This phrase denotes video games that share significant thematic and mechanical similarities with the title Mafia III. These similarities can include open-world environments with organized crime themes, narrative-driven gameplay focusing on revenge and power struggles, and gameplay mechanics that incorporate elements of driving, shooting, and hand-to-hand combat. Examples include titles such as Grand Theft Auto IV, L.A. Noire, and Sleeping Dogs, all of which present engaging narratives within expansive urban landscapes and often involve the player character navigating morally ambiguous situations.
Understanding the characteristics of titles analogous to Mafia III benefits players seeking similar gaming experiences. This understanding helps in identifying titles that provide comparable levels of immersion, storytelling depth, and gameplay styles. The historical context reveals a trend of open-world crime games that have evolved in sophistication, both in terms of graphical fidelity and narrative complexity, providing players with ever more compelling and believable virtual worlds.