Mafia 2Mafia II
Platforms: X360, PS3
Sequel to a groundbreaking 2002 open-world classic, Mafia II hits the mean streets this week -- and it looks like Italian-American associations aren't the only ones a little underwhelmed with it.
While it's easy to compare the game to other open-world epics like Grand
Theft Auto IV and Red Dead Redemption, Mafia II's story is much
tighter, critics say, giving players few reasons to explore its city or
pursue its sparse set of side tasks. But there's broad agreement that
if you can put up with its linear nature, it's well worth taking a walk
on the wiseguy side.
While praising Mafia II's "competent game mechanics and absorbing narrative," Destructoid's Nick Chester felt fenced in by its "sometimes mind-blowingly boring" missions and awarded it a lackluster 6.5/10 on the PC and Xbox 360, and a 7.5/10 on
the PS3.
Why the higher mark on the Playstation? While it's not
the prettiest of the three, it does have the most content thanks to an
exclusive, free downloadable content pack. It's pretty clear: If you
are fortunate enough to have the choice, opt for the PS3.
"If you have a "made man" itch, feel free to scratch it here," says IGN's Greg Miller,
"but be prepared for a pretty standard third-person shooter in the
gameplay department...Mafia II is a solid little game that'll give you
a fun ride — just don't expect the world." A 7.0/10 is the verdict, and
so far most other outlets are falling in line.
With one notable exception. Game Informer (who published a 9/10 review) sees the on-rails storyline as a plus,saying "those who never finish lengthy games will appreciate Mafia II's direct storytelling." It's a "gripping drama about family, friendship,
loyalty, betrayal, and pragmatism," they say, finishing with a
recommendation that'll make any budding mafiosi look up from his
spaghetti: "if you're fond of quoting Don Corleone and Tony Soprano,
don't miss this game."
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Platforms: iPhone
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Get More Game Details |Download From Appolicious
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Platforms: DS
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Get More Game Details |Buy From Amazon
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Platforms: DS, Wii
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Get More Game Details |Buy from Amazon
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Platforms: Wii, DS
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