Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Saints Row: The Third Remastered cover image

Links

Amazon

Twitch

MONSTER

Saints Row: The Third Remastered

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

2020

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

AvailableMay 22, 2020

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

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.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Saints Row: The Third Remastered delivers a chaotic, entertaining narrative full of absurd humor that critics love, but it's marred by outdated jokes and shallow storytelling. While returning fans may revel in its over-the-top charm, newcomers might feel alienated by its immature humor and repetitive missions, leading to a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Saints Row: The Third Remastered has garnered a mix of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its entertaining and chaotic narrative. Many reviewers, such as GameSkinny and Gamer Escape, appreciate the game's absurd humor and over-the-top scenarios that keep players engaged. Critics like PC Games and Hardcore Gamer highlight the fun factor, noting that the story is designed to prioritize entertainment over depth. The game's self-aware and bombastic approach, as mentioned by Wccftech, adds to its charm, making it a nostalgic experience for returning players. The colorful cast of characters and the outrageous plot twists contribute to a lively atmosphere that many find enjoyable, as noted by critics like AusGamers and God is a Geek. However, the story is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including GameSkinny and Screen Rant, point out the immature humor and problematic portrayals of women, suggesting that these elements feel outdated and may alienate some players. Critics like DarkStation and Malditos Nerds express concern over the narrative's lack of depth and nuance, with some missions feeling repetitive or like roadblocks to the overall experience. The inconsistency in tone, as noted by Slant Magazine, raises questions about the balance between serious and comedic elements, leaving some critics feeling that the story lacks a cohesive identity. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Saints Row: The Third Remastered offers a chaotic and entertaining experience, it is marred by outdated humor and a lack of narrative depth. Many reviewers appreciate the game's ability to entertain through absurdity and humor, but they also acknowledge that these elements may not resonate with all players, particularly newcomers to the franchise. Critics like Atomix and Digital Chumps encapsulate this sentiment by emphasizing that the narrative sacrifices depth for open-world chaos, ultimately making it a mixed bag that appeals primarily to fans of the original game.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Saints Row: The Third Remastered delivers chaotic fun and absurdity, with praise for its humor, open-world variety, and customization. However, it suffers from outdated gameplay mechanics, poor AI, and repetitive missions, leading critics to recommend it mainly for newcomers while veterans may feel disappointed by the lack of innovation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Saints Row: The Third Remastered has garnered a variety of positive remarks from critics, highlighting its chaotic and entertaining nature. Many reviewers, such as Player 2 and GameSpew, praised the game for its self-referential humor and outrageous action, emphasizing that the missions are fun and embrace absurdity. The open-world sandbox experience allows players to engage in a plethora of activities, with critics like PC Invasion and USgamer noting the variety of missions and the freedom to wreak havoc in Steelport. Additionally, the game’s character customization options and the cooperative mode have been appreciated, as mentioned by Gameblog.fr, making it a delightful experience for both newcomers and returning players. However, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks that hinder the overall experience. Common criticisms include the lack of substantial improvements in gameplay mechanics from the original version, with reviewers like Malditos Nerds and GamePro Germany noting issues such as poor AI and repetitive mission design. Critics like Trusted Reviews and JeuxActu highlighted that the gunplay and vehicle handling feel dated, contributing to a sense of frustration during gameplay. The repetitiveness of missions, particularly for long-time fans, was a recurring theme, with many reviewers, including BaziCenter and IGN, expressing that the gameplay can become monotonous over time. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that while Saints Row: The Third Remastered retains its fun and chaotic essence, it suffers from outdated mechanics and repetitive gameplay. The game succeeds in providing an enjoyable open-world experience filled with absurdity and humor, as noted by TheGamer and Screen Rant, but the lack of significant enhancements and persistent issues with AI and mission design detract from its potential. Critics generally agree that the remaster is best suited for newcomers, while veterans may find the experience lacking in innovation and challenge.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Saints Row: The Third Remastered impresses with graphical upgrades like enhanced lighting and textures, earning praise for its aesthetic improvements. However, critics highlight significant shortcomings, noting that it still feels dated compared to modern titles. Despite some nice touches, it struggles with visual inconsistencies and outdated character designs, leading to a consensus that it’s a modest upgrade rather than a groundbreaking remaster. Overall, it retains a sense of being a decade-old game, falling short of contemporary expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Saints Row: The Third Remastered reveals a mixture of appreciation for the improvements made and acknowledgment of its limitations. Many critics praised the remaster for its significant graphical upgrades, particularly in terms of lighting and character models. Reviews from GameMAG and Press Start Australia highlighted the enhanced textures and lighting effects, which contributed to a more vibrant and engaging visual experience. Critics like Gamer Escape and COGconnected noted the improvements in model quality and the overall aesthetic appeal, suggesting that the remaster successfully utilized current-generation hardware to enhance the game's visuals. Moreover, the inclusion of HDR support was mentioned positively by IGN Italia and GamePro Germany, indicating that the remaster made strides to modernize the visual experience. However, the criticisms of the remaster are significant and reflect a broader concern about its ability to compete with contemporary titles. Many reviewers, including those from IGN and Worth Playing, expressed disappointment that the remastered graphics do not match the standards of modern games, with some stating that the visuals still appear dated. Critics like Gameblog.fr and DarkStation pointed out that while there are improvements, certain elements, such as character designs and environmental textures, still feel out of touch with current gaming expectations. Issues like visual inconsistencies, awkward character animations, and a general lack of groundbreaking advancements were also noted by several reviewers, including Attack of the Fanboy and Digital Chumps, which detracted from the overall visual experience. In summary, the consensus among critics suggests that while Saints Row: The Third Remastered offers notable improvements in graphics and visual design, it ultimately falls short of fully realizing the potential of a modern remaster. Critics like Game Revolution and Screen Rant acknowledged the enhancements but noted that the game does not reach the heights of current AAA titles. Overall, the remaster is seen as a modest upgrade rather than a transformative experience, with many reviewers agreeing that it retains a sense of being a decade-old title despite its visual improvements. This duality of praise and critique paints a picture of a remaster that, while visually appealing in some aspects, still grapples with the challenges of meeting contemporary gaming standards.