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Saints Row: The Third Remastered

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Saints Row: The Third Remastered
Item: Saints Row: The Third Remastered
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2020

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Open World, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing

AvailableMay 22, 2020

PlatformPlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Xbox Series X

DeveloperSperasoft

Overview

Saints Row: The Third Remastered gives you control of the Saints at the height of their power, and you live the life to show for it. This is your City. These are your rules. Remastered with enhanced graphics, Steelport the original city of sin, has never looked so good as it drowns in sex, drugs and guns. Years after taking Stilwater for their own, the Third Street Saints have evolved from street gang to household brand name, with Saints sneakers, Saints energy drinks and Johnny Gat bobblehead dolls all available at a store near you. The Saints are kings of Stilwater, but their celebrity status has not gone unnoticed. The Syndicate, a legendary criminal fraternity with pawns in play all over the globe, has turned its eye on the Saints and demands tribute. Refusing to kneel to the Syndicate, you take the fight to Steelport, a once-proud metropolis reduced to a struggling city of sin under Syndicate control. Take a tank skydiving, call in a satellite-targeted airstrike on a Mexican wrestling gang, and fight against a highly-trained military force by your lonesome in the most outlandish gameplay scenarios ever seen. Weapons of Crass Destruction – It’s one thing to defeat your enemies. It’s another to humiliate them. Hover jets, human cannonball cars and outrageous melee weapons are all part of the fun. Crazy Character Customisation – Create the most outlandish characters ever seen, from washed-up celebrities to maskless ninja pirates. Inside every sinner, there is a Saint. Who will you become? Over The Top Co-op – Fly solo or play online with a homie. Give freefall skydiving a try, landing in your partner’s flaming pickup as you make a desperate run toward a heavily armed Syndicate base. Steelport is always more fun with a friend. All DLC included – All three expansion mission packs and 30 pieces of DLC from the original version.

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Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Saints Row: The Third Remastered are largely positive. Many critics praise the game's comedic and over-the-top narrative, which is filled with humor, silliness, and absurdity. AusGamers describes the story as a "Looney Tunes world of excess and silliness," while Cubed3 mentions the "constant jokes and amusing, smartly written humor." The narrative is said to be enjoyable, with character interactions having nice touches for fans of the previous games, according to GameGrin. The story follows the Third Street Saints gang as they fight against the Syndicate in the city of Steelport, providing a hilarious and truly bizarre experience, as stated by Windows Central. The game's focus on comedy and the likability of its characters, as mentioned by Comicbook.com and DualShockers, further contribute to the positive reception of the story. However, there are some criticisms regarding the story of Saints Row: The Third Remastered. PC Invasion notes that the story is shallow, but compensates for it with crazy shenanigans and crass humor. Player 2 mentions that while the story missions are ridiculous and absurd, some of the humor has dated poorly and is considered offensive in modern society. Slant Magazine points out that the game suffers from an identity crisis in terms of its story, with a mix of serious and comedic elements that may not always blend well together. Trusted Reviews also mentions that the game's narrative is a weird mix of attempted drama and humor, with only some of it landing successfully. The scattershot nature of the game's story, focusing on seemingly random connections between missions, and the lack of development for the supporting cast are also mentioned as negatives by Worth Playing. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story of Saints Row: The Third Remastered is a wild, over-the-top, and hilarious experience. The game's comedic tone, absurdity, and likable characters are widely praised. IGN, in particular, mentions that the story is worth seeing through and has two equally funny endings. The game's ability to provide a compelling parody of the open-world genre, as noted by Trusted Reviews, is also appreciated. While there are some criticisms regarding the shallowness of the story, dated humor, and inconsistent blending of serious and comedic elements, the overall sentiment is positive, with the game's narrative being seen as a vehicle for players to enjoy a chaotic and entertaining experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics love Saints Row: The Third Remastered for its wild, hilarious, and over-the-top story filled with humor and absurdity. The narrative follows the Third Street Saints gang as they battle the Syndicate in Steelport, offering a bizarre and entertaining experience. While some criticize the story for being shallow and having dated humor, most appreciate its comedic tone, likable characters, and unique parody of the open-world genre. Overall, the game delivers a chaotic and enjoyable journey through a Looney Tunes world of excess and silliness.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

