Game Details
| Size | 807 MB |
| Region | USA |
| Genre | Action |
| Format | 7z / ISO |
| Year | September 19, 2006 |
| Console | PSP |
The Godfather: Mob Wars (2006) is a fascinating “hybrid” port of the open-world console game. Because the PSP couldn’t handle the full Grand Theft Auto-style open world of the PS2 version, the developers split the game into two distinct modes: a linear action shooter and a strategic board game.
The Two Faces of Mob Wars
Unlike the console versions where you drive around NYC, Mob Wars is divided into two playstyles:
1. The Story Mode (Action)
This consists of the main cinematic missions from the console game.
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Linear Progression: You don’t drive to missions; you select them from a menu.
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The “BlackHand” Control: Adapted for the PSP, the combat uses a lock-on system. You can punch, strangle, and use a variety of firearms to climb the ranks from “Outsider” to “Don.”
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Execution Moves: The game retained the brutal contextual kills (throwing people off balconies, slamming them into walls) that made the original a hit.
2. Mob Wars Mode (Strategy)
This is the PSP-exclusive feature. It plays like a digital board game (similar to Risk or Monopoly).
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The Map: New York is divided into territories owned by the Five Families (Corleone, Tattaglia, Cuneo, Stracci, and Barzini).
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Turn-Based Moves: You play cards to recruit mobsters, take over businesses (rackets), or sabotage rivals.
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Real-Time Takeovers: When you “move” onto a rival business on the board, the game switches back to a 3D third-person shooter where you must physically clear the building to claim it.
Key Features: The Underworld Experience
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Character Creator: You can fully customize your mobster’s face, build, and clothing.
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The Card System: In the strategy mode, you collect “Command Cards” that grant special abilities, like “Police Bribery” or “Building Bombing,” to swing the tide of the turf war.
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Intimidation: To take over a business, you have to lean on the shopkeeper. You have to scare them enough to pay “protection money” without pushing them so far that they fight back or die.
Short Review: Strategy vs. Action
The Good
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Strategic Depth: The Mob Wars board game mode is surprisingly addictive. It adds a layer of “Grand Strategy” that the console versions lacked.
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High Production Value: The soundtrack, voice acting, and cinematic cutscenes are top-tier for a handheld.
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Combat Feel: The guns feel heavy and powerful, and the “intimidation” mechanic remains one of the best “mob” features in gaming.
The Bad
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No Free-Roam: The biggest disappointment for many was the removal of the ability to drive around the 1940s New York City.
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Repetitive Rackets: Taking over businesses in the strategy mode eventually feels the same; you’ll find yourself clearing the same warehouse layout multiple times.
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Performance: Occasional framerate dips occur when too many mobsters are on screen during a shootout.

