Screamin' Jay Hawkins, The Andrews Sisters, and many more. The music not only fits well with the game play, but also many of these songs showcase "the good life" making mafia 2 feel every bit more authentic, and grand. While on the subject on the sound and audio of the game it should be noted quite humorously that Mafia 2, while not actually being noted for it, has beat the current world record for most F-Bombs in a game which was previously set at 189, and I stopped counting after 200. Some would view that as "overkill" but because of the setting of the game, and the context of the characters its only appropriate to the game. Food for thought.
    The game is also quite good looking. It's definitely not outstanding or ground breaking, but it should be noted that not once did I notice any texture popping, or visual bugs. The game however has very good snow, and rain effects which really come into play during certain levels of the game. Character design is pinpointed to each character's personality precisely as well. An example being the character Joe Barbaro who's body, and appearance mimics his appeal to "the good life." As well as that there are 50 collectable playboy magazines in the game, and each one rewards you with actual images from old playboy magazines (appropriate to the mafia, and thank you 2K for realizing most actual gamers need that stuff). Now while I spoke only of the good, there is some bad. The checkpoint system for most levels is non-existent, as dying puts you a fair distance back in progress. As well as that there are a few minor glitches that I encountered but for the most part are unnoticeable unless your paying very close attention, or play through the game several times. So sum it all up, the game has very little problems, with entertaining game play, a great soundtrack, great controls, and a captivating story. I was able to pick up the game new for $30 in late 2010, so the game is definitely worth the price one would pay today. A must play for anyone interested in a good mafia story.    … Expand
  6. Karimzadeh7
    Oct 8, 2016
    10
    Best story, best gameplay, best graphic
    That's realy great! I played it on pc and xbox 360...This game can win good rewards...I realy love it........!
  7. Shabran
    Sep 5, 2010
    8
    Mafia 2 is the kind of game that you play for the story. Before picking this game up I had it in my head that it was an open world game. This initial thought was wrong and instead I was presented with an experience. This experience consisted of a great story that not many games can hold today. The amount of twists and turns throughout the game is truly a breath of fresh air. Not only doesMafia 2 is the kind of game that you play for the story. Before picking this game up I had it in my head that it was an open world game. This initial thought was wrong and instead I was presented with an experience. This experience consisted of a great story that not many games can hold today. The amount of twists and turns throughout the game is truly a breath of fresh air. Not only does it throw you from place to place but the game manages to make you care (or hate) these characters.