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Saints Row: The Third Remastered boasts a killer soundtrack that elevates gameplay, with standout tracks like Kanye West's "Power" and contributions from various artists praised for enhancing the chaotic vibe. However, the sound design falters with underwhelming weapon sound effects and some dated audio elements, leaving critics divided. While the music shines, there’s room for improvement in audio fidelity.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Saints Row: The Third Remastered have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's impressive soundtrack and its ability to enhance the overall gameplay experience. Reviewers such as 3DJuegos and GameCritics specifically praised the inclusion of tracks like Kanye West's "Power," which not only serves as a standout element but also contributes significantly to the game's superhero theme. Critics from Digital Chumps and GameOver.gr noted that the catchy soundtrack and well-chosen songs create memorable moments and foster a fun atmosphere during gameplay. The consistent praise for the licensed music, including tracks from artists like Sublime, showcases the game's commitment to delivering an engaging auditory experience, with many reviewers, including LaPS4 and Power Unlimited, emphasizing how the music enhances the game's chaotic and entertaining environment. However, not all aspects of the sound design received favorable feedback. Critics such as DarkStation and Attack of the Fanboy pointed out that while the music and voice acting are strong, the weapon sound effects are notably lacking in impact and clarity compared to the original game. Additionally, some reviewers, including Gamer Escape and DarkZero, expressed concerns over the audio experience feeling dated, with inconsistent sound effects and repetitive dialogue detracting from the overall immersion. These criticisms suggest that while the music may shine, the sound design elements related to gameplay mechanics, particularly weapon sounds, fall short of modern expectations. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Saints Row: The Third Remastered excels in its musical offerings, with a well-curated soundtrack that significantly enhances the gameplay experience. Critics like Vandal and Wccftech highlighted the effective use of licensed music to elevate key moments, while others acknowledged the quality of voice acting. However, the mixed feedback regarding sound effects and some dated audio elements suggests that while the soundtrack is a clear strength, the sound design could benefit from further refinement. Ultimately, the game succeeds in creating an enjoyable atmosphere through its music, but it also leaves room for improvement in its sound effects and overall audio fidelity.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The voice acting in Saints Row: The Third Remastered is widely praised for enhancing the game's humor and character depth, with standout performances from actors like Troy Baker and Laura Bailey. Critics hail it as a crucial component of the game's comedic tone, though some note downsides, such as the absence of original voice actors and a few lackluster performances. Overall, despite minor criticisms, the voice acting remains a key strength, delivering an engaging and entertaining experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (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 a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its contribution to the game's comedic and irreverent tone. Reviewers like GameCritics and Trusted Reviews commend the standout performances that bring the game's eccentric characters to life, emphasizing that the humor is effectively delivered. Digital Chumps notes the notable performances, while LaPS4 praises the voice acting as perfect, maintaining the quality of the original version. Critics such as BaziCenter and DarkZero specifically mention the talents of actors like Troy Baker and Laura Bailey, whose contributions enhance the overall experience with their comedic timing and delivery. Overall, the voice acting is characterized as a key element that enriches the game's humor and character depth. However, some critiques highlight notable downsides, particularly regarding the absence of the original voice actors for re-recording. Hardcore Gamer points out this lack of continuity, which may detract from the experience for fans of the original. Additionally, PlayStation LifeStyle mentions that some performances, like the cockney voice, seem less impactful compared to their previous iterations. Digital Chumps also raises a concern about the inclusion of controversial figures, such as Hulk Hogan, which could overshadow the otherwise strong performances. Furthermore, Attack of the Fanboy suggests that the humor may come off as cringey to contemporary audiences, indicating a potential disconnect with newer players. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers is that the voice acting in Saints Row: The Third Remastered is a significant strength that aligns well with the game's tone. Most critics agree that the performances are well-executed and contribute positively to the comedic atmosphere, as noted by Gamer Escape and SpazioGames. The combination of humor, character depth, and memorable dialogue creates an engaging experience, with many reviewers, such as Twinfinite and Vandal, describing the voice acting as stellar and impeccable. Thus, while there are some concerns regarding specific performances and the absence of original actors, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, affirming the voice acting as a highlight of the remastered title.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Saints Row: The Third Remastered showcases solid performance on PS4 and Xbox One, with smooth frame rates praised by critics. However, it's plagued by numerous bugs, crashes, and glitches across all platforms—especially on PS4 and PC—detracting from the experience. While it appeals to both newcomers and fans, persistent technical issues overshadow its improvements, leaving critics frustrated and hoping for further patches.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

