14 DAY TRIAL // All those who have not played the original Godfather game should be on the lookout for horse heads (presumably digital) making their way towards their desktops as Electronic Arts and Paramount Digital Entertainment have just announced that they plan to release the second game in the series on March 6, on the Xbox 360 from Microsoft, the PlayStation 3 from Sony and the PC. The two companies have also revealed some details related to pre-orders and a little more on what the game would be like.
The main change introduced in The Godfather II is the fact that the main focus is taken off the action sequences and more time is invested in the strategic aspect involved in running a crime family. The entire Mob inspired stuff introduced in the original game will still be there. You will be able to break some faces, shoot a few rivals, hit banks and escape chases like an 80's mobster. All of this will be done using a new and improved graphics engine that makes crime look especially pretty.
But players will find that they spend more time in the all new Don's View. In itself, it's a 3D interface, which at a glance offers a player the chance to see how their criminal empire is faring. The game will take place in three cities and, for each of them, a different strategy will have to be implemented. In order for the business to prosper, muscle will need to be hired, taking into account the specialties of each henchman. Corrupt officials will need to be bribed, business owners require some threats to pay their protection bills and rival families need to be kept at arm’s length.
Pre-ordering the title will get players a chance to begin the game with a crew member called Tommy Cipolla, who has the ability to use a level two weapon from the start, while also knowing quite a bit about lighting fires and healing wounds, making him an invaluable addition to the family at the beginning of the game.
Be ready to take your chance and be the Don on March 6, as The Godfather II launches.