Mafia Review

Mafia, developed by Illusion Softworks and published by Gathering of Developers, brought its gritty, narrative-driven crime experience to the PlayStation 2 (PS2) in 2002. While often compared to other open-world games of its era, Mafia distinguished itself with its strong emphasis on storytelling, realism, and a meticulously crafted 1930s setting. This Mafia PS2 review delves into what made this game a memorable entry on the console.

Gameplay: Gritty Realism and Mission Focus

Mafia on the PS2 offers a distinct gameplay loop that prioritizes a linear, mission-based progression over a true sandbox experience. Players control Tommy Angelo, a taxi driver who inadvertently gets drawn into the Salieri crime family. Each mission is a carefully designed set piece, often involving driving period-accurate vehicles and engaging in intense shooting mechanics.

The game’s realism was a key selling point. Driving was challenging, with cars handling authentically for the 1930s. Gunfights were brutal and often required strategic use of cover. Unlike some contemporaries, the open world of Lost Heaven served primarily as a backdrop for missions rather than a playground for free-roaming chaos. This focus on structured gameplay, while sometimes restrictive, ensured a tightly paced and cinematic experience.

• Emphasis on realistic 1930s driving and shooting
• Linear, mission-based progression
• Challenging and tactical combat
• Limited but atmospheric open-world exploration
• Authentic period vehicles and weaponry

Story and Characters: A Compelling Crime Drama

The undisputed highlight of Mafia is its captivating narrative. Told through the eyes of Tommy Angelo, the story chronicles his rise and fall within the Salieri crime family. The plot is a classic gangster tale, filled with loyalty, betrayal, ambition, and tragic consequences.

The characters are incredibly well-written and voiced, particularly on the PC, though the PS2 version retains much of their charm. Don Salieri, Paulie, Sam, and other members of the mob feel genuinely alive, contributing to the game’s immersive cinematic feel. The story unfolds with gravitas and emotional weight, making players truly invested in Tommy’s journey.

Graphics and Sound: Capturing the 1930s Atmosphere

On the PlayStation 2, Mafia presented a stylized but effective rendition of 1930s Lost Heaven. While the graphics were a step down from the PC original, they still conveyed the game’s dark and elegant atmosphere. Character models were decent, and the city architecture successfully evoked the era.

The sound design was a major strength. The period-appropriate jazz and swing soundtrack, combined with excellent voice acting and realistic weapon sounds, truly transported players to the 1930s. The dialogue, in particular, was sharp and memorable.

Legacy: A Niche Gem

Mafia on the PS2, despite its technical compromises compared to the PC version, carved out a niche as a unique crime game. It proved that an action-adventure title could prioritize a compelling story-driven experience over pure sandbox freedom. Its influence on later narrative-focused games in the genre is undeniable.

Is Mafia on PS2 Worth Playing Today?

For fans of classic PS2 games and crime dramas, Mafia is still worth experiencing, particularly if you appreciate its focus on narrative and realism. While the Mafia: Definitive Edition offers a modern remake, the original PS2 version holds a nostalgic charm and a unique place in gaming history for its ambitious storytelling on the console.