Based on the presentation of development studio Hangar 13 during the recent Gamescom 2015 event, the third installment in the "Mafia" game series will slightly deviate from the theme of its prequels.
Of course, the game will still focus on the underground criminal organizations but instead of portraying members of the Italian mob as the central characters, they will be the antagonists in "Mafia III."
The upcoming game is set in 1968 in the city of New Orleans. It follows the story of Lincoln Clay, a half-black, half-white soldier who just came home from the Vietnam War. Shortly after his return, he is welcomed by the violence and racism plaguing the city but then finds solace in the company of the Black Mob, according to Eurogamer.
However, his organization is attacked by an Italian crime family and he is left for dead. Surviving a shot to the head, Clay rampages across the city to seek revenge on those who wiped out his new family.
In "Mafia III," players will roam around a detailed representation of New Orleans. From its dense bayous to the bustling streets, Hangar 13 was able to accurately depict every aspect of the city. It also features an open-world setting that allows gamers to explore every inch of the game's environment, PC Gamer reported.
For its gameplay, "Mafia III" still utilizes the same cover-based third-person shooting perspective. They can either engage in a head-on shootout against enemies or take them down using stealth methods.
Also, Clay will not be alone in his mission to take on the Italian mob. As part of the game's objectives, gamers will have to build their own criminal empire by recruiting other mob bosses and their enforcers, which includes Vito Scaletta, the main character from "Mafia II," according to IGN.
Serving as lieutenants, these mob bosses can be called in when gamers need reinforcements. Gaining their trust and allegiance will also unlock special abilities and items. But, if players fail to keep the lieutenants happy, they'll break away and betray Clay.
"Mafia III" is scheduled to come out sometime in 2016 and will be available for the PC, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
Check out the game's gameplay trailer below.
