Speaking of UE5 being trash, I must say Mafia ended strong. Lots of beautiful looking areas towards the end. I still think it has that cross gen feel to it because it only looks next gen like 50% of the time, but when it looks next gen, it looks next gen. The game is still very simple and plays like a ps2 game so dont go in expecting great gameplay. Only slightly better than Alan Wake 2 and Hellblade 2. But the story does pick up half way through and ends strong.
I was reading Peter Jackson's explanation of why he hasnt made any movies in the last 12 years, and he said his cinematographer was the main reason why the movies looked so good, and he doesnt want to work with anyone else. Part of why Mafia looks amazing at one point, and exceedingly average another is because the lighting just doesnt work. I understand its tough to light an open world game at all times, but there are a lot of interiors and vistas that just look dated. A little more work couldve made it look literally the best looking game last year. My guess is that its a budget issue than a talent one because there are so many times where the cinematography in this game is absolutely top notch. Both in cutscenes and during gameplay.