50%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Saints Row: The Third Remastered are generally positive. Many critics praise the freedom and variety offered by the gameplay, with AusGamers mentioning player freedom and a co-op mode, and Cubed3 highlighting the breadth of variety in mission design, weapons, enemy types, and outrageous spectacle. GameGrin also commends the solid gunplay and the fun of jumping through a car windshield to steal it. The addictive gameplay loop and great action are mentioned by Windows Central, while Xbox Tavern compares the gameplay to GTA and considers it a decent alternative. ZTGD describes the game as one of the most enjoyable rides of the last generation, emphasizing the fun factor. GameSpace mentions unique and enjoyable missions, offering a refreshing experience. Daily Star states that the gameplay holds up well and the missions and activities are still fun and memorable. DualShockers praises the bonkers missions, awesome open-world activities, and loveable asshole characters. Gameblog.fr mentions that the cooperative mode is still present and fun to play. However, there are also some negative opinions regarding the gameplay. God is a Geek mentions that some mechanics feel dated and handling and shooting are imprecise. CGMagazine describes the shooting controls as awkward and mentions difficulty spikes. PlayStation Universe points out that gunplay and vehicle handling can be stiff and wonky, and certain missions require precision, which can be frustrating. Trusted Reviews criticizes the archaic feel of the gameplay compared to genre contemporaries, with issues in gunplay, movement, and mission design. The Digital Fix mentions that driving feels clunky and leans into a more arcade-style. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Saints Row: The Third Remastered offers a fun and enjoyable experience. The game is praised for its freedom, variety, and outrageous spectacle. The gunplay and melee combat are generally satisfying, and the open-world activities and side missions are fun and meaningful. The cooperative mode is also appreciated by critics. However, there are some criticisms regarding dated mechanics, imprecise controls, and clunky driving. Despite these flaws, the gameplay is generally considered to hold up well and provide an engaging and entertaining experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics mostly love the gameplay of Saints Row: The Third Remastered for its freedom, variety, and over-the-top fun. They praise the solid gunplay, unique missions, and addictive gameplay loop. However, some find the mechanics dated, controls imprecise, and driving clunky. Overall, while flawed, the gameplay offers an enjoyable and engaging experience with memorable moments and a fun cooperative mode.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

66%

Mixed (50-79)

25%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

In terms of the positive aspects of the Graphics and Visual Design of Saints Row: The Third Remastered, several critics praised the improvements and upgrades made to the game's visuals. AusGamers commends the remastered visuals for their impressive new lighting engine and updated character models, which give the game a cartoonish and cinematic quality. Cubed3 also highlights the enhanced lighting engine, glitzy hues, and shaders that make characters feel more alive than ever, adding to the decadent 'celebrity' aesthetics of the game. GameSpace describes the game as surprisingly gorgeous, with updated NPCs and beautiful lighting. These positive comments indicate that the remastered version successfully enhances the overall visual experience of the game. On the other hand, there were some negative opinions regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Saints Row: The Third Remastered. IGN, for example, expresses disappointment, stating that the remastered graphics are not impressive and do not look as good as modern games. DualShockers also mentions the presence of bugs and glitches, including vehicle getting stuck and lighting glitches, which detract from the overall visual experience. Gameblog.fr criticizes certain character models, vehicle designs, and lighting effects, stating that the remastered version does not impress in terms of graphics. These negative comments suggest that the remastered version may not have fully met the expectations of some critics, with concerns about outdated visuals and technical issues. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Graphics and Visual Design of Saints Row: The Third Remastered have seen significant improvements. Several critics, such as God is a Geek, GamingTrend, and Press Start Australia, praise the visual upgrades, rebuilt lighting engine, new textures, and improved draw distance, making it the best-looking Saints Row game to date. They appreciate the efforts put into enhancing the game's visuals, resulting in a more visually appealing and immersive experience. However, there are also critics, like IGN and Gameblog.fr, who express disappointment with the remastered graphics, stating that they do not live up to modern standards or that certain aspects still feel dated. Despite these mixed opinions, the overall consensus leans towards the positive side, with the majority of critics acknowledging the visual improvements and enhancements made in Saints Row: The Third Remastered.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics have mixed opinions on the Graphics and Visual Design of Saints Row: The Third Remastered. Some praise the impressive new lighting engine and character models, while others express disappointment with bugs and outdated visuals. Overall, most critics agree that the remastered version has seen significant improvements, making it the best-looking Saints Row game to date, despite some criticisms about modern standards not being met.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

