Saints Row 2 is surprisingly entertaining.

I admit