Mafia II is an open-world action-adventure game set in the 1940s and 1950s. Players assume the role of Vito Scaletta, a war veteran who becomes involved in organized crime. The game features a narrative-driven story with missions centered around criminal activities, including heists and gunfights. It offers a detailed and immersive city environment, along with a mix of driving, combat, and exploration. Known for its cinematic storytelling and period-authentic setting, it provides a gritty, narrative-rich experience of the mobster life.