65%

Mixed (50-79)

35%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

In terms of the sound design and music of Saints Row: The Third Remastered, the majority of critics had positive opinions. They praised the voice acting, noting that the voice cast delivered their lines with skill and without a hint of irony, adding to the overall enjoyment of the game. Critics such as Cubed3 and GameSpace specifically mentioned the witty dialogue and voice acting that made them laugh. The use of cut-scenes was also appreciated, providing a reprieve after long missions. Additionally, the game offered a variety of referential musical cues and homages, with an amazing soundtrack featuring a huge and eclectic spread of music from all genres and eras, according to God is a Geek. There were no specific negative opinions mentioned regarding the sound design. However, some critics did not provide detailed comments on this aspect. For example, Player 2 only mentioned the inclusion of the original music and the re-licensing of tracks without specifically addressing the sound design. This lack of specific mention suggests that the sound design may not have stood out as a negative aspect of the game, but it also did not receive significant praise. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Saints Row: The Third Remastered were positive aspects of the game. The memorable moments created by songs like Kanye West's "Power" and Sublime's "What I Got" were highlighted by multiple critics, including IGN, Press Start Australia, and Trusted Reviews. The game's soundtrack, featuring a variety of music tracks and radio stations, was praised for enhancing the action moments and adding to the overall experience. The positive reception of the voice acting, along with the variety and quality of the music choices, contributed to the overall enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praised the sound design and music of Saints Row: The Third Remastered, highlighting the skillful voice acting, witty dialogue, and diverse soundtrack spanning different genres and eras. The use of cut-scenes was well-received, providing a break from intense gameplay. While no major criticisms were noted, some critics did not delve deeply into this aspect. Overall, the consensus is that the game's sound design and music were positive, with multiple critics emphasizing memorable moments created by specific songs.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

71%

Mixed (50-79)

29%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Saints Row: The Third Remastered has received mostly positive reviews from the critics. Cubed3 praises the voice cast, describing them as electric and playing the material with a straight face, without any hint of irony. This suggests that the voice actors deliver their lines with sincerity and conviction, enhancing the overall experience of the game. Trusted Reviews also commends the game for its appealing cast of eccentric characters with hilarious dialogue, indicating that the voice acting successfully brings these characters to life and adds to the comedic elements of the game. Twinfinite goes a step further and simply states that the voice acting is stellar, implying that it is of exceptional quality. While the majority of the critics have positive opinions about the voice acting, there is a lack of specific details or elaboration on what makes it good. Xbox Tavern, for example, simply states that the voice acting is good without providing any further explanation. This lack of depth in their assessment leaves the reader wanting more information about the strengths of the voice acting. Additionally, Slant Magazine mentions that the characters in the game are a joy to interact with, but their interactions are limited to running the same activities over and over. This suggests that while the voice acting may be enjoyable, the repetitive nature of the game's activities may hinder the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Saints Row: The Third Remastered is a positive aspect of the game. The praise for the voice cast's performances, the humor and delivery, and the eccentric characters with hilarious dialogue indicates that the voice acting successfully enhances the game's comedic elements and brings the characters to life. While there are some critics who provide less detailed opinions or highlight potential limitations in the game's activities, the overall sentiment is that the voice acting is of high quality and contributes positively to the overall experience of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics rave about the stellar voice acting in Saints Row: The Third Remastered, praising the electric performances that bring eccentric characters to life with sincerity and conviction. While some critics lack in-depth analysis, the overall consensus is clear: the voice acting adds comedic value and enhances the gameplay experience, despite potential limitations in game activities.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