    From a visual standpoint this is an incredibly good effort. Each part of the world looks and feels realistic with props set out all over to make the world as believable as possible. As long as you go into this game not expecting a GTA kind of game then you are going to love the way this game plays out (very unique). However, if you are here to play a GTA game set in the 1940's with a Mafia sensibility then you should look elsewhere.    … Expand
  8. BIGREESE
    Sep 6, 2010
    8
    The game is good! let that be made clear, BUT... i think the reason why i enjoyed it so much is because i am a sucker for a good story and convincing story. the graphics are also great, while the depth of the city is no where near lets say GtA, it really doesnt need to be. It does lack on the gameplay side, it isnt broken or anything, its just pretty flat. So if u are one of those guys whoThe game is good! let that be made clear, BUT... i think the reason why i enjoyed it so much is because i am a sucker for a good story and convincing story. the graphics are also great, while the depth of the city is no where near lets say GtA, it really doesnt need to be. It does lack on the gameplay side, it isnt broken or anything, its just pretty flat. So if u are one of those guys who plays a game for gameplay and gameplay only and who skips the cutscenes, i woundn't waste the $60 on it. But be sure to pick it up somtime.… Expand
  9. crackmonkey
    Oct 20, 2010
    8
    People who purchase this game or compare it to GTA are unfortunately uninformed. The game is not a sandbox based game. It is a linear story with player interaction between cut scenes. Almost like a movie where the player gets to interact. It is a nice change from the typical FPS or sandbox. If you want a good story with 1 or 2 missions in between the scenes this game is for you. If youPeople who purchase this game or compare it to GTA are unfortunately uninformed. The game is not a sandbox based game. It is a linear story with player interaction between cut scenes. Almost like a movie where the player gets to interact. It is a nice change from the typical FPS or sandbox. If you want a good story with 1 or 2 missions in between the scenes this game is for you. If you want to run around sandbox style and kill anything walking or have dozens of side missions this game is not for you. IT IS NOT A GTA STYLE GAME!… Expand
  10. jimbot21
    Jun 16, 2011
    10
    Loved it Mafia 2 deserves so much more than 74. Almost everything about it is superb. The compelling storyline, the awesome characters. Gameplays great it suits the style Mafia 2 offers. The cusomisation of cars is great, something you don't get often in games. Empire Bay is a beautiful city despite being a bit empty. The ending is something different that gives it a fine edge over otherLoved it Mafia 2 deserves so much more than 74. Almost everything about it is superb. The compelling storyline, the awesome characters. Gameplays great it suits the style Mafia 2 offers. The cusomisation of cars is great, something you don't get often in games. Empire Bay is a beautiful city despite being a bit empty. The ending is something different that gives it a fine edge over other games. I hope they make a Mafia 3. They better...… Expand
  11. Theguyoffire
    Nov 18, 2012
    9
    I just wish there was open world in the game. Best part about it is the story. Best story in any sandbox game there ever was.
  12. magee
    Aug 28, 2012
    10
    This Game is super if you loved Mafia 1 you have to play this game. Its different then Gta i love the story telling, yes there is not much to do after you finish game but that was the same with mafia 1 its not a gta clone. GET THIS GAME you wont be dissapointed!
  13. Matty2012
    Oct 19, 2014
    9
    One of the best games ever created. I've been gaming since gaming began, and this game goes down in my top 8 games of all time. The story is great, the gameplay is solid, and the graphics are brilliant and still look brilliant in 2014. It is one of them rare games that makes you feel like your actually there. A very well made solid game. The only thing negative i can say about it is theOne of the best games ever created. I've been gaming since gaming began, and this game goes down in my top 8 games of all time. The story is great, the gameplay is solid, and the graphics are brilliant and still look brilliant in 2014. It is one of them rare games that makes you feel like your actually there. A very well made solid game. The only thing negative i can say about it is the pedestrian AI, they are a bit dumb and not as good as in other open world games like Grand Theft Auto. But thankfully the enemy AI is much better. If you love open world games with a nice long engaging story, then this is a must own. Can't wait for Mafia 3.… Expand
  14. LegendaryNOFX
    May 13, 2015
    8
    Mafia II is one of those games that delivers IF you are seeking a more story driven game than a open world sandbox type game. The voice acting and music in the game is wonderful. In fact, the radio play lists are top notch and remind me of the music in the Bioshock series. The cars and weapons feel and sound like they are straight out of the 1940-50's so you need to be into that sort ofMafia II is one of those games that delivers IF you are seeking a more story driven game than a open world sandbox type game. The voice acting and music in the game is wonderful. In fact, the radio play lists are top notch and remind me of the music in the Bioshock series. The cars and weapons feel and sound like they are straight out of the 1940-50's so you need to be into that sort of thing for this game to work for you.

    There are some really memorable moments in this game, and the soundtrack at times plays into some of the banter back and forth between the very well developed characters. Another moment that I kept finding hilarious was Joe complaining every time I hit another car or blew through a red light while driving.

    There are collectibles so I don't really see why people think there is not...I mean PLAYBOYS and PIN UPS!!!