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

The technical performance of Saints Row: The Third Remastered has received a mixed reception across various gaming platforms, with some positive notes emerging primarily for the PS4 and Xbox One versions. Critics like Eurogamer Italy and Digital Chumps highlighted the remaster's ability to run smoothly on modern consoles, with options for unlocked frame rates that enhance gameplay fluidity. Similarly, Gameblog.fr noted that the game runs consistently on a PS4 Pro, while Generación Xbox praised the Xbox One X for maintaining a stable 60 FPS during demanding situations. Overall, there is a consensus that the remaster makes good use of modern hardware capabilities, with some critics like TheGamer emphasizing its appeal to newcomers and diehard fans alike. However, the negatives cannot be overlooked, as many reviewers pointed out various technical issues that detract from the experience. On PS4, critics such as DarkStation and Game Revolution reported frequent bugs, crashes, and AI behavior issues that disrupt gameplay. Daily Star mentioned specific problems like getting stuck and car control issues, while PlayStation LifeStyle criticized stuttering animations and mission progression delays. For the Xbox One version, God is a Geek noted a greater number of bugs and glitches, including disappearing cars and long load times. On PC, multiple critics, including Attack of the Fanboy and PC Invasion, reported frame-rate issues, graphical glitches, and audio syncing problems that hinder the overall experience. The overall consensus among critics across all platforms indicates that while Saints Row: The Third Remastered does offer some improvements in technical performance, it is marred by a variety of persistent bugs and glitches that were carried over from the original game. Many reviews, such as those from SpazioGames and GameGrin, reflect frustration with the remaster's failure to fully address these longstanding issues. Despite the potential for a solid remaster, the technical performance remains inconsistent, with critics like Gamer Escape noting that performance issues, particularly during intense action scenes, detract from the overall enjoyment. Ultimately, while there are commendable aspects of the remaster, the technical shortcomings leave room for improvement and patching to enhance the player experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Saints Row: The Third Remastered offers a hefty amount of content and chaotic fun, especially for newcomers, with around thirty hours of gameplay thanks to all DLCs and a co-op mode. Critics praise its engaging side activities but warn that returning players may find it lacks fresh story content and suffers from repetitive missions. The removal of local co-op further hinders the experience for some. Overall, while it's a blast for first-timers, it may not hold up for veterans of the original. Replay value largely depends on individual preferences and familiarity with the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Saints Row: The Third Remastered is mixed, with several critics acknowledging the substantial content provided by the inclusion of all DLCs and expansions. Many reviewers, such as GamePro Germany and Player 2, highlight that the game offers a significant amount of additional missions and activities, potentially extending playtime to around thirty hours. Critics like Gamers' Temple and XGN emphasize the appeal of the co-op mode and the variety of side activities, suggesting that these elements contribute positively to the game’s replayability. The chaotic nature of the gameplay, as noted by IGN and Eurogamer Italy, also adds to the fun factor, making it an engaging experience for both new players and those revisiting the title. However, several reviewers point out notable drawbacks that may limit the game's replay value, particularly for returning players. Critics like Gameblog.fr and Attack of the Fanboy argue that the remastered version lacks fresh story content and new gameplay mechanics, which diminishes the incentive for those who have already experienced the original game. Additionally, the repetitive nature of missions and side activities is a common concern, as highlighted by Game Revolution and SpazioGames, suggesting that while there is a lot to do, it may not be enough to keep players engaged over the long term. The removal of certain features, such as local co-op, as mentioned by Finger Guns, also detracts from the experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the idea that Saints Row: The Third Remastered offers a wealth of content and fun activities, particularly for newcomers to the franchise. However, the lack of new content and the repetitive nature of gameplay may deter returning players from fully engaging with the game again. Critics like DualShockers and Malditos Nerds suggest that the remaster is best suited for those who have not played the original, while others, like Daily Star and COGconnected, acknowledge that the game still retains its chaotic charm, making it enjoyable for both new and returning players. Ultimately, the replay value appears to hinge on individual player preferences and their familiarity with the original title.