Saints Row for Windows

Reboot of a beloved action-adventure

Saints Row is a premium action-adventure game from Volition and Deep Silver. It is the reboot of the 2006 title of the same name, offering the same fast-paced gameplay for both single-player and multiplayer modes. This time, you are brought into the fictional city of Santo Ileso where you’ll build your own gang and attempt to conquer the city.

It features a new location and gameplay mechanics, but Saints Row remains in the gray for several reasons. Still, it’s worth a try and can be remediated in future fixes and DLCs, much like Grand Theft Auto V.

A new spin on a beloved franchise

It was initially described as a GTA-inspired game, but the Saints Row franchise has now created a name for itself. Thanks to its more outlandish content and online multiplayer capabilities, it soon developed its own player base that has persisted throughout the years. This entry reboots the franchise yet retains the fully functional multiplayer format, which works well with its new and larger open-world map.

Another improvement in this game is the overhauled driving system, making it easier to use weapons with vehicles. However, it’s largely plagued by bugs, making the game almost comparable to the infamous release of Cyberpunk 2077. There are instances where the world doesn’t load correctly, leaving you in a dark dimension. There are also cases where other models get stuck in a T-pose, or the scope does not revert after.

Also, it’s worth noting that fans of the original game might get disappointed because some of the beloved Easter eggs are no longer in the reboot. The violence is toned down, and some outrageous weapon designs that are too mature are removed from the game. It feels like a new game altogether when compared to the older titles in the franchise.

Key enhancements and thrilling additions

Fans of Saints Row can now expect an enhanced gaming experience following the deployment of new updates by the dedicated development team. Beyond DLC, they have focused on several new features and free content, aiming to better the core gaming mechanics for the game’s devoted fan base. Among some of the essential improvements is a revamped save game feature, which tackles crucial issues like game crashes caused by certain actions. 

Broadening the gaming experience, the game seamlessly integrates two new story expansions to add depth to the storyline. This exciting feature brings to life new enemies, immersive cutscenes, and a whole spectrum of narrative elements for players to explore. An unexpected twist is the introduction of the single-player mode, which accommodates players who prefer to experience the game at their personal pace.

However, gaming isn’t just about the narrative and mechanics; customization is also a core part of the immersive experience. The game also infuses creativity by presenting players with an array of options, such as cheats, selfie mode, and even more city exploration. There’s also the incorporation of an emote wheel for character expression, combat refinements for more accurate fighting mechanics, and a myriad of free cosmetics to customize bosses.

A rough release

It may have toned-down materials to suit the modern social climate, but the Saints Row reboot remains a promising entry that could take the franchise in a different direction moving forward. It has an all-new map that promises to create a new gameplay experience, both for single and multiplayer modes. Of course, fans of the original franchise would find this alienating because of the reduced mature content.