"Mafia 3" and "Grand Theft Auto" (5 or 6) may seem similar at first glance. Both are open-world sandbox worlds where crime is the main highlight. However, depending on what players are looking for, they may not be the same at all.

Comparing the two is a common thing, but it could arguably be like comparing an apple and an orange. Both seem similar on the surface, but they have big differences. Aside from the story, here are the significant differences between that two that may help players decide which one to get;

Controllable Characters

With "Grand Theft Auto 5," players will be able to control multiple characters in the game. All have their own story arcs and facades. One's a retired criminal, another one's a worse criminal who wants to be back in action,and another is just a normal errand guy we all got used to with the "Grand Theft Auto" series.

"Mafia 3," on the other hand, only allows players to control one character. This, however, focuses more with the protagonists story. Players will get more involved and be attached with the main character.

Not a deal-breaker for both, but if players want more diversity and want to see the "other side of the coin," "Grand Theft Auto 5" definitely wins here.

Story

"Mafia 3," being the game with only one character, is fixated into a single focus. Have Lincoln Clay exact revenge. The protagonist's goal is to get back with the Italian mob who killed the black mob that he was a member before. He does this by building his own criminal organization.

"Grand Theft Auto 5" is greatly different. Having a better or worse story is subjective, but plenty of times, "GTA 5's" story could go from simply crazy to seriously insane. The plot is not as noble as "Mafia 3," but the writing is definitely witty. Criminal ring reunion, heists, robbery and other crazy stuff. "GTA 5" brings the criminal feel up-close and personal.

Gameplay

As with the former "Mafia 2," it could easily be expected that "Mafia 3" would have an equally, if not better, action set pieces. The game's icing on the cake is the story and the gunfight. However, it could be possible that exploration could still be limited.

"Mafia 3" could possibly have a bigger world to explore, but that is not to tell that there's an assurance that players would actually be able to utilize the environments for tasks. Afterall, Lincoln might not have the free time to do various tasks not related to his revenge. We'll see about it soon enough.

This is where "Grand Theft Auto 5" shines brighter. Exploration is big factor to the series' fame. With a story that can be not taken too seriously, controllable characters can be involved with various tasks and mission, which have no real significance to the story at all.

By miles, "Grand Theft Auto 5" wins if exploration is considered. If the player's preferences are playthroughs without having to spend hundreds of hours, "Mafia 3" is a good choice.