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Saints Row: The Third Remastered" is largely positive, with many critics highlighting its chaotic fun and nostalgic value. Reviewers such as Push Square and Game Revolution appreciate the remaster for retaining the humor and absurdity that made the original game popular. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Power Unlimited commend the visual upgrades and the inclusion of all DLC, noting that the remastered version provides a more polished experience. Additionally, some reviewers, including Eurogamer Italy and GameMAG, emphasize that the game remains entertaining and engaging, particularly for newcomers who may not have experienced the original. However, the remaster is not without its flaws, and many critics point out several shortcomings. The gameplay mechanics are often described as outdated, with critics like Malditos Nerds and GameSkinny noting that the remaster fails to innovate or modernize the experience for new audiences. Technical issues, including bugs and performance problems, are also frequently mentioned, with DarkZero and Digital Chumps highlighting how these detract from the overall enjoyment. Moreover, the humor is considered dated by some, as noted by Player 2, which may not resonate well with contemporary players. Despite the mixed reviews, there is a consensus among critics that "Saints Row: The Third Remastered" offers a worthwhile experience, particularly for fans of the franchise. While it may not be a must-play for everyone, as indicated by Gameblog.fr and Worth Playing, the remaster is generally seen as the best way to experience the original game, with many reviewers recommending it for its fun and chaotic gameplay. Critics like TheGamer and Generación Xbox encapsulate this sentiment, suggesting that while the remaster has its issues, it successfully brings the beloved title to modern consoles and remains an enjoyable adventure for both newcomers and returning players.

TL;DR

"Saints Row: The Third Remastered" is a nostalgic blast with chaotic fun and solid visual upgrades, earning mostly positive reviews for its humor and DLC inclusion. However, it suffers from outdated mechanics, technical issues, and humor that may not resonate with new players. While not a must-play for everyone, it’s still the best way to experience the original, especially for fans of the franchise. Critics agree it’s a worthwhile adventure for both newcomers and veterans, despite its flaws.

MONSTER

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.

Read full review

COGconnected

PlayStation 4

May 21, 2020

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

Overall, Saints Row: The Third Remastered is a fun, chaotic experience that excels in entertainment value despite some flaws.

Read full review

GamePro Germany

PlayStation 4

Jun 12, 2020

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

Saints Row: The Third Remastered is a fun and chaotic experience that retains the charm of the original while offering visual upgrades, though it suffers from some outdated gameplay mechanics.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

Gamers' Temple

PlayStation 4

May 21, 2020

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

Saints Row: The Third Remastered is an entertaining open-world game with impressive visuals and chaotic gameplay, making it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and returning players.

Read full review

Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 4

May 21, 2020

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

Saints Row: The Third Remastered is a fun and absurd open-world adventure that serves as a solid alternative to GTA V, despite some outdated mechanics and humor.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

GameMAG

Xbox One

Sep 14, 2020

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

Saints Row: The Third Remastered is a polished version of a beloved game, maintaining its fun and engaging nature while enhancing visuals and performance.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

Generación Xbox

Xbox One

Jun 20, 2020

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

Saints Row: The Third Remastered is considered one of the best in the series, successfully bringing the game to modern consoles with enhanced visuals and stability, while retaining its fun and irreverent spirit.

Read full review