Hangar 13, the developer of the upcoming Mafia: The Old Country, has confirmed the game will feature authentic Sicilian voice acting, addressing fan concerns stemming from the initial Steam page listing.
Addressing Fan Backlash
The initial Steam listing for Mafia: The Old Country showcased full audio support for several languages, notably omitting Italian. This omission sparked considerable controversy amongst fans, given the game's Sicilian setting and the historical connection between the Mafia and Italy. Many felt the exclusion was disrespectful.
Hangar 13 responded swiftly on Twitter (now X), emphasizing the game's commitment to authenticity. The developers stated that Mafia: The Old Country will use authentic Sicilian dialect for its voice acting, reflecting the game's 1900s Sicily setting. They also clarified that Italian language localization will be available through subtitles and in-game UI.
The Choice of Sicilian Dialect
The decision to utilize Sicilian, rather than standard Italian, is a deliberate choice driven by a commitment to historical accuracy and linguistic nuance. Sicilian, while closely related to Italian, possesses distinct vocabulary and cultural undertones. This linguistic diversity, influenced by Greek, Arabic, Norman French, and Spanish, reflects Sicily's unique historical position at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. This aligns with the "gritty realism" promised by 2K Games.
Looking Ahead
Mafia: The Old Country, described as a "gritty mob story set in the brutal underworld of 1900s Sicily," is anticipated to offer a deeper dive into the Mafia's origins. While a precise release date remains unannounced, 2K Games has hinted at further reveals in December, potentially during The Game Awards.