    If you are willing to take into account that this game is more story and mission centered then you will have a fun time playing this game. The game is engrossing enough to make you think about what you just played after you have completed the game.    … Expand
  15. SirPercivale
    Feb 1, 2015
    8
    Look this game came out 5 years ago and it was a huge success for 2K Czech.Maybe they could do more content, story lines and most important multiplayer.That would give a long gameplay to game and we would be still playing it.
  16. brendo214
    May 22, 2019
    9
    Mafia II is one of the best GTA-like games. At the very least, it has the best story of any GTA-like game.
  17. Miguelbpaes
    Jul 7, 2019
    8
    Se você é um fã de filmes como ''O poderoso chefão'' e do ''mundo'' da Máfia, Mafia II é provavelmente um dos melhores títulos que se pode encontrar no mercado. Não tão inovador quanto seu antecessor e ainda sim um game digno de ser jogado, Mafia II apresenta uma história excelente, personagens divertidos e memoráveis, uma trilha sonora fantástica e gráficos muito bonitos. Talvez o que oSe você é um fã de filmes como ''O poderoso chefão'' e do ''mundo'' da Máfia, Mafia II é provavelmente um dos melhores títulos que se pode encontrar no mercado. Não tão inovador quanto seu antecessor e ainda sim um game digno de ser jogado, Mafia II apresenta uma história excelente, personagens divertidos e memoráveis, uma trilha sonora fantástica e gráficos muito bonitos. Talvez o que o estrague seja sua gameplay, que é extremamente travada e ultrapassada, que pode atrapalhar em momentos mais decisivos na gameplay. Tirando isso, não deixe de conferir o 2º título da franquia, que é digno de muitas horas de diversão e imersão.… Expand
  18. FrankCreeper
    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
    P.S (I Play both console versions PS3/XBOX360)
  19. MusicCriticG
    Aug 28, 2023
    9
    This game is truly amazing, so many plot twists, and jaw dropping moments that make this game special in its own way I would play this game again 100%
  20. NatDurman
    Aug 31, 2010
    8
    Mafia II is the best game of it's kind. It's visceral, fierce and down right brutal, but alot of fun. With one of the best narratives that has graced the genre, rivalling that of films such as GoodFellas and The Godfather you'll feel like your a character in a film, rather than that in a video game. The basic story is that Vito Scaletta, a wounded soldier of WW2, returns to America to findMafia II is the best game of it's kind. It's visceral, fierce and down right brutal, but alot of fun. With one of the best narratives that has graced the genre, rivalling that of films such as GoodFellas and The Godfather you'll feel like your a character in a film, rather than that in a video game. The basic story is that Vito Scaletta, a wounded soldier of WW2, returns to America to find is family in a financial crisis. What happens along the way, and after though is alot more deep and interesting, as Vito and his buddy Joe Barbaro descend into the dark world of the Mafia. There are times where it seems like all will be well, but then, as we all know, the Mafia never forgets. The story is strong all the way through, taking twists and turns, and subjecting it's audience to some of the most brutal cutscenes in recent times. You'll feel for the characters, mainly due to their excellent voice acting. They all have great attributes, and feel like real gangsters right out of The Sopranos. Missions will vary, from Car stealing to whack jobs, Mafia II has it all. There are some truly harrowing moments, whilst others are extremely satisfying. There are also alot of references to pop culture movies and shows, most notable is the scene with Vito and Joe burying a deceased mobster, remember GoodFellas?

    The graphics are also a major part of the game, creating the fictional city of 'Empire Bay' that is loosely based on New York City. Everything from the diners to the shoe shiners breathes atmosphere, great authentic music from the likes of The Cadillacs and Dean Martin (just to name a few) also contribute to the 40's/50's feel. However, make no mistake, this is not an open world game. Waypoints constantly point you to your next objective and the game is chapter is split into chapters, giving you no time in between missions. Sure, you can rob clothes stores, gun shops and diners but what 2K Czech is trying to do here, is give the best experience possible. The story is the main selling point, and giving the players an open world would just be a mistake. However, it would have been nice to see an option to free-roam after the credits roll, rumours have already started circulating the internet, suggesting that 2K may be bringing this in an upcoming DLC.

