If you've spent time navigating the brutal underworld of 1900s Sicily, you know this title leans heavily into its narrative weight. The game traces the origins of organized crime through Enzo Favara, a protagonist whose transition from forced labor to the Torrisi crime family defines the experience. For players who felt that Enzo's desperate climb for survival resonated, this is the window to give that storytelling some official recognition on the Steam storefront.
Why the Narrative Category?
The "Outstanding Story-Rich Game" category is usually reserved for titles where the plot isn't just window dressing for the mechanics. In Mafia: The Old Country, the story dictates everything. The tension of proving your worth to the Cosa Nostra and the unforgiving nature of the era are woven directly into the mission structure. It’s a gritty, grounded look at how the mob started, stripping away the romanticism for a harder look at survival and ambition.
Is the Free Ride Update Live?
Yes. While the Steam Awards nomination is the time-sensitive news, Hangar 13 also confirmed that the Free Ride Update is now live for all players. This is a significant addition for anyone who wanted to explore the map without the pressure of the main campaign's pacing. The update introduces new modes, challenges, and collectibles scattered across the Sicilian landscape.
Free Ride modes have been a staple in the franchise, often acting as the best way to appreciate the world-building details that get blurred during high-speed chases. If you haven't logged in recently, this patch offers a good excuse to return to the game, even if just to hunt down the new collectibles or test out the classic difficulty mechanics introduced alongside it.
For those interested in the technical and creative process behind these updates, Hangar 13 has also released a developer commentary video providing a behind-the-scenes look at the game's ongoing development. Remember, if you plan to nominate the game, the deadline is December 1.