Summary
- Release Year: 2008
- Genres: Adventure, Racing, Shooter
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
- Developers: Volition
- Publishers: THQ
Saints Row 2: Retaking Stilwater, One Gang at a Time
Released in 2008, Saints Row 2 is an open-world action-adventure game that puts players in the shoes of the leader of the 3rd Street Saints, a street gang that has fallen on hard times. After awakening from a coma, the protagonist must rebuild the Saints and reclaim the city of Stilwater from three rival gangs: the Sons of Samedi, the Brotherhood, and the Ronin.
Gameplay
Saints Row 2 offers a vast and detailed open world to explore, with a variety of missions and activities to engage in. Players can choose from a wide range of weapons and vehicles to use in combat, and they can also customize their character’s appearance and skills.
The game’s combat is fast-paced and chaotic, and players can use a variety of weapons and abilities to take down their enemies. Players can also engage in hand-to-hand combat, and they can use environmental objects to their advantage.
In addition to the main storyline, Saints Row 2 offers a variety of side missions and activities, such as:
- Activities: Players can participate in a variety of activities, such as races, stunts, and challenges.
- Criminal Ventures: Players can establish criminal ventures, such as drug trafficking and prostitution, to generate income.
- Collectibles: Players can collect a variety of collectibles, such as bobbleheads and magazine covers.
Story
The story of Saints Row 2 is full of twists and turns, and it features a cast of memorable characters. The game’s humor is often over-the-top and outrageous, but it also has a surprisingly heartfelt story at its core.
After the events of the first Saints Row game, the protagonist awakens from a coma to find that the 3rd Street Saints have all but disappeared. The city of Stilwater is now controlled by three rival gangs: the Sons of Samedi, the Brotherhood, and the Ronin.
The protagonist must rebuild the Saints and reclaim Stilwater from the rival gangs. Along the way, they will make new allies and enemies, and they will learn more about the city’s dark secrets.
Characters
Saints Row 2 features a cast of memorable characters, each with their own unique personality and motivations. The protagonist is a customizable character, and players can choose their gender, race, and appearance.
Other notable characters in the game include:
- Johnny Gat: The protagonist’s loyal friend and second-in-command.
- Pierce Washington: A former police officer who joins the Saints.
- Shaundi: A skilled hacker and the Saints’ resident tech expert.
- Carlos Mendoza: A former member of the Los Carnales gang who joins the Saints.
Setting
Saints Row 2 is set in the fictional city of Stilwater, a sprawling metropolis with a rich history and culture. The city is divided into several districts, each with its own unique look and feel.
Stilwater is a dangerous city, but it is also a city of opportunity. The Saints must navigate the city’s criminal underworld and overcome the challenges that stand in their way.
Reception
Saints Row 2 was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its open-world gameplay, its humor, and its memorable characters. The game was also nominated for several awards, including Game of the Year.
Saints Row 2 has sold over 5 million copies worldwide, and it is considered to be one of the best open-world games of all time.
Legacy
Saints Row 2 has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s open-world gameplay and its over-the-top humor have been imitated by many other games. Saints Row 2 is also credited with helping to popularize the sandbox genre.
The Saints Row series has continued to grow and evolve since the release of Saints Row 2. The latest game in the series, Saints Row IV, was released in 2013. Saints Row V is scheduled to be released in 2023.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
