Mafia: The Old Country Voice Acting Will Use Authentic Sicilian Rather Than Modern Italian

Hangar 13, the developer of the upcoming Mafia: The Old Country, has confirmed that the game will feature authentic Sicilian voice acting, addressing fan concerns sparked by the initial Steam page listing. The initial omission of Italian from the list of languages with full audio caused a backlash among fans, given the game's Sicilian setting and the Mafia's Italian origins.

The developers clarified on Twitter (X): "Authenticity is at the heart of the Mafia franchise. Mafia: The Old Country will offer voice acting in Sicilian, inline with the game’s setting in 1900s Sicily." They further assured fans that Italian language localization will be available for the in-game UI and subtitles.

The decision to utilize Sicilian dialect, distinct from modern Italian, reflects the game's commitment to historical accuracy and immersive realism. Sicilian's unique vocabulary and cultural nuances, shaped by its location at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, add a layer of authenticity to the game's narrative. This linguistic choice aligns with 2K Games' promise of "gritty realism" in their press release. The subtle differences, such as "scusa" (Italian for "sorry") versus "m'â scusari" (Sicilian), highlight the developers' dedication to detail.

This commitment to authentic Sicilian voice acting has been met with positive feedback from fans. The game, described as a "gritty mob story set in the brutal underworld of 1900s Sicily," is anticipated to offer a unique and immersive experience.

While a precise release date remains unannounced, 2K Games has hinted at a more detailed reveal in December, possibly coinciding with The Game Awards.

Further information on Mafia: The Old Country's announcement can be found in the linked article.