    Overall then, Mafia II is a very good game. Sure, there are some draw backs, glitches that forced me to reload and not much to do after the credits roll, but they aren't game breakers. Taking just over 15 hours on the 'hard' difficulty setting, it won't take you long to complete, but whilst you are playing, it's a thrill ride that transports you back to the era of organised crime, cathouses and rocking tunes. This is definitely not one to miss.    … Expand
  21. Titus
    Sep 5, 2010
    9
    Immersion and story are big selling points here. However, that being said I found the gun-play extremely satisfying. Guns are punchy and their slight accuracy and recoil differences mean you'll be debating whether to use a zippy colt 1911 or a beefy magnum. The cover system works very well and does not make you invulnerable, enemies will take advantage if your arm is sticking around aImmersion and story are big selling points here. However, that being said I found the gun-play extremely satisfying. Guns are punchy and their slight accuracy and recoil differences mean you'll be debating whether to use a zippy colt 1911 or a beefy magnum. The cover system works very well and does not make you invulnerable, enemies will take advantage if your arm is sticking around a corner and will tear your cover to shreds if they can thanks to the physics system, making fights intense. Critics are complaining that the open world aspect of Mafia 2 is empty and that there are no side missions, however this is meant to be a more linear story based than GTA, as was the original Mafia, and the city still feels alive with its impressive attention to detail. Whereas the original Mafia was a romantic crime epic, taking notes from films like the Godfather, Mafia 2 has a more gritty and streetwise style, heavily influenced by Scorsese's Goodfellas and to an extent The Sopranos. Mafia 2 is slowly unfolding and the high notes are therefore more significant. My only gripe is that I finished the game wanting more, but that could also be seen as a good thing. Not a game for everyone.… Expand
  22. Tmac4Win
    Aug 30, 2010
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Mafia had been in the development for what, 3-4 years, i think. and after 4 years you hope that the game will deliver. you hope that it will be a fantastic game. well, mafia 2 is and in the other hand it isnt.
    first the good things: story (one of the best stories) graphics are very good. the number of cars and how each car feels different. gunplay and hand to hand combat, characters are very well written. the soundtrack-oh my god.
    the bad: not much to do in a big open world. NO SIDE MISSIONS
    if there had been side missions and the world was filled with places of intereset where you could go after a tireing mission and play darts or smth, it would have been the best game that had come out this year. but...
    my point of view-- if you want a game with a very good story mafia 2 is a must buy. but you would be better of renting one. 8 out of 10.    … Expand
  23. Electric_Face
    Sep 14, 2010
    8
    Mafia 2 has without a doubt one of the best attentions to story I've seen in games this year, similar to Mass Effect 2 or Red Dead Redemption but this time you're not controlling a blank space commander or a grizzly cow-person you can make do stupidly incongruous things that are contraposed their character, you're an angry young Sicilian in the 40's and 50's and this is HIS story, notMafia 2 has without a doubt one of the best attentions to story I've seen in games this year, similar to Mass Effect 2 or Red Dead Redemption but this time you're not controlling a blank space commander or a grizzly cow-person you can make do stupidly incongruous things that are contraposed their character, you're an angry young Sicilian in the 40's and 50's and this is HIS story, not yours. Everything is tailored to this story and yes the gameplay falters and seems hollow for doing so, but the end result is such an immersive tale of the American dream gone wrong that not only puts GTA4 to shame, it kicks it into the sun for it's crimes against consistency (not to say Mafia 2 isn't inconsistent, just GTA4 is moreso...in my opinion at least....which this is....I think....). Russ Pitts of The Escapist called Mafia 2 "Interactive Theatre" threatening it with overt similarities to powerful, mature, and importantly fantastic television shows, and this is exactly what it is, even with episodes being dubbed "chapters". Understandably many people would not approve of this, saying games need to be games and fun and flashy and bright and make noises that put grins on your face, and if that is the case then all the best to you, go buy Halo: Reach. This is a game for people who want to be immersed in a time where the characters depicted could exist, and the relations of those characters can be explored the way only video games can explore. Simply put, if you love good, hard-hitting films, and the likes of Mad Men or The Wire and want to experience that actively, get Mafia 2. And if it sounds like it'll be a lot of plodding conversations and tedious driving, then the new DLC has you constantly blowing half of the city to pieces in the role of what looks like Bruce Willis. Like 1950s Die Hard.… Expand
  24. Circus
    Sep 21, 2010
    8
    Mafia 2 is really great for its level of detail. something which sadly is only truly uncoved when collecting all of the collectible items in the game. The story is fantastic, and I genuinely felt some attatchment to the characters which I NEVER get. The story is maybe a little short and only the DLC can fix that. The graphics are fine and the music fits the game perfectly. If you areMafia 2 is really great for its level of detail. something which sadly is only truly uncoved when collecting all of the collectible items in the game. The story is fantastic, and I genuinely felt some attatchment to the characters which I NEVER get. The story is maybe a little short and only the DLC can fix that. The graphics are fine and the music fits the game perfectly. If you are sensitive to strong language then you may be a little turned off by the diaglogue as it is the main reason for the 18 or M rating. The only thing which lets this game down is the small scope for customisation and the lack of exploration involved in the story. Still a fantastic story with a couple of moments where I genuinely got lost in what I was doing.… Expand
  25. ThomasTalks
    Oct 7, 2010
    8
    This is a great game. The combat and driving are both extremely satisfying, and the story isnt bad either. But the game is not big or long enough to justify a $60 purchase. It will probably take you about 10-12 hours to play through the story, and after you beat it there isnt much that is going to make you want to return to the game,except maybe to find the playboy picture collectibles.This is a great game. The combat and driving are both extremely satisfying, and the story isnt bad either. But the game is not big or long enough to justify a $60 purchase. It will probably take you about 10-12 hours to play through the story, and after you beat it there isnt much that is going to make you want to return to the game,except maybe to find the playboy picture collectibles. With that said the story is mostly cut and dry mafia cliches but it is really fun,except for a few pointless but small sections, and you will most likely be sucked in. The gun play is great and has a nice amount of gore and really does well making the weapons feel authentic. The hand to hand combat is nicely handled too, you have to counter an use strategy to come out on top of fights. There is also a cover system that works well most of the time but can be off. Driving in the game is fun and made to be more realistic than arcadey, there is an option in the game to make the driving more or less realistic though, and the game world that you drive through is colorful and interesting, but small in comparision to other open world offerings. The graphics are great as well, the cars and city look amazing and the charater models arent bad either. This game is a great game to rent but i dont reccomend dropping $60 into it.… Expand
  26. Frewp
    Oct 13, 2010
    8
    Excellent story mode, and anticipated and it well deserves it. I would give this game a solid 8.5 if this website had that rating type. People think this game is a GTA in older times, but they are completely wrong. I enjoyed this much more then GTA then GTA IV was kind of a let down compared to games with classic gameplay like San Andreas, but this game has somewhat nudity (playboyExcellent story mode, and anticipated and it well deserves it. I would give this game a solid 8.5 if this website had that rating type. People think this game is a GTA in older times, but they are completely wrong. I enjoyed this much more then GTA then GTA IV was kind of a let down compared to games with classic gameplay like San Andreas, but this game has somewhat nudity (playboy magazines) which really shouldn't be implemented since some people can't get the game with that rating. Overall, great game, good vehicles controls, and great missions. It could get repetitive but I couldn't stop playing.… Expand
  27. Gypsor
    Aug 26, 2010
    10
    This game is not GTA(which is a good IMHO). GTA/RDR/etc are completely different games. I liked both of those games, but I had a lot more fun playing Mafia 2. I'm going to compare it to GTA because that seems to be the popular counter example on the internet, and we all know the internets never lie. And someone needs to stand up for a good game where the moronicons come out of theThis game is not GTA(which is a good IMHO). GTA/RDR/etc are completely different games. I liked both of those games, but I had a lot more fun playing Mafia 2. I'm going to compare it to GTA because that seems to be the popular counter example on the internet, and we all know the internets never lie. And someone needs to stand up for a good game where the moronicons come out of the wood work screaming "NO BLIND FIRE, NO EUPHORIA!!! NO 100 HOURS GAME SUCKS MY B's I GIVE IT A SCORE OF TOO!!"

