- Image of Mafia Definitive Edition, Courtesy of Hangar 13 and 2K

From Don to Dust: Mafia Game Franchise Ranked

Originally posted on Total Apex Gaming | By Ciara Blecka | Last updated Sep 9, 2025 9:24 PM ET

The Mafia game franchise was originally released in 2002. All of the games have had great reviews, but at first, this game was lumped in with games like Grand Theft Auto. However, eventually it set itself apart largely due to the presence of mobsters. All of the games in this series are great, so it is hard to choose the best one, but there’s just no beating the original–unless, of course, it’s the Definitive Edition!

Mafia: Definitive Edition

This is the best version in the Mafia game franchise simply because it takes everything that is great about the original and expands on that. There are updates to voice acting and dialogue, but it retains all of the original script and soundtrack. It is a full remake of the original game. This may be why it is so endearing.

Mafia: The Old Country

Screenshot of Mafia The Old Country courtesy of Hangar 13 and 2K.

Despite disregarding the previous Mafia game storyline, the newest Mafia installment ranks high. This game is more of a prequel, set in the early days of the mob. It has a fabulous storyline and exciting gameplay and that makes it close to the top of the list for me! It has a very classic storyline, following a young mob boss through his climb up the ladder.

Mafia II

This game is buggy and crashy here and there on the definitive edition, but overall, this is one of the best games in the franchise. It follows the story of Mafia I and adds more richness and depth to it. Also, this game features a lot more of two of the best characters: Vito and Joe.

Mafia III

Image of Mafia III, Courtesy of Hangar 13 and 2K

The main problem with this game is technical issues. It is buggy, has erratic performance, and multiple glitches. It is also a vastly different game from the rest in the franchise, so ranking it low.

Mafia

I ranked the original game last simply because it seems like so many fans feel this game is outdated. It was a true masterpiece at its time, but with the sequels and the definitive remake out there, that makes this game my last choice for ranking all the Mafia games.

Truly, all the games are chock full of that hip early Hollywood vibe and rich storytelling–and it’s not easy to choose a winner. All of these games hold value, so be sure to take the full journey if you can. But, at least this can give you some direction as to which games to try first.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Gaming and was syndicated with permission.

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