Hangar 13, the developer of Mafia: The Old Country, has confirmed the game will feature authentic Sicilian voice acting, addressing fan concerns regarding the initial omission of Italian from the Steam page's language list. This decision underscores the developer's commitment to historical accuracy.

Mafia: The Old Country Initially Faces Backlash

The game's setting in 1900s Sicily initially caused confusion when the Steam page listed several languages with full audio, notably excluding Italian, a language featured in previous Mafia installments. This sparked considerable backlash from fans who felt the omission was disrespectful, given the Italian origins of the Mafia.

Hangar 13 Clarifies its Choice

In response to the criticism, Hangar 13 tweeted, emphasizing the franchise's dedication to authenticity. The game will use Sicilian dialect, reflecting the game's historical setting. Italian language support will still be present, in the form of subtitles and in-game UI text.

The use of Sicilian, distinct from modern Italian, adds a layer of cultural authenticity. The dialect's unique vocabulary and nuances, exemplified by the difference between "scusa" (Italian for "sorry") and "m'â scusari" (Sicilian), contribute to the game's immersive experience. Sicily's unique geographic location, at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, has resulted in a rich linguistic tapestry influenced by Greek, Arabic, Norman French, and Spanish, further justifying the choice. This linguistic diversity aligns perfectly with the "authentic realism" promised by 2K Games.

Mafia: The Old Country, described as a "gritty mob story set in the brutal underworld of 1900s Sicily," doesn't yet have a firm release date. However, 2K Games has promised a more in-depth reveal in December, possibly coinciding with The Game Awards. Further details are anticipated at this prestigious gaming event.

For more details on the Mafia: The Old Country announcement, refer to the linked article.