Tips for New Players in Mafia: The Old Country

Select Language:

Mafia: The Old Country” follows Enzo’s journey as he climbs the ranks in the Torrisi family. While he has a lot to learn, he quickly picks up the skills needed. However, there are some things that Luca can’t teach you about making the most of the game.

From surviving to exploring, here are some tips to help you get started in the scenic yet dangerous Sicilian valley where mafia clans compete for control. Check out these tips, and share your own strategies in the comments if you’ve found effective methods.

### Save Whetstones and Bandages for Critical Moments
The two main consumables in the game are Bandages, which heal your health, and Whetstones, which improve your knife’s durability. Since both are limited, it’s crucial to use them only when necessary. Using a Bandage or Whetstone fully restores health or durability, regardless of how bad the situation seems, so it’s best to save them for when you’re almost dead or your knife is about to break.

### Upgrade the Crucifix as Early as Possible
Your character’s charms are essential for customizing Enzo. While weapons have minor effects, charms truly enhance your build. Focus early on upgrading the rosary with Silver and then Gold crucifixes to increase the number of beads you can carry. Having more beads means more bonuses and less need to switch charms frequently during missions. Until your crucifix is upgraded, you’ll likely switch between charms like Fantasma during stealth and Fortunato or Caricato during gunfights.

### Don’t Worry Too Much About Collectibles on Your First Playthrough
The story takes center stage, with no side quests to distract you. Collectibles, such as newspapers, are a fun extra after you finish the game. Most charms can be found during story missions if you keep an eye out. Aside from charms, collectibles don’t significantly affect gameplay. If you want extra cash, you can sell Trinacria, but since they only fetch 100 dinari each, it probably isn’t worth traveling far for. Play through the story first, then return to gather collectibles later using the Chapter Replay feature to reattempt specific missions.

### Use Stilettos
There are three knife types, each with different traits, but stilettos are the most practical due to their durability. A tougher knife means you won’t run out of blades during lockpicks or backstabs as quickly. While Rasolus knives are better in combat, stilettos will be your reliable everyday weapon for most tasks, efficiently handling your needs.

### Fight Carefully and Defensively
Focusing on defense during knife fights and shootouts pays off. You can take a few hits without dying, but reckless behavior can turn dangerous fast. Limit yourself to one- or two-hit combos, and wait for enemies to attack. When they do, dodge or parry and then counterattack. If an opponent raises their arm to block, they usually wait a couple of seconds before attacking again. Seize the chance to land a strike and break their guard before continuing.

### Shoot Strategically, Not Haphazardly
Take about a second to aim your pistols or rifles fully—this will help you hit your target more often. Watch for enemies pausing their fire or reloading, then shoot when they’re vulnerable. Shotguns are effective at close range without aim delay, perfect for dealing with flanking enemies or tough heavies. Always try to stay behind cover to stay safe.

### Avoid Melee Attacks When Possible
Once enemies are aware of you, melee attacks are usually only effective if you have a Rasolu-style knife equipped. But even then, it’s better to keep your distance. Headshots are faster and safer than knife takedowns, which are slow and leave you vulnerable to other enemies. When enemies are nearby, shooting at them and then retreating is often the best strategy.

### Slow Down While Driving
The old-fashioned cars in the game are fun and can reach good speeds, but Sicily’s hilly terrain and sharp curves make high-speed driving risky. Ease into turns by letting off the gas in advance, or attempt a risky handbrake drift—though it can spin out easily. Practice is needed because this isn’t like GTA; it’s more realistic and requires patience.

### Loot Every Fallen Enemy
Looting enemies after fights is a great way to gather extra money, ammo, and useful items. Since money only becomes available during missions, take the time to search every foe’s pockets. Looting can mean the difference between going into the next fight in good shape or running out of bullets and bandages. During battles, you can loot nearby enemies for quick supplies, but it’s safer to grab their weapons from the ground rather than risking getting too close.

### Use Loot Boost Charms
If you’re in a tight spot, equipping beads like Fortunato, Astuto, or Economico increases the quantity and quality of loot drops, giving you more resources to survive tough encounters.

—

This version simplifies the language, maintains all key details, and presents the advice in a natural, human tone, avoiding any AI-detection cues.