    What Mafia 2 tries to do, is to put the player in an immersive, realistic environment + story/narative + fun gameplay = Great Game!

    The city, and the people in it, are a set piece more than anything else. It is highly detailed and visually/audibly rich. The voice acting is great, the story is great, and the movement feels real. As a result you care about your character and the people around him and the actions he takes. It's linear, but it's good(by the by GTA IV and RDR are linear, with passable story lines). The characters are rich and serious, which is refreshing after all the rockstar games were every character is a trite pulp fiction type who makes 1000 pop references a second.

    There's really no free roam or anything like that, although you can do whatever you want in on the way to missions/home. I just mean there's not a lot of side content, and consequently the game is shorter. However, that being said, since the story missions were so tight, I had a lot more fun playing this game then most. Less messenger boy, chores to do.

    I think why I like this game the most, is that it is a little more realistic. Gun fights are quick and deadly, car crashes are the same. And maybe it's just me, but in GTA IV, I wasn't even worried about cops until 4 stars, but in mafia 2, I find myself super tensed up when the cops get involved. It actually takes a level of skill to lose them.

    This is a really good game. I like the cinematic look and feel, I like the game play. GTA IV(and by extension all open world games) is a totally different animal. That being said. You get more for your money with GTA, but If I think back, I actually had more fun playing Mafia 2, and consequently, think it's a better game. Graphics, open world, linear/non linear, blind fire, etc doesn't matter. If you have fun playing a game, then it's a good game. I had more fun in Mafia 2 then GTA IV.    … Expand
  28. Weckl
    Aug 27, 2010
    8
    Storyline

    Great storyline, maybe even better than MAFIA. Once the game is over you will find yourself thinking about it, how well explained it was, and what an amazing ride you had. Graphics Pretty awesome graphics dispite the fact that consoles (PS3 and specially XBOX 360) are breaking the advancement that actual PC graphic cards can achieve. For PC users is also a shame that ATI users    Storyline

    Great storyline, maybe even better than MAFIA. Once the game is over you will find yourself thinking about it, how well explained it was, and what an amazing ride you had.

