Better than the prequel?
As a result of the improved AI, combat is enjoyable, intuitive and challenging, with plenty of frenetic shoot-outs, missions and tough races through the streets.Melee attacks have also been improved, though your character's movements can feel a bit clumsy and robotic when you’re being attacked by a group of enemies. However, melee combat is still enjoyable thanks mainly to a 3-strike combo move, which if executed correctly sees your character, on the third strike, pull of a finishing move, such as kneeing his enemy in the balls. Ouch!
There are also a whole array of new weapons on offer, such as flamethrowers and stun guns, many of which have an explosive effect on the environment. You can also pick up items from around the environment, such as bar stools, which you can then crack over the heads of your enemies or innocents, if you're that way inclined.
Thanks to a intuitive inventory system for accessing weapons, switching in between weapons can be done quickly, which comes in extremely handy when you've ran out of bullets and want to switch quickly to the likes of a crowbar or even a street-sign.
Despite there being a million and one things to do in Saints Row 2, the game never lacks direction thanks to a comprehensive checkpoint system, well designed map that shows all current objectives and a GPS system that guides you around the city from one objective to another.
Despite expanding on some of the features from the first game, it's true that this latest iteration doesn’t break any new boundaries in the genre, but nevertheless its familiarity is instantly appealing and fans of Saints Row should be more than happy with the upgrade in quality across the board as well as some of the great new features and objectives.
With dozens of missions, open-ended gameplay, co-op and multiplayer modes, anyone who picks up a copy of Saints Row 2 will no doubt still be playing it well into the new year.
Pros
Customisation adds a personal touch
Tons to do - some great objectives and misssions
Can tailor the experience to suit your own needs
Main mission boasts a solid storyline
Fun, fun, fun!
Cons
Melee attacks can sometimes feel clumsy
Still some AI issues.
An impressive sequel that expands and improves on the original.
HEXUS Awards
Saints Row 2 (8.5/10)
