Mafia 3 screenshots taken from a pre-alpha version of the game have appeared online, showing off a few locales from the upcoming PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC sequel.

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The images were used by Seth Rosen, the game's systems designer, as part of his GDC presentation about bringing life to games with NPC behaviours. To fit in with this theme, the shots offer an early look at the streets of New Orleans, where the game is set, and some eye-catching inside environments too.

There are some really nice little touches that can be seen in each image that give life to the environment. For example, shop windows and neon signs make the streets feel moody, while groups of citizens make it look inhabited. Inside a jazz bar a live band can be seen on stage, while patrons either watch or sit off to the side enjoying drinks.

As previously announced, the game's protagonist is Lincoln Clay, a mixed-race man who grew up an orphan and later fought in the Vietnam War. He returns to New Orleans to establish a criminal organisation and oppose the Italian Mafia.

Mafia 3 developer Hangar 13, which is a new studio established by 2K Games, has said the game will tackle issues of racism and prejudice against black people that was present in the deep south during 1968. It will not, however, sensationalise racism.

Mafia 3 will be released sometime in 2016, but publisher 2K Games has not yet provided a specific release date. For lots more on Mafia III, check out GameSpot's preview from Gamescom.