Saints Row 2
" Open-world action game with extensive customization and fun combat but poor PC optimization "
Saints Row 2 Review
Saints Row 2 is widely regarded as a classic open-world action-adventure game that holds a special nostalgic place for many players, especially those who experienced it on Xbox 360. The game is praised for its extensive customization options, engaging storyline, and vibrant world of Stilwater filled with unique characters and diverse gangs. Players appreciate the depth of the main missions, side activities, and the detailed environments that make exploration rewarding.
However, the PC port of Saints Row 2 is notorious for its technical issues, including frequent crashes, lag, and poor optimization. Many players recommend using the fan-made Juiced Patch or purchasing the GOG version for a more stable experience. Despite these problems, the gameplay, story, and overall fun factor remain strong, making it a beloved title in the franchise. The game’s humor and soundtrack also add to its charm, though some find the humor outdated.
Highlights
Players especially praise the gameplay mechanics such as driving, combat, and the variety of missions. The character customization is a major highlight, offering a wide range of options for personalizing avatars, vehicles, and cribs.
The storyline is well-received for its blend of serious and humorous moments with memorable characters and rival gangs. The detailed open world of Stilwater with accessible interiors enhances immersion.
Despite dated graphics, the game’s atmosphere and soundtrack, featuring memorable radio tracks, are celebrated for adding depth and nostalgia.
Criticisms
The most common criticism is the poor PC port, which causes frequent crashes, lag, and instability, severely impacting the gameplay experience without mods or patches. Many players warn that the game is nearly unplayable on modern systems without the Juiced Patch or the GOG version.
Other complaints include outdated graphics, some repetitive mission structures, and issues with co-op mode such as mission sync problems and buggy cutscenes. The humor, while appreciated by some, is considered outdated by others. Additionally, some players feel the racing elements were simplified compared to the original game.
Pros
- • Extensive character and vehicle customization options enhance player immersion and creativity.
- • Engaging storyline with a mix of serious and humorous moments keeps players invested.
- • Open world of Stilwater is detailed with many accessible interiors and vibrant NPCs.
- • Driving mechanics are considered the best in the Saints Row franchise.
- • Varied side activities and main missions provide hours of diverse gameplay.
- • Memorable soundtrack and radio stations add to game atmosphere and nostalgia.
- • Unique and well-developed gang characters enrich the game’s narrative depth.
Cons
- • PC port is poorly optimized causing frequent crashes and lag without mods.
- • Game can be unstable even with patches, requiring community fixes to play smoothly.
- • Outdated graphics may not appeal to modern players used to higher fidelity.
- • Co-op mode suffers from mission sync issues and buggy cutscenes.
- • Some missions and activities feel repetitive and lack variety.
- • Racing gameplay was simplified compared to the original Saints Row.
- • Humor is considered outdated and may not suit all players.
Rating Criteria
Saints Row 2 brings true freedom to open-world gaming. Players can play as who they want, how they want, and with whomever they want in this sequel to the much acclaimed and tremendously successful Saints Row.
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