2K Games have announced a partnership between themselves and purveyor of finely written gentleman’s articles Playboy. Bringing 50 ‘vintage’ covers and centrefolds from the world famous magazine to the gangster filled streets of Mafia II, this move by 2K hopes to inject more authenticity into the universe of the open world crime series.
“While most mob-inspired games’ emphasis is solely on action, Mafia II features a deep and compelling narrative that is embellished with a sophisticated, era-evoking atmosphere,” says Christoph Hartmann, president of 2K. “In partnering with Playboy, we are able to add a unique element of authenticity to the game by using vintage images from the magazine that illustrate the power of Playboy’s influence on the attitudes and culture of that generation.”
What, like you've never sat around in your crackers, with a jazz mag on the table, while a male friend tries to look unaffected by the homo-erotic situation...
A cynic might say that this could just be one big publicity stunt on both parties, what with print media dwindling and with this Mafia title needing to distinguish itself in a dominated market, but we think this could be an interesting addition to the Q3 scheduled title that could help further embellish a richly detailed world.
And… you know… ladies in the buff are quite nice too.
You can find out more about Mafia II here: www.mafia2game.com