Mafia II, an open-world action-adventure game developed by 2K Czech and published by 2K, was released in 2010. Set between 1945 and 1951, the game immerses players in the criminal underworld of Empire Bay through the eyes of a young mobster named Vito Scaletta. This game allows players to explore a richly detailed world, filled with period-appropriate cars, fashion, and music that contribute to the overall ambiance of the post-World War II era. Available on PC, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360, Mafia II received mixed reviews upon release. Critics praised its narrative and atmosphere but criticized its linear mission structure and lack of open-world activities. Despite these critiques, the game performed well commercially, prompting the development of a sequel and a remastered version in 2020 for Xbox One and PlayStation 4.
Mafia II Premise
In Mafia II, players step into the shoes of Vito Scaletta, a young Sicilian immigrant who returns home to Empire Bay after serving in World War II. The game’s narrative follows Vito as he attempts to establish himself within the Mafia, navigating the treacherous waters of the criminal underworld. The game’s setting spans several years, from 1945 to 1951, allowing players to experience the post-war transformation of Empire Bay, which is a fictional city inspired by New York City, Chicago, and San Francisco.
The open-world design of Empire Bay offers players a vast cityscape to explore, complete with various districts that reflect different socioeconomic classes and cultural influences. The game allows players to traverse the city either on foot or by driving period-accurate vehicles. However, players must tread carefully as the game features a Wanted system that responds to criminal activities, leading to police chases and shootouts.
Unlike many open-world games that emphasize player freedom and side activities, Mafia II focuses heavily on its main storyline. The game’s missions are designed to advance the narrative, often involving driving to specific locations and engaging in combat. This structured approach helps maintain the storyline’s momentum but limits the variety of activities available to players. Consequently, some players and critics have noted that the game can feel repetitive, as missions often follow a similar formula.
Mafia II Main Characters
Mafia II’s narrative is driven by its richly developed characters, each with their unique motivations and backgrounds. These characters contribute to the game’s gritty portrayal of the Mafia, highlighting the moral complexities and personal struggles within the criminal world.
- Vito Scaletta: Vito is the protagonist of Mafia II. After being injured during World War II, he returns to Empire Bay, struggling to find his place in a society that has drastically changed. Vito’s journey from a war veteran to a rising star in the Falcone crime family is the central focus of the game. His character embodies the themes of loyalty, ambition, and the quest for power, all while dealing with the harsh realities of life in the Mafia.
- Joe Barbaro: Joe is Vito’s best friend and serves as the secondary protagonist in Mafia II. Unlike Vito, Joe did not serve in the military and instead immersed himself in the criminal underworld during Vito’s absence. Joe is boisterous, impulsive, and deeply loyal to Vito. He introduces Vito to the life of crime, and their friendship is a key element of the game’s storyline. Joe’s actions often bring both opportunity and danger, adding tension and excitement to the narrative.
- Carlo Falcone: Carlo is the Don of the Falcone crime family and the main antagonist of Mafia II. Initially, he appears as an ally to Vito, offering guidance and support as Vito climbs the ranks within the family. However, as the story progresses, Carlo’s true nature is revealed, exposing his ruthless ambition and willingness to betray anyone who stands in his way. His complex relationship with Vito and Joe adds depth to the game’s plot, culminating in a dramatic and inevitable confrontation.
Mafia II Titles in the Series
The Mafia series, developed by 2K Czech (formerly Illusion Softworks) and published by 2K Games, has a history of delivering story-driven experiences set within the Mafia criminal world. Although the series is well-regarded among fans for its engaging narratives and authentic period settings, it has not achieved the same level of commercial success as other open-world franchises like Grand Theft Auto or Saints Row. Here’s a detailed look at the titles in the Mafia series:
- Mafia (2002): The original game, developed by Illusion Softworks, was released in 2002. Set in the 1930s, it follows the story of Tommy Angelo, a taxi driver who becomes entangled with the Salieri crime family. The game was praised for its engaging story, realistic depiction of the era, and challenging gameplay. Its success laid the foundation for the series.
- Mafia II (2010): This sequel introduced players to Vito Scaletta and the world of Empire Bay. Building on the narrative-driven approach of the first game, Mafia II offered an immersive experience with improved graphics, voice acting, and a detailed open world. Despite its linear mission structure, it was praised for its storytelling and atmospheric setting.
- Mafia III (2016): The third installment shifted the setting to 1968 in the fictional city of New Bordeaux, based on New Orleans. The game follows Lincoln Clay, a Vietnam War veteran seeking revenge against the Italian Mafia for betraying his surrogate family. Mafia III introduced new gameplay mechanics, including a focus on building and managing criminal enterprises. However, it received mixed reviews due to technical issues and repetitive mission design.
- Mafia: Definitive Edition (2020): This remake of the original Mafia game brought updated graphics, improved mechanics, and expanded narrative elements. It retained the core story of Tommy Angelo while enhancing the overall experience to meet modern gaming standards.
- Mafia II: Definitive Edition (2020): This remastered version of Mafia II included updated graphics and minor gameplay improvements. It allowed a new generation of players to experience Vito Scaletta’s story on modern consoles while preserving the original game’s essence.
