“We are not the same.” While it shares a criminal underworld theme with GTA 6, the upcoming Mafia: The Old Country is one of the few games unafraid of Rockstar’s dominance. Developed by 2K Games and Hangar 13, the highly anticipated title is set for a summer 2025 release. Despite its proximity to the launch of GTA 6, the studio is confident that the two games are so different that there’s no need for concern.

For months, Mafia: The Old Country has been the talk of the gaming world, but it truly stole the spotlight at this year’s The Game Awards with its stunning visuals, early 20th-century Sicilian setting, and confirmation of a summer 2025 launch window. However, this promising new title will face Rockstar’s GTA 6, which is expected to release in fall 2025. The developers at Hangar 13 remain unfazed by the looming competition.

Mafia Offers a More Focused Experience Than Grand Theft Auto

Speaking to IGN, The Old Country director Alex Cox emphasized the growing differences between the Mafia and GTA franchises. “When GTA 3 and Mafia came out in 2000 and 2002, they were mechanically similar games. But Mafia has always placed greater emphasis on its linear narrative, whereas Rockstar has perfected open-world experiences to the highest industry standard,” Cox explained. He believes this makes the two series distinct experiences, despite their shared criminal themes.

Nick Baynes, president of Hangar 13, added that the industry’s prolonged development cycles make overlapping release dates less of a concern. “You just build the best you can and hope it stands on its own,” Baynes said. He stressed that the primary focus of Mafia: The Old Country is to deliver a story that stays true to the Mafia universe, appealing to the franchise’s dedicated fans, rather than worrying about market competition.

Baynes also noted that The Old Country seeks to honor the roots of the Mafia series by returning to the linear storytelling approach of Mafia and Mafia 2. Cox elaborated that the new title will not be a traditional open-world game. “You’re not going to be doing endless side missions or scattered activities. We’re focusing on delivering a solid story, which is what sets our IP apart,” Baynes explained.

A Narrower Focus Could Be Mafia’s Strength

This narrative-driven approach might give Hangar 13 an advantage, especially as GTA 6 continues to expand its massive open-world format. Instead, The Old Country aims to provide a more contained, story-focused experience, catering to players who value rich, well-structured narratives.

While Mafia: The Old Country is set for a summer 2025 launch, neither game’s exact release date is confirmed. GTA 6 could face delays, making it possible that the two titles won’t compete directly in the end.

Source: 3djuegos