The anticipation around Mafia: The Old Country has grown significantly following the confirmation from 2K Games and Hangar 13 about the inclusion of Sicilian voice acting. This announcement comes after some fans questioned the absence of an Italian audio option listed on Steam.
During the closing moments of Gamescom Opening Night Live, the developers revealed that the latest installment in the Mafia series is in production for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, with a scheduled release in 2025. Although the reveal showcased only a brief cinematic teaser, players can now add the game to their wishlists on various platforms.
Post-announcement, some fans noticed additional details on the Steam page indicating that Italian voice acting would not be part of the game, which raised eyebrows given the strong Italian heritage tied to the series. The language options listed included English, French, German, Spanish, Czech, and Russian, although Italian subtitles and interface settings were available.
One user expressed their confusion at the decision, questioning why the franchise's inaugural game set in Sicily would lack Italian audio. Fortunately, the developers have since clarified their position. In a recent update on X / Twitter, they explained that the game will feature voice acting in the Sicilian dialect, reflecting its 1990s Sicily backdrop rather than standard Italian.
According to the statement, the Mafia franchise prioritizes authenticity, and Mafia: The Old Country will provide voice acting that aligns with the game's historical context. Moreover, players can expect Italian language options for the in-game interface and subtitles.
While a specific release date for Mafia: The Old Country is still pending, Hangar 13 has promised that more insights will be shared in December. There has also been a brief overview provided regarding the plot, which centers on the origins of organized crime. The narrative promises to deliver a gritty mob tale set against the harsh realities of 1900s Sicily, combining action with the renowned authentic storytelling the Mafia series is celebrated for.