Throwing everything at the wall. Truly bonkers piece of candy-coated pop mayhem. Like seriously we really need to be talking more about how batshit this game is. Packed to the brim with virtually every relic of the seventh-gen imaginable cranked up to 11 - including but not limited to a glitchy co-op mode, constant bullet hell, explosions, zombies, and bombastic protect/escort missions. I used to dislike games like this at the time, but looking back they're just so sinfully fun (I'm also a huge Resident Evil 6 apologist, for what that's worth). Has one of the most God-tier soundtracks in gaming history (It's My Life, Yonkers, Return of the Mack, 31 Seconds to Die, Power, Satisfaction, Machinehead, etc. etc.), attractive graphics, a wicked sense of humor (some sporadic cringe aside), missions that are a blast to play, an eclectic collection of freakish characters, and a fucking ripper array of weapons. AND with all the equally over-the-top DLCs? Come on dude, this is just awesome. In my opinion makes one very, VERY fatal flaw keeping it from elite greatness and that's killing off [REDACTED] in the second fucking mission. I have my reservations about this as a follow-up to Saints Row 2, but it also has a car with a giant mounted cannon that sucks in and shoots out pedestrians - so I'm more than happy with it. Wild.

Did you want to play GTA V but you're too broke? Or perhaps you wanted a more fun version of GTA V? Saints Row 3 is the game for you! Obviously, the third installment of the saga (non-remastered version). In this installment, you're the leader of the Saints, and you must successfully conquer the city and earn the respect of all.

Gameplay:
It's extremely fun, and that's great because that's what we wanted! Steal vehicles, get weapons... basic for a GTA-like, but you have so much more 'freedom' taken by the studio. Fun vehicles (like a hearse, flying motorcycle, and let's not even mention the DLCs). Same goes for the weapons. You also have options for compliments, jokes, etc. The game will keep reminding you with the little challenges it offers. The story is as crazy as it is enjoyable to play, with sometimes choices (really useful). Well, we could say a lot more, but you have so many activities to do and redo in this game...

Graphics and Art Design:
It's not GTA, but the game has its own little universe that we'll learn to recognize. I really enjoyed it (with a little ReShade filter installed). The voiceovers (only in original version) and the music are of very good quality. Yes, 'You're the best' is on one of the radio stations. Each character has their own charisma, their own touch. Even in terms of customizing your own character, you're quite free.

Achievements and Others:
The game has several DLCs that you can buy separately, but I recommend getting the full edition. Really, the DLCs add a few more hours, but they're so good! The game is really cheap, and even cheaper when it's on sale! A few words for trophy hunters: an excellent trophy list to complete. That is, some annoying trophies, some good trophies, but all understandable and achievable! Even the DLCs contribute, so it's really a delight.

So, I really enjoyed this Saints Row 3 (I already 100%ed it back then on PS3), and it's truly pure fun. If you're two, then just go buy it. I think currently (in 2023 as I write this), the remastered version is better, and I'll get it (hence my slightly lowered score). But truly, a great game to play at least once in your life.

Final Score: 16/20
Recommendation: Really, for the culture if you haven't played it, and especially a big 'GO FOR IT' if you have a buddy available to play.