As major publishers push game prices toward $80, titles like Mafia: The Old Country and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 are testing a different approach—offering shorter, narrative-focused experiences at a lower price point.
Mafia: The Old Country Takes a Different Path
Hangar 13’s upcoming Mafia: The Old Country has set its price at $49.99, a notable contrast to the rising costs of blockbuster releases. The developers have made it clear that this isn’t an open-world title like Grand Theft Auto 6 or even Mafia III. Instead, it’s a linear, story-driven experience designed for players who want a cinematic adventure without an overwhelming time commitment.
2K President David Ismailer emphasized that the game caters to an audience looking for engaging narratives that don’t demand endless hours. While some fans hoped for a sprawling crime epic, the developers have stayed true to the series’ roots, drawing inspiration from the more focused storytelling of Mafia 1 and *2*.
A Shorter, More Focused Experience
Without multiplayer or an expansive open world, Mafia: The Old Country is expected to deliver a tight 10-15 hour campaign. Early reactions have been mixed—some fans miss the open-ended gameplay of past entries, while others welcome a more condensed, high-quality experience.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Proves the Model Works
Sandfall’s Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has already demonstrated the potential of this approach, selling over 2 million copies despite being available on Game Pass at launch. Its success has sparked discussions about whether mid-priced, narrative-driven games could become a sustainable trend.
Gamers Weigh In: Is $50 the Sweet Spot?
Online discussions reveal strong support for reasonably priced, high-quality experiences. Some players admit they’d hesitate at 70−80 but are more willing to take a chance at $50. Others appreciate the shift away from open-world fatigue, preferring a polished, story-focused game over one padded with repetitive side content.