23%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

14%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of technical performance, there are both positive and negative aspects mentioned by the critics for each gaming platform. Starting with the positives, on Xbox One, the game runs at a stable 60 FPS on Xbox One X, with occasional drops during intense moments, according to Windows Central. ZTGD also mentions that the game has improved technically compared to the original version. On PC, GameSpew describes the game's performance as surprisingly good, with solid framerates on a PC setup. CGMagazine notes that the game runs smoothly with a constant framerate on a PS4 Pro, and Wccftech mentions that it looks great on PS4 Pro and includes an uncapped framerate mode. Moving on to the negatives, several critics mention bugs and glitches across all platforms. AusGamers, GameGrin, and God is a Geek all mention various technical issues on Xbox One, including crashes, glitches, disappearing cars, stutters, freezes, and long load times. GameSpace and PC Invasion mention bugs and performance issues on PC, such as crashes when alt-tabbing, AI pathing problems, cutscenes playing below 30 FPS, audio syncing issues, muffled sound effects, janky animations, braindead AI, lack of intuitive controls, and slowdowns when alt-tabbing. On PS4, critics like Daily Star, DualShockers, Slant Magazine, and Trusted Reviews mention bugs and glitches, including getting stuck, vehicle glitches, random glitches, inconsistent framerate, and flickering sky. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Saints Row: The Third Remastered has technical issues and bugs across all gaming platforms. While there are some positive aspects mentioned, such as improved performance on Xbox One X and smooth framerate on PS4 Pro, the negative aspects, including crashes, glitches, and various performance issues, seem to outweigh the positives. Critics like Gameblog.fr and The Games Machine mention that the game is technically well-made, but the majority of critics highlight the presence of bugs and glitches. It is worth noting that some critics, like TheGamer, still find the remastered version appealing due to its use of modern console capabilities and HDR support, but the technical issues are a disappointment for many, as mentioned by critics like We Got This Covered.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics praise stable 60 FPS on Xbox One X and smooth performance on PS4 Pro, but slam bugs and glitches on all platforms for Saints Row: The Third Remastered. Despite some positive aspects, technical issues overshadow the game's potential, disappointing many reviewers.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

56%

Mixed (50-79)

40%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Saints Row: The Third Remastered are generally positive. Many critics highlight the abundance of additional content and activities available in the game, such as diversions, side missions, and extracurricular activities like Mayhem and Insurance Fraud mode. AusGamers praises the game for its 'own the city' meta game and co-op mode, making it a must-play in 2020. Cubed3 mentions the multiple endings, out-of-sequence missions, and robust character creator as factors contributing to the game's replay value. GameGrin highlights the various diversions and activities outside of the main missions, such as assassination contracts and streaking. Windows Central emphasizes the inclusion of all three expansions and numerous additional add-ons, providing great value for newcomers. Xbox Tavern mentions the abundance of extra content, including missions, side activities, weapons, characters, outfits, vehicles, and cheats. ZTGD mentions that the game is one that the reviewer winds up playing for hours every time they dig back into it. GameSpace and GameSpew both mention the replay value offered by the DLC and customization options. However, there are a few critics who express some reservations about the replay value of Saints Row: The Third Remastered. DualShockers suggests that the remaster may only be worth it for those who didn't play the original, implying limited replay value. Gameblog.fr states that there is no added value for players who have already played the game, as the remastered version includes all DLCs. Push Square mentions tedious activities and basic gameplay that may not hold up well over time, potentially impacting the game's replayability. PlayStation Universe points out that certain missions can be frustrating in harder difficulties, which may deter players from replaying them. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Saints Row: The Third Remastered offers a significant amount of additional content and activities, making it enjoyable to replay. The inclusion of all DLCs, the variety of side missions, and the level of customization are frequently cited as factors contributing to the game's replay value. Critics such as Comicbook.com and The Digital Fix highlight the modern upgrades and pre-loaded DLC, respectively, as reasons to revisit the game. While there are a few reservations expressed by critics regarding limited replay value for those who played the original or potential tediousness in certain activities, the majority of critics agree that the game provides hours of enjoyment and offers a worthwhile replay experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Saints Row: The Third Remastered gets high praise for its replay value thanks to tons of extra content like side missions, activities, and expansions. Critics love the 'own the city' meta game, co-op mode, multiple endings, and robust character creator. While some critics feel it may only appeal to newcomers and point out potential tediousness in certain activities, the general consensus is that it offers hours of fun and customization options that make it a must-play in 2020.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

