Parallel Mafia MMORPG

Summary

Parallel Mafia is a new game by the same people who brought you Parallel Kingdom. In Parallel Mafia the goal is to build and maintain a mafia web, as well as defend yourself against opponents and ruffians, and take their spots in the mob ranking system.

What do we make of Parallel Mafia? Read on to find out.

Test device: LG Optimus Speed P990
Android version: 4.0.4
Mods: Root + CustomROM

Parallel Mafia is a location-based game in which the gamer can select the location using GPS or localiser. The goal, as mentioned above, is the build a mob empire which can then be targeted against enemies. You can go at it alone, but building a gild-like mob clan is an interesting challenge.

First off, you will need to sign up or register using your login, password and email address. I very much appreciate that there's no need to disclose any personal information.

The first time you access the app (after having logged in) you will be guided through the process thanks to a brief tutorial.

Once you've tried your hand at the tutorial you can get cracking. You will find yourself surrounded by computer generated enemies. If you find yourself hurt, swallow a few painkillers, they will help you heal faster.

Keep an eye on the chat box because this is where you can dialogue with other gamers. There are lots of different categories within the chat which you can de/activate according to what you're interested in.

As you play you will build up your experience score and – as is the case in most role-playing games – the more experience you have, the more abilities you have. Use the menu to access your PMs, the building mode, character information for other players, travel mode, chat and credits.

The inventory is self explanatory and contains everything you might need when crusading through the mob world. Read up on all the different items if you're curious.

The PMs (private messages) are for communicating with other players as well as the systems admins.

The building mode is one of the most important features within the game. Use it to build your very first building and, eventually, your empire.

If you want to find out more about yourself check out the Character Info feature. This is where you can see what level you've reached, your mob buddies as well as lots of useful infos related to the game.

Credits can be purchased using real money or by installing other apps. Credits can then be used to gain some advantages, get through levels faster or buy items.

Bottom line:

I've been enjoying Parallel Mafia. It's fun, it's fast, it's challenging and the app won't keep running when you end the game.

The Parallel Mafia controls are very easy and intuitive. Double click in order to move around and single click on an opponent in order to perform a variety of optional actions. Information related to this opponent may be displayed and/or you can attack an opponent (with fists or Molotov Cocktails).

The menu and sub-menus are set up in a very logical way—and I particularly like the way the game itself is set up. You start off with a map view but can then switch to satellite, which means you can even set the location to your very own neighbourhood. This is the first time I've ever come across anything of the sort in a casual game.

The major drawback here are clearly the graphics. There's a lack of attention to detail (which bothered me with the graphics for buildings in particular) and it isn't possible to see very much of what's happening around you, meaning you have no choice but to swipe, swipe, swipe away in the hopes of scouting out everything happening around you.

Parallel Mafia performed very well throughout our test runs, even when in satellite view mode. Everything loads within the blink of an eye and the app is stabile and reliable overall.

Parallel Mafia is available for free download from the App Center. Credits can be purchase with real money, but this isn't essential to playing and/or enjoying the game.