Title: Saints Row The Third
Type of Game: Action-adventure, Open-world
Developer: Volition
Publisher: THQ (original release), Deep Silver (remastered)
Released: November 15, 2011
Platforms Available: Xbox, Pc Game, PlayStation, Nintendo, Steam Deck
Platform Reviewed: PC Game
Level of Maturity: Mature (17+)
Reading Time: 12 minutes
A Heist Gone Wrong Setting the Tone
From the moment I stepped into the shoes of the Third Street Saints’ leader, I knew I was in for something different. The bank heist went wrong that starts the game sets the tone perfectly, similar to GTA V! This wasn’t going to be your average open-world experience. I was immediately thrown into the deep end, and I enjoyed most of it.
Building an Empire Property and Strategy
Taking over Steelport became a major part of my playthrough. It’s not just about completing main story missions, there is much more to it, I found myself engaged in a variety of activities. The property acquisition system quickly became one of my favorite aspects. I’d spend time buying up businesses for a steady income and unique bonuses or splurge on new weapons and vehicles. This constant decision-making aspect or you could say strategy kept me involved throughout the game.
Weapons of Mass Hilarity Combat Variety
The combat in Saints Row The Third is where I found some of the most fun. The gunplay feels responsive, with an arsenal that ranges from standard pistols and assault rifles to outlandish sci-fi options like the Mollusk Launcher and the Apoca-Fist. This variety kept combat interesting for me, even after many hours. I found myself seamlessly transitioning from shooting to melee combat to using superpowers (unlocked later in the game) without missing a beat. The wrestling-style takedowns I could perform on enemies became a favorite of mine.
Vehicular Mayhem Cars as Weapons
Vehicle combat is another highlight. Unlike many open-world games where cars feel like mere transportation, here they’re weapons. The “car surfing” mechanic, where I could leap onto moving vehicles and hijack them mid-drive, never got old. The progression system kept me going in a sense as well. As I completed missions and activities, I earned respect (XP) and cash, which is the main currency. Respect unlocked new abilities and upgrades, while cash let me purchase items and customize my character. These upgrades weren’t just cosmetic; they significantly impacted my gameplay. For example, upgrading my sprint allowed me to run indefinitely, making traversal more enjoyable.
The Awesome Button Elevating Everyday Actions
One of the most unique aspects of the gameplay that I enjoyed is the “Awesome Button” (usually mapped to the sprint button). This action button turns ordinary actions into extraordinary ones. Running becomes parkour, carjacking becomes a flying kick through the windshield, and jumping out of a car turns into an action movie-style roll. It’s a simple mechanic that adds excitement to even the most mundane activities for me.
Wacky and Wild Side Activities Galore
The variety of side activities in Saints Row The Third is impressive, especially for a dated game, and I found myself constantly distracted by them, which made me feel like I was in primary school again, playing GTA on my PS1. From the adrenaline-pumping “Tank Mayhem” where I wreaked havoc in a military tank, to the bizarre “Insurance Fraud” where I threw myself into traffic to rack up medical bills, each activity felt distinct. My favorite was “Professor Genki’s Super Ethical Reality Climax,” a deadly game show where I navigated trap-filled rooms while shooting mascots and collecting prizes. These activities were very fun and refreshing, and they ramped up my play time significantly.
Chaos and Customization Crafting Your Identity
The level of customization in this game is also pretty good, I like it a lot because I can customize my weapons and vehicles too. There’s something satisfying about mowing down enemies with a gold-plated assault rifle while driving a funny pink muscle car. The missions are well done. Sure, there’s a main storyline to follow, but how I get there is often up to me. I often found myself getting sidetracked on the way to a mission, engaging in impromptu street battles, or stumbling upon hidden collectibles.
Co-op Carnage Double the Destruction
Co-op play adds another dimension to the gameplay that I enjoyed. Teaming up with a friend turned the already chaotic experience into absolute mayhem. Coordinating attacks, sharing vehicles, and competing for the most outrageous stunts created memorable moments that solo play couldn’t match. I recall a particularly funny session where my co-op partner and I tried to complete a mission using only melee attacks and wrestling moves, turning a simple shootout into a ridiculous WWE-style brawl, and yes we did manage to beat it, I’m not going to tell you how long it took us though!
Air Superiority Vertical Combat Adventures
One of the most memorable gameplay elements for me was the use of airspace. Helicopters, jets, and even a VTOL jet (which I unlocked later in the game) allowed me to take the fight into the air, and it added a whole new dimension to both combat and exploration. The game also features a unique take on fast travel that I found both convenient and fun. Instead of simply teleporting, I could call in my homies to pick me up in a helicopter. This not only got me where I needed to go but could also drop me into the action from above, allowing for dramatic entrances. It made even simple travel feel epic. As I progressed through the game, the abilities I unlocked became increasingly sci-fi-like, resulting in superpowers that let me glide through the air or throw fireballs. These powers opened up new strategies and ways for me to approach challenges, keeping the gameplay fresh even in the late game.
The Final Verdict: A Symphony of Chaos
In conclusion, Saints Row The Third’s gameplay is all about fun. While it may not be the most realistic or grounded experience, it delivers entertainment from start to finish. Even years after its release, I still find myself coming back to it when I need a dose of wild chaos. There’s still nothing quite like Saints Row The Third.
Where to buy Saints Row The Third
Steam (PC): Available for $9.99. You can purchase it directly from Steam.
Xbox Store (Xbox One): Remastered Edition Available for $29.99. Check it out on the Xbox Store.
PlayStation Store (PS4): Remastered Edition Available for $39.99. You can find it on the PlayStation Store.
Nintendo Shop (Switch): Available for $29.99. Purchase it from the Nintendo Shop.
Epic Games Store (PC): Available for $29.99. Purchase it from the Epic Games Store.
GOG (PC): Available for $29.99 Purchase it from GOG.
Official Page: Visit the official Saints Row The Third page for more information.
Subreddit: Join the discussion on the Saints Row Subreddit.
