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If you aren't already aware, Saints Row is the latest GTA-clone to be released on the XBox 360.
Rockstar have created and dominated the genre for so long, it only seems like a matter of time before there’s a new king in town. Is it going to be Saints Row?
Stilwater is a criminal’s paradise, with four rival gangs vying for control of the city. You get to create your character and join the 3rd Street Saints - the underdogs in this street war. Raise cash to buy threads and pimp your ride, and earn reputation to unlock missions to help take over the city.
There’s a choice of interesting game modes. Gangsta Brawl is a fairly straightforward deathmatch, Big Ass Chains, where you have to collect chains from opponents and return them to the pawn shop, Protect tha Pimp is a collection of team-based attack missions and Blinged Out Ride, where you’re required to upgrade your vehicle and get to the rally point before your opponent. Online play gives this title the advantage over GTA, and is a joy to play, although the bog standard co-op modes look like they have been added as an afterthought.
Characters are voiced by some big name actors, including Michael Clarke Duncan (Planet of the Apes, Daredevil, Scorpion King), Keith David (Pitch Black, Chronicles Of Riddick, Crash), Mila Kunis (American Psycho II, Family Guy) and the legendary David Carradine (Kung Fu, Kill Bill, Alias, need we go on?). Music isn’t as good as GTA, but still rocks, with a variety of hip-hop, metal and alternative tunes.
Targetting system definitely works well. There’s no lock-on but you can move around quickly as you fire. Weapon selection is a breeze, with the B button bringing up a circular menu and the analogue stick selecting your weapon of choice.
Overall this is a blatant rip-off of GTA but, unlike many other such titles, it has gone one step further, improved gun control and added that all-important online play. Until the next Grand Theft Auto release next year, Saints Row is our weapon of choice.
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