I think it's time for a harder look at the open world genre. Mafia III is definitely getting criticized for its structure (and rightfully so), much like Assassin's Creeed, inFamous, Just Cause, etc. A lot of people are saying that the open world is detracting from the story pacing and progression, and this is absolutely true. I think most players wanted quality set pieces like that of the district takeover missions throughout the entire game, and this calls into question why it was a fully open world game to begin with instead of a shorter, more tightly focused linear TPS game.
I think the visual presentation also leaves a lot to be desired, and so the gameplay flaws seem even more evident. In the Mafia 2 comparison video, features like eating, turning on light switches, getting shoes polished, are also welcome additions that add a bit to the immersion but have no gameplay significance(outside of health regen). I like these little details, there's a real attention to detail that seems neat. I don't mind that missing in Mafia III - and I hope they put out the vehicle and clothing customization soon.
As for the structure, it definitely seems off. It's kind of mind boggling to me how testers, designers and even writers felt like this pacing was appropriate. Now, keep in mind I love the shooting and driving and so getting to utilize those gameplay mechanics in little pockets to clear out rackets doesn't bother me. Even the side mission givers have wonderful dialogue in between the most mundane interrogation or enforcer assassination. But you've got to wonder why someone on Team Lead thought completing a Truck or Boat stealing mission more than a handful of times to strengthen earnings of rackets could be justified. Who felt like it was a good idea to use a single mission to build loyalty? It makes narrative sense in a lot of ways but the mission itself is not creative.
Speaking of shooting, I think it's important to address the fact that the core gunplay mechanics are just as strong, if not stronger, than the best TPS open world games. I'm seeing a ton of complaints about simple A.I., how stealth and whistling makes no sense(and leaves for some hilarious clipping issues), and how the gun play isn't as smart as Mafia 2. Outside of police attempting to apprehend you, I don't see this as a huge step out of line. People praising the Mafia 2 system must have some heavy nostalgia because here, A.I. will chase you down, walk up stairs to search for you, take cover, etc. - the exact same principles built on in that game. I would argue that it's better in combat because these open spaces you're fighting in have different layouts to take cover and stalk. This combat is as good, if not better than Mafia 2. And on PC, with interiors at a solid 60fps with Kb/m, shooting feels sublime.
I think New Bordeaux is a wonderfully crafted city. Each district does feel unique, even with the repetition of doing the same handful of tasks to take a piece of it over. But I will say this, the dynamic street fights in the game really suggest that there are some great systems at work. Getting chased by police, calling back up, getting flagged by a Sentry who runs to call for reinforcements - there are some great combat opportunities.
I like the game a lot, but open world tedium doesn't fatigue me. I've been taking the game slow, piece by piece, and this isn't a game that will hold a lot of gamers' attentions when the mission structure is exposed. I figure maybe more cinematic flair with the side characters would've helped - meeting Alma and Emmanuel for the first time led to some great scenes. But the follow ups of just standing robotically in front of them as they smoke and tell you little tidbits based on you pressing a button to interact takes something away from it, even if the writing is great.
