EA's first Godfather game was preceded by grandiose claims of setting new technological standards, but proved to be just another poorly executed GTA clone. Clearly, lessons have been learned, as the second instalment is infinitely superior.
It's still reminiscent of GTA: you play Dominic, newly made a Don in New York by Michael Corleone. The early action mirrors the film, as you escape from Cuba and, after taking over New York, expand to Miami (later, you return to Cuba). At first, this involves taking over rival mafiosi's businesses by eliminating the guards and intimidating the owner. But a decent Don-simulation engine elevates it from the ranks of GTA rip-offs, as you build and promote a team of "made" men, each with specific skills (like medicine, safecracking or arson) and promote and upgrade them.
Graphically, Godfather II is decent, and the same applies to the shooting engine and driving mechanics. Side-missions, which often yield the necessary info to eliminate rival Goodfellas, add an element of variety – although you do spend a lot of time doing the same thing but against more enemies. However, it has enough of the film's flavour to become compelling and addictive.
