Table of Contents

Exploring the Stones Unturned DLC Content

The "Stones Unturned" expansion for Mafia III brings a significant shift in tone and gameplay, moving beyond the streets of New Bordeaux into a high-stakes military thriller. This DLC centers on the relationship between Lincoln Clay and his long-time ally, John Donovan. Unlike the base game’s focus on mob politics, this expansion emphasizes brotherhood, tactical combat, and the pursuit of a dangerous mercenary named Connor Aldridge.

Players will find themselves traversing not only familiar territory in New Bordeaux but also a brand-new, dense jungle island. This location serves as the backdrop for uncovering classified secrets, tracking a downed military aircraft, and engaging in large-scale firefights that push the limits of Lincoln’s capabilities.

How to Access and Start the DLC

To begin your journey in "Stones Unturned," you must first meet specific progress requirements within the main campaign. The content is designed for players who have already established their presence in the criminal underworld.

  • Recruitment Requirement: You must have successfully brought all three of your Lieutenants—Vito Scaletta, Cassandra, and Thomas Burke—to your side.
  • Initiation: Once these conditions are met, head to the motel to speak with John Donovan. This conversation triggers the primary mission chain for the expansion.

If you have already completed these requirements, the DLC content will automatically integrate into your current save file. If you are starting a new game, ensure you reach the point where the Lieutenants are under your control before looking for Donovan at the motel.

Combat Mechanics and New Tactical Tools

The mercenaries led by Connor Aldridge are significantly better equipped than the typical mobsters you face in New Bordeaux. To balance this, the DLC introduces specialized tools designed for tactical superiority.

Enhanced Weaponry

Facing a well-armed mercenary force requires more than just standard pistols or submachine guns. "Stones Unturned" provides:

  • Heavy Ordnance: You gain access to an improved grenade launcher and a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launcher, perfect for neutralizing armored targets or clearing entrenched positions.
  • Sniper Service: By calling in Robert Marshall’s Sniper Service, you can effectively mark and eliminate high-priority enemies from a distance, which is particularly useful during the jungle island infiltration missions.

Vehicle-Mounted Combat

One of the most exciting additions is the ability to operate vehicle-mounted turrets. During specific chase sequences and combat encounters, you can jump into the back of a truck to provide cover fire for Donovan or take down pursuing enemies. This adds a cinematic, arcade-style intensity to the driving segments that were previously absent in the base game.

Bounty Hunting Missions

After completing the core narrative of "Stones Unturned," the gameplay loop expands through the Bounty Hunting system. By partnering with Robert Marshall, you can track down key targets hiding throughout New Bordeaux.

  • How it works: These missions focus on locating specific individuals who are causing trouble for your operations. You will need to track, corner, and subdue these targets.
  • Why participate: Beyond the narrative satisfaction of cleaning up the city, completing these missions is the only way to unlock the sporty De’Leo Stiletto vehicle and various custom decals for your fleet.

Rewards: Outfits and Vehicles

Customization is a key reward for tackling the challenges in this expansion. The "Stones Unturned" DLC offers specific aesthetic and functional rewards:

  • Jungle Camo Commando Garb: Ideal for the more serious, tactical missions where blending into the environment is a priority.
  • Party Animal Outfit: A more relaxed, casual look that fits the island atmosphere or a quick stop at a local café.
  • Griffin Borneo Sport: A heavy-duty vehicle that becomes available for your fleet once the main story missions are completed.

Tips for Success in the Jungle

The jungle island environment presents unique challenges compared to the urban sprawl of New Bordeaux. Here are some community-tested strategies:

  • Prioritize Mobility: The jungle is dense; don't rely solely on vehicles. Use the terrain to your advantage to flank mercenaries who are expecting a frontal assault.
  • Utilize Donovan: John Donovan acts as your wingman throughout the DLC. He is more than just a character in a cutscene; he will actively fight alongside you. Don't be afraid to let him draw fire while you maneuver into a better sniping position.
  • Manage Your Loadout: Because you are facing mercenaries with advanced gear, ensure your loadout includes at least one high-impact weapon (like the RPG or grenade launcher) before leaving for the island.

FAQ: Common Questions about Stones Unturned

Do I need to own the Season Pass to play this? No, "Stones Unturned" can be purchased individually on your preferred digital storefront. If you own the Deluxe Edition and have redeemed your Season Pass code, it will be added to your game automatically.

Is this DLC connected to the "Faster, Baby!" expansion? While both are paid expansions for Mafia III, they are independent story arcs. You do not need to finish "Faster, Baby!" to start "Stones Unturned," though both are recommended for a full experience of the game's post-launch content.

Can I use the new weapons in the main game? Yes, once you unlock the new weapons and vehicles through the DLC missions, they remain available for use throughout the rest of your campaign in New Bordeaux.

Related Guides

In this category

A Complete Guide to Mafia III DLC and Expansion Content

Explore the available downloadable content for Mafia III. Learn how to access expansions, manage your game library, and enhance Lincoln Clay's journey.

Continue reading
Related guide

Mafia III Best Weapons: Top Loadouts for Every Playstyle

Discover the best weapons in Mafia III to dominate the streets of New Bordeaux. Our guide breaks down top-tier pistols, rifles, and shotguns for stealth and combat.

Continue reading
Related guide

Mafia III Missions Guide: How to Play Any Mission Using Save Data

Discover how to manage Mafia III missions using all-missions save data. Learn how to bypass restrictions, replay specific events, and target Sal Marcano.

Continue reading
Explore next

Mafia III John Donovan: Story, CIA Ties, and Ending Explained

Explore John Donovan in Mafia III, including his CIA alliance with Lincoln Clay, gameplay wiretapping intel, and the post-credits JFK assassination twist.

Continue reading

References