There are a lot of video games out there and in this era of mobile and home-based gaming, the choices have never been greater. So how do you cut through the noise and find the “Best of” for any chosen topic?
Well, we’re here to help celebrate and shine a spotlight on some of the latest, greatest, and unforgettable games through the years.
For our ongoing series of articles depicting the best video games, our attention this time turns to games about gangsters. From phenomenal movie-themed games to titles with a goofy edge, you have a lot of games to whet your appetite.
Of course, if we’ve missed any of your favorites, feel free to comment below and we’ll get them added on!
Scarface: The World Is Yours
Scarface: The World Is Yours places players in the shoes of the legendary figure Tony Montana, the iconic protagonist from the movie “Scarface.” This game showcases the world of gangsters in a captivating light. It offers players a captivating narrative that throws them into a world rife with treachery, revenge, and the quest for power.
As Tony, players must rebuild their empire from scratch, reclaim territories, and exact vengeance upon those who wronged Tony. This game excels at highlighting the intricacies and problems that plague typical gangsters. It weaves together intense action sequences, character development, and a gripping narrative to create the ultimate gangster experience.
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is a beloved entry in the Grand Theft Auto series. It takes place in a fictionalized version of California, exploring three major cities and the surrounding countryside. The game provides an authentic depiction of urban gang culture, complete with rivalries, turf wars, and criminal activities. Players can engage in multiple side activities related to the field. Whether you want to deal drugs or rob restaurants for cash, Rockstar Games aimed to give players the definitive gangster experience.
The game’s protagonist Carl Johnson (CJ) is complex. Through CJ’s experience, players explore a story that tackles themes like family, loyalty, and betrayal. CJ involves himself with many notorious side characters who’ll leave an impact on you throughout your journey through Los Santos.
With its compelling lead, immersive world, and alluring gameplay, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is a gangster-themed game that’s worth your time.
The Godfather
The Godfather is a masterful game that excellently captures the essence of the gangster world portrayed in Francis Coppola’s iconic film of the same name. The game transports players to the dark underbelly of organized crime in 1940s New York. In it, you’ll experience the rise of the Corleone family and become a part of their powerful empire.
The Godfather’s immersive storytelling and the ways it expands upon Coppola’s film’s lore are astounding. You’re introduced to a cast of memorable characters, each with their own motivations and arcs. The game’s missions unfold with cinematic flair, capturing Coppola’s film’s atmosphere and tension well.
The gameplay combines action, stealth, and strategy. You’ll participate in a variety of different activities like contract killing and racketeering. On top of replicating Coppola’s soundtrack utilized in The Godfather film, the game is definitely worth your time and money.
Mafia (Series)
The Mafia game series is known for having engaging narratives, detailed environments, and immersive gameplay mechanics. Each installment delves into the criminal underworld, exploring themes like loyalty, power, and betrayal.
Mafia III, developed by Hangar 13, is a fine example of the series’s excellence at capturing the mafia essence. In it, you’ll control Lincoln Clay, a war veteran seeking revenge against the Italian mob for betraying his family.
Mafia III’s story unfolds through a series of emotionally charged missions, shedding light on Lincoln’s journey. It blends intense action sequences with deep character development, giving you an unforgettable experience that you don’t want to miss.
Yakuza: Like A Dragon
Yakuza: Like A Dragon is an outstanding game that delves into the world of gangsters. Unlike other entries, this one introduces a fresh protagonist by the name of Ichiban Kasuga. Its gameplay leans toward the turn-based RPG combat system route too. Nonetheless, players will adore this entry for its engrossing narrative, open world, and unique gameplay mechanics.
As Ichban, you’ll unravel the mysteries surrounding his former clan while helping him build his own crew of misfits. As you progress, you’ll grow attached to Ichiban’s character alongside the colorful people he meets during his journey. Moreover, Like A Dragon provides players with an immersive setting that’s filled with many exciting restaurants and engaging activities for you to complete.
If you love turn-based combat systems and are a fan of the Yakuza series, I’d recommend giving Yakuza: Like A Dragon a shot.
Saints Row: The Third
Saints Row: The Third delivers a thrilling gaming experience that’s on par with Rockstar Game’s GTA series. This game contains exaggerated action, bizarre humor, and an expansive environment for you to traverse. In it, you play as the leader of the Third Street Saints, a gang that has risen in prominence in Steelport City.
In Steelport City, you can participate in a variety of different activities from high-speed chases to intense shootouts. With the added abilities to world mind-boggling weapons and perform superhuman feats, the game’s absurdist take will leave you laughing and intrigued.
Together with its bountiful customization features, Saints Row: The Third grants players an excellent gaming experience revolving around the world of gangsters.
Sleeping Dogs
Sleeping Dogs immerses players with its gritty depiction of gangster life in Hong Kong. One of its strongest aspects lies in its storytelling. In it, you’ll control Wei Shen, an undercover cop who investigates the affairs of Hong Kong’s Triad gangs. Furthermore, you’ll witness people pledge their loyalty and betray each other in the most captivating manner possible.
The game’s combat system is fluid and precise. You’ll utilize a variety of martial arts moves and environmental attacks to overcome difficult fights. Additionally, the game contains fabulous high-speed chases to increase the game’s intensity.
If you love crime-themed games with lively worlds, fabulous combat systems, and compelling leads, give Sleeping Dogs a chance.
The Warriors
The Warriors is an under-the-radar gem from Rockstar’s catalog. This game gives players a darker look at 1970s New York City. The story revolves around a group known as The Warriors who struggle to survive in New York’s hostile streets. As you observe this world through a member’s eye, you’ll understand why loyalty, betrayal, and power are key traits associated with the gangster lifestyle.
Moreover, The Warriors utilizes a unique blend of gameplay mechanics. Players will compete in intense brawls and use different combat moves and weapons to prevail in bouts. The game includes some stealth elements to shake things up.
In addition to having players participate in gang-related activities such as tagging territory and robbing stores, The Warriors is an excellent blast from the past worth playing and appreciating.
Driver
Driver is an old PlayStation title developed by Reflections Interactive. In it, players follow an undercover police officer named Tanner. Tanner must infiltrate a notorious criminal organization and complete numerous missions. The missions will have him executing heists and gathering intel to bring down the city’s heinous criminal masterminds.
Driver’s gameplay replicates the thrilling vibes one would receive by watching a gangster-themed production. For instance, you’ll find yourself weaving through traffic and avoiding the police countless times throughout the game. Its realistic physics makes each chase feel intense and authentic.
If you’re looking for a game that will put you in the mind of a heist-conducting gangster, this is the one for you.
Empire of Sin
Empire of Sin gives players an authentic and historical take on gangster culture. It takes place in 1920s Chicago and thrusts players into a world of corruption, illicit activities, and drug wars as they build and manage their own criminal empires. Its attention to detail in regard to setting, characters, and the overall atmosphere is astonishing. It will make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time.
Moreover, Empire of Sin contains a deep and engaging gameplay experience. It mixes pieces of strategy, role-playing, and management simulation to give you something refreshing to play. You’ll find yourself making strategic decisions to expand territories and compete with rival factions. The game’s turn-based system is equally compelling and adds more complexity to it.
With its different approach to the crime genre, Empire of Sin is a worthy gangster-themed title that’s worth trying.
So, there we have it, our pick for the best gangster-themed video games through the years!
What do you think of our picks? Do you agree? Are there any notable omissions? Let us know in the comments below!