I have mixed feelings about Mafia 3. It is a good game, for the most part. The story is very well written; in fact it's the best part of the game. The characters are lifelike and believable, especially Lincoln. He does some terrible things but it's impossible to not have sympathy for him. The controls are tight and responsive for the most part whether you're driving, shooting, or running. Some of the cars turn like you're driving a semi but that's forgivable. I know some people have mentioned that the graphics are not the best, which is true. They have a washed out, kind of vintage look to them. To me it adds a nice feel to the game since it is set in the 60's, but if you like cutting edge graphics you'll probably be disappointed.
One of the things that could've used a lot of improvement is the way the rackets are set up. Once you take over a district you can assign it to one of your three partners, which unlocks bonuses for you. Each underboss of course has different bonuses, so choose wisely. Some of the bonuses include calling in backup, being able to call off the police, and cutting off the phones so your enemies can't call in backup. The problem is it seems every time I get into a tight situation and I go to use these abilities they're unavailable for some reason, which is very frustrating. The whole system could use more depth and improvement. The ability to have some underlings go with you on missions would come in handy; it's a common enough system and should have been implemented.
Also if you're expecting a ton of side activities to do you may erase that idea from your head. Each under boss will have stuff they'd like for you to do but it's limited to one or two missions until you take over a new district. Some people probably won't be bothered by this but I think it could've used a little more content in that regard.
Another complaint I have is the game gives you a very nice sniper rifle to purchase. I love sniping; in any game I play if there's a sniper rifle you will find me in a tree somewhere. The problem with them in Mafia 3 is that there's rarely a place you can use them. The game does designate sniper points in some missions but after you shoot your first enemy the rest of them are going to rush your position. Because when you shoot the rifle it sounds like a cannon just went off. Which is fun but that leaves you with a useless rifle and only a pistol as backup. The missions could've been a little better designed, especially for people who enjoy using stealth. Or give us a silencer, at least!
Despite the flaws it is an enjoyable game and worth a play through. It's a shame it received so much criticism; I think they kind of shot themselves in the foot by not sending out early copies so they could be reviewed. Give it a rent at least; I don't think you'll regret it.
