Video games have long been a form of entertainment, allowing players to explore different worlds, immerse themselves in storytelling, and experience perspectives beyond their own. However, some games go beyond mere entertainment and serve as powerful commentaries on real-world issues. Mafia III, developed by Hangar 13 and published by 2K Games in 2016, is one such title that doesn’t shy away from addressing racism in America. Set in 1968 in the fictional city of New Bordeaux (a reimagined version of New Orleans), Skipthegame places players in the shoes of Lincoln Clay, a biracial Vietnam War veteran who returns home only to face racial injustice, systemic discrimination, and the brutal reality of segregation.
A Story Rooted in Historical Reality
Mafia III is not just another open-world crime game. While it follows the traditional mob revenge narrative, its deeper themes make it stand out. Lincoln Clay, the protagonist, is an African American man who has been shaped by his experiences as a soldier. Upon returning home, he finds himself entangled in the world of organized crime after his adoptive family is brutally murdered by the Italian Mafia. His quest for vengeance, however, is constantly overshadowed by the racial oppression of the era.
The game masterfully integrates racism into the gameplay and narrative. From police response times being slower in white neighborhoods to racial slurs being hurled at Lincoln, Mafia III does not attempt to sanitize the harsh realities of the 1960s. This attention to historical accuracy makes the game more than just a revenge story—it becomes a sobering reflection on racial inequality.
Gameplay Reflecting Racial Tensions
Unlike many other open-world games, Mafia III ensures that racism isn’t just an aesthetic backdrop—it’s woven into the gameplay mechanics. Some notable examples include:
- Police Bias: The in-game police system is influenced by race. In predominantly white areas, law enforcement is quick to respond to Lincoln’s crimes, while in black neighborhoods, police are far less vigilant. This mirrors the racial disparities in policing that existed in 1960s America—and still persist today.
- Hostile NPCs: Throughout the game, white non-playable characters often make racist remarks towards Lincoln. Some refuse to serve him in shops, and others react with hostility simply because of his race.
- Segregation in Society: The game world features segregated restaurants, clubs, and establishments, accurately portraying the Jim Crow laws that were still in effect at the time.
By incorporating these elements, Mafia III forces players to confront the systemic racism of the era, making Lincoln’s struggle feel personal and real.
A Bold Narrative Choice
Unlike other games in the Mafia series, which primarily focus on the Italian Mafia, Mafia III takes a bold step by putting a black protagonist at the center of its story. This was a rare choice in the gaming industry at the time and was met with both praise and criticism. Some players appreciated the game’s willingness to tackle difficult themes, while others felt uncomfortable with its direct portrayal of racial issues.
However, Hangar 13’s developers made it clear that they wanted to tell an authentic story, even if it was uncomfortable. The game includes a disclaimer at the beginning, stating that while the developers do not condone racism, they chose to depict it accurately to reflect the historical period. This decision gives Mafia III a sense of authenticity and weight that few games achieve.
Why Mafia III Still Matters Today
Nearly a decade after its release, Mafia III remains relevant in conversations about racism, social injustice, and representation in video games. The issues it highlights—police brutality, racial discrimination, and economic disparity—are still prevalent in today’s society. The game serves as a reminder that racism isn’t just a thing of the past; it continues to affect people’s lives today.
Moreover, Mafia III helped pave the way for more diverse storytelling in video games. Games like Red Dead Redemption 2, The Last of Us Part II, and Detroit: Become Human have since explored racial and social themes with greater depth, proving that video games can be a powerful medium for addressing real-world issues.
Conclusion
While Mafia III is, at its core, a game about crime, revenge, and power, its most striking feature is how it exposes players to the harsh realities of racism. By integrating racial discrimination into its mechanics and narrative, it challenges players to confront an uncomfortable truth: the America of the 1960s was deeply divided, and the scars of that era are still visible today.
For those who appreciate video games as a storytelling medium, Mafia III is more than just another crime saga—it’s a compelling, unfiltered look at a difficult chapter in American history. It reminds us that games are not just for entertainment but can also serve as powerful tools for social awareness and change.