46%

Mixed (50-79)

54%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the overall verdict of Saints Row: The Third Remastered, it is clear that the game has received a mix of positive and negative feedback. Starting with the positives, several critics praised the game for its enjoyable and fun gameplay. AusGamers mentions that the game offers player freedom and a distinct lack of grace, while GameGrin considers it a great game that delivers on enjoyment. GameSpew goes as far as calling it one of the most enjoyable open-world games ever made. The visual upgrades and inclusion of all DLC were also highlighted positively by critics such as Daily Star and Press Start Australia. The Digital Fix commends the visually impressive remaster and the arcade-style gameplay that provides a lot of content and options for mayhem. On the negative side, there were some criticisms regarding the remaster itself. GameGrin and GamingTrend both mention that the remaster doesn't offer anything new for those who have played the original. DualShockers recommends it only for those who didn't play the original, as the additions are not worth it. Some critics, such as Player 2 and Comicbook.com, highlight that the game is starting to feel dated and some of the humor may be considered offensive in modern society. There were also mentions of performance problems, AI issues, and bugs by critics like GameSpace and GamingTrend. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Saints Row: The Third Remastered is an enjoyable and fun game, with positive remarks about its gameplay, visual upgrades, and inclusion of DLC. While there were criticisms regarding the lack of significant improvements for those who have played the original, the game still manages to offer a unique and entertaining experience. Critics like God is a Geek and TheGamer recommend the remastered version for both newcomers and fans, while IGN mentions that the game has held up well and will still be enjoyable for new players. However, it is important to note that some critics expressed concerns about the dated elements and technical issues of the remaster.

TL;DR

Reviewers are divided on Saints Row: The Third Remastered. Positives include fun gameplay, visual upgrades, and DLC. Negatives point out lack of new content for original players, dated humor, and technical issues. Overall, while enjoyable, the remaster may not offer enough for returning players. Newcomers may still find it entertaining.

CRITIK

Reviews

110 reviews found

TheGamer

PlayStation 4

May 25, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Saints Row The Third Remastered is considered the best version of the 2011 game. Despite its faults, it represents a better era for gaming and is a remarkable game. The remastered version is recommended for both newcomers and fans.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox One

May 22, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Saints Row The Third Remastered has done a good job of touching up the original, and fans of the series would definitely enjoy this installment.

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AusGamers

Xbox One

May 22, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Saints Row The Third Remastered is a reminder of the cartoonish and juvenile middle-ground between Grand Theft Auto and Crackdown, offering player freedom and a distinct lack of grace.

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GameSpew

May 24, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises the remaster for improving every single asset and making it one of the most enjoyable open-world games ever made.

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ZTGD

Xbox One

May 28, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that the game is the best version of the game to date and a perfect excuse for the reviewer to overrun Steelport once again.

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Twinfinite

PlayStation 4

May 21, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The majority of the experience still retains the chaotic fun of the original and provides an experience most anyone out for some mindless fun could find hours of enjoyment in.

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Cubed3

Xbox One

Sep 8, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Saints Row: The Third Remastered is recommended for those who enjoy power-fantasies and self-aware humor. It is a guilty pleasure that manages to be much more clever than it presents itself, with a polished and attractive experience.

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Windows Central

Xbox One

Jun 2, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Saints Row: The Third Remastered is a quirky and addictive action game that's one of the best remasters on Xbox One.

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Comicbook.com

PlayStation 4

May 21, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Saints Row: The Third Remastered is a ridiculous and fun adventure that is worth playing, despite its flaws.