Mafia III

Our analysis

A broken, poorly optimized open-world game with weak performance, dozy AI, no fast travel, and repetitive missions that does not justify its full price. Despite that, the strong characters and writing, slick setting, great soundtrack, excellent cutscenes, and satisfying combat (especially shotgun gunplay and driving) make it genuinely fun. Best enjoyed once it hits a steam sale or bargain bin.

Our analysis

Mafia III's revenge story of Vietnam vet Lincoln Clay is one of ACG's favorite open-world stories, with over 30 hours of content, but repetitive mission padding, a lean open world and crashes on every system he tested make it a wait for a sale until it is patched.

Our analysis

Mafia III buries its revenge story beneath repetitive missions, disappearing mission markers and shallow territory management. Lincoln never feels like a relatable underdog, with his campaign planned and supplied by a CIA operative.

Our analysis

Mafia III nails its late-1960s setting with a standout soundtrack, satisfying gunplay and improved driving, but after a strong opening few hours it becomes a repetitive grind of unimaginative missions with no customization or multiplayer; worth picking up once the price drops.

Our analysis

Lincoln Clay's revenge story and supporting cast are excellent, backed by a huge period licensed soundtrack. Shooting and light stealth are solid but familiar, driving is floaty, visuals are inconsistent, and PC launched with a 30fps cap.