Saints Row: The Third

Developer: Volition
Release: Nov 14th 2011
Platforms:
Action
Funny
Chaotic
Customizable
Buggy
Outdated
Saints Row: The Third Poster

" Chaotic action game with extensive customization and humor but occasional bugs and glitches "

Saints Row: The Third Review

Saints Row: The Third is widely regarded as a highly entertaining open-world game that blends a captivating, comical storyline with chaotic and absurd gameplay. Players appreciate its humorous tone, memorable characters, and the freedom to customize characters and vehicles extensively. The game is praised for its fun mechanics in driving, shooting, and flying, as well as cooperative multiplayer that enhances the experience. The world is filled with diverse side activities and a great soundtrack that complements its wild style. While the graphics are decent for its era, some technical issues like occasional bugs and frame drops near water are noted. The game is accessible in difficulty but offers moments of challenge, mainly due to AI behavior. It is considered a worthy purchase especially during sales, with replayability supported by its abundant content and DLCs. Despite some criticisms, Saints Row: The Third holds a special place as a cult classic balancing silliness and engaging gameplay.

Highlights

Players consistently praise the game's chaotic and hilarious gameplay that never takes itself seriously, making it a unique open-world experience. The character customization is highly appreciated, allowing for wild and unique player avatars. The storyline, while silly, is engaging and well-written enough to keep players hooked. The cooperative multiplayer mode is a standout feature, enhancing the fun and chaos. Additionally, the game’s soundtrack and diverse side missions add to the immersive and entertaining atmosphere.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the game's technical limitations such as occasional bugs, frame rate drops near water, and hitbox issues especially during vehicle chases. Some players feel the graphics are outdated compared to modern standards and note that the story can sometimes feel disjointed or less compelling than previous entries. There are also remarks on the game’s difficulty spikes caused by AI behavior. Lastly, the price is best justified when purchased on sale, as some consider it less valuable at full price.

Pros

  • Extensive character and vehicle customization options enhance player creativity.
  • Humorous and absurd storyline keeps players entertained throughout.
  • Cooperative multiplayer mode adds significant replay value and fun.
  • Diverse side activities provide endless gameplay variety and engagement.
  • Smooth and accessible driving, shooting, and flying mechanics.
  • Great soundtrack with licensed music fitting the game’s wild tone.
  • Open world encourages chaotic and spontaneous gameplay moments.

Cons

  • Occasional bugs and glitches can disrupt gameplay immersion.
  • Frame rate drops notably when near water environments.
  • Hitbox issues sometimes cause unfair vehicle or character collisions.
  • Graphics feel dated compared to modern open-world games.
  • Storyline occasionally feels inconsistent or less compelling.
  • AI behavior can create frustrating difficulty spikes.
  • Some side missions and activities feel rough or underdeveloped.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Get ready for the most out-landish gameplay scenarios ever seen as the Third Street Saints take on the Syndicate!

Release Date Nov 14th 2011
Publisher Deep Silver
Developer Volition
Required Age 17+
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (18,625)
95% Positive 5% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
84