Mafia II Cheat Codes
Unlike its predecessor, Mafia II does not feature official cheat codes, a reflection of changing trends in game design by 2010. During this period, cheat codes were becoming less common as developers focused on creating balanced experiences that encouraged players to engage with the game’s mechanics as intended. However, there are still some exploits that players can use to gain advantages:
Easy Money
One well-known exploit for earning easy money in Mafia II involves Bruski’s Scrapyard. Players can find a random car parked next to the car crusher. By breaking into the car and crushing it, players can earn $400. After leaving the scrapyard through the north exit and driving under a nearby bridge, returning to the scrapyard causes the car to respawn. This process can be repeated indefinitely, allowing players to accumulate large amounts of money with minimal effort.
Easy City Points
Players can also exploit a glitch to earn city points, which contribute to the “Millionaire” achievement. To do this, players should drive to Sand Island and find a store with a sign reading “Luncheonette Natural Food & Vitamins.” By driving through the store’s window, players will fall through the map and into an infinite void. This action generates constant velocity points. Leaving the game running for about four hours will accumulate enough points to reach the 1,000,000 required for the achievement. This method is much faster than earning points through regular gameplay, although it requires players to leave their game running uninterrupted.
Playboy Magazine Locations
Mafia II features collectible Playboy magazines scattered throughout its chapters. These collectibles provide additional content and offer a nostalgic glimpse into the era’s culture. Here are the detailed locations for some of these magazines:
Chapter 2:
- Joe’s Apartment: The first magazine can be found on the coffee table inside Joe’s apartment. (#1)
- Bruski’s Scrapyard: In the three-car garage located across from Mike’s Beast, the magazine is on a shelf. (#3)
Chapter 3:
- Exterior of Derek’s Office: Before entering the warehouse, players can find a magazine on the left side of the building. (#18)
- Maria Agnello’s Apartment Building: Inside the entrance, on the left side of the floor. (#4)
- Office of Price Administration: In the lobby, on the corner of the guard’s desk. (#40)
Chapter 4:
- Bookstore Exit: After exiting the bookstore, a magazine is found next to a box of books on the floor. (#9)
- Under the Stairs: After collecting the previous magazine, turn left to find the next one under the stairs. (#2)
- West Side Mall: On the rooftop shelter, after crossing the ledge in front of the mall. (#8)
Chapter 5:
- 233 Misery Lane: Head up the stairs and look between two doors to find the magazine. (#11)
- The Distillery: On the first floor, inside an office on a shelf. (#10)
- After Killing Sidney Pen: The magazine is located between three chairs and a storage cage. (#12)
Chapter 6:
- Prison Yard: Behind the bleachers next to a sleeping prisoner. (#13)
- Basketball Court: Across the court, between a shed and a fence. (#14)
Chapter 7:
- Joe’s Apartment Building: At the end of the hallway on the top floor. (#50)
- Scaletta Apartment Building: On the second-floor landing. (#17)
Chapter 8:
- Vito’s Kitchen Table: On the table in Vito’s new apartment. (#46)
- Foundry: Inside a shack on the left side after entering the foundry. (#19)
- After Rail Yard: After fighting in the rail yard, inside the foundry. (#21)
Chapter 9:
- The Maltese Falcon Bar: On the end of the bar counter. (#41)
- Down the Tunnel: After Vito gets drowned, follow the tunnel to find the magazine. (#23)
Chapter 10:
- Back Door Hallway: On a desk after entering the back door. (#25)
- 16th Floor: On the floor after the conference room. (#27)
- Control Panel: Next to the window washer’s lift. (#26)
Chapter 11:
- Galante Mansion: Inside the entrance hall. (#47)
- Bathroom: Inside the mansion, on the sink. (#29)
Chapter 12:
- Sea Gift Fishing Co. Warehouse: Inside a locker. (#31)
- Staircase: Up the staircase after the cutscene with the “cops.” (#33)
Chapter 13:
- Red Dragon Dining Hall: On a table. (#34)
- Buddha Statue: Downstairs from the statue. (#36)
Chapter 14:
- Building Top: Behind a wall. (#44)
Chapter 15:
- First Room: Down the stairs in the first room entered. (#45)
Mafia II Cheat Code FAQs
Despite the lack of official cheat codes, many players still seek ways to gain advantages or alter their gameplay experience. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Mafia II cheat codes and cheats:
Why Aren’t There Any Mafia II Cheat Codes?
Cheat codes were becoming increasingly rare by the time Mafia II was released. During the early 2000s, cheat codes were common in many games, providing players with shortcuts, power-ups, and fun alterations to gameplay. However, as gaming evolved, developers began to focus more on creating balanced experiences that encouraged players to engage with the game’s mechanics and challenges as intended. Additionally, the rise of achievements and online multiplayer modes discouraged the inclusion of cheat codes, as they could disrupt the balance and fairness of the game.
Can I Mod Mafia II Instead?
For PC players, modding is a popular alternative to cheat codes. Modding allows players to alter various aspects of the game, from graphics and gameplay mechanics to adding new content and features. Websites like Nexus Mods host a variety of mods for Mafia II, catering to different preferences and play styles. Some popular mods include graphical enhancements, new outfits and vehicles, and gameplay tweaks that can provide advantages similar to cheat codes. While the modding scene for Mafia II is not as active as some other games, there are still plenty of options available for players looking to customize their experience.
Are There Any Cheats For Mafia II: Definitive Edition?
Mafia II: Definitive Edition, released in 2020, is a remastered version of the original game. While it features updated graphics and minor gameplay improvements, it does not include any official cheat codes. The remaster aimed to preserve the core experience of the original game while making it accessible to modern players. As with the original release, players on PC can still use mods to customize their experience. However, players on consoles are limited to the game’s default settings and content.