    Graphics
    Pretty awesome graphics dispite the fact that consoles (PS3 and specially XBOX 360) are breaking the advancement that actual PC graphic cards can achieve. For PC users is also a shame that ATI users don't get PhysX effects. All in all, the graphics look terrific and the game plays softly with everything at maximum detail. I think it is better optimized than GTA IV but GTA IV also have a powerful game engine that lets you see distance much farther. You can also fly around the city in GTA IV. In Mafia 2 you can only drive motor vehicles.

    Gameplay

    A.I is not bad but not extraordinary. I wonder how an XBOX 360 can be able to aim correctly playing this game. Playing with mouse and keyboard is pretty easy to end the game in easy level due to the fact that you are more precise.
    The most bothering thing is when police is behind you. Depending of the car you are driving is pretty difficult to avoid police arrestment. Also driving from point A to B so many times can result in a very frustrating experience that also gets enhanced due to the lame, buggy and tedious checkpoint system. If a situation like this happens (having to repeat 20 minutes or more of a played experience) I recommend quiting the game and start again a few hours later.
    Also the fighting system is enhanced. If you enjoyed boxing with people in MAFIA 1, you won't get dissapointed.

    Sound

    The voice acting is brilliant although in some moments police voices are louder than the dialog that is taken place at the moment. Would be much better to include 7.1 audio support or EAX effects. The game has a very "console" feeling in this aspect.

    Presentation

    Having played MAFIA 1 I feel that MAFIA 2 had redeemed itself to console standars. That beautiful animated game menu of MAFIA 1 has been ripped of by a dull almost static game menu presentation. Music Outstanding music selection that fits perfectly with the gameplay at that particular mood of the character. Thanks to the music hits of 40's and 50's you will get the feeling that you are right there, living that period of time. The original soundtrack of MAFIA 1 deserved an OSCAR in my humble opinion. This time original main theme track is also magnificent but not achieve the perfection of the first MAFIA.

    Animation

    Facial animation is much better than MAFIA 1 which at that period of time was the best facial animation I ever experienced playing a PC game. This time characters achieve even more realism due to the eye animation. The animation of the eyes is simply amazing and is what makes that characters so believable. Amazing work in that aspect. But main character (Vito) animation while walking, crouching, running could have been done much better. In that aspect I think that animation of GTA IV character is much better foremost while running.

    Conclusion

    All in all this game is a must play game although I don't consider it a must have inmediately due to the fact of lack of multiplayer, the PC version has been ripped to adapt console standards (remember that you can load game from wherever you wanted in the past, well now that was ripped apart, you have to deal with a frustrating checkpoint loading consolized system, even if you spent thousands of dollars on a PC).
    Also I think it is a shame that no crossfire or sli support is contemplated here either, nor even a multi cpu support... in this aspect PC potential is wasted so bad...what a shame ! But this is old news lately, PC games advancement is being braked by consoles. This is my biggest criticism of the game.
    The positive aspects : the story, it's fun to play, you get hooked by it until you end it, and the music are sufficient valors to give a notable high note to MAFIA 2.    … Expand
  29. Joey
    Aug 24, 2010
    10
    This is a great game with a compelling story with entertaining missions. The graphics are great and even though there are no side quests the story and gun play will keep you busy.
  30. cooldude
    Aug 26, 2010
    10
    Mafia II is such an impressive package :) like one guy said here amazing story, and lots of things to do around the city. I am so addicted to this game and it seems to be very well thought out. This game is awesome.
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Awards & Rankings

7
#7 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2010
11
#11 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2010

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
74

Mixed or average reviews - based on 79 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 51 out of 79
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 79
  3. Negative: 5 out of 79
  1. Video Game Talk
    Jan 12, 2011
    60
    A great story that manages to make old ground seem fresh, coupled with out-of-this world sound design, is sadly attached to a middle-of-the-road, limited third-person gaming experience.
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  2. GameSpot
    85
    Mafia II's exciting action and uncompromising mob story make for an impressive and violent adventure.
    Read full review
  3. Giant Bomb
    60
    I'm a sucker for a good mob story, but Mafia II's is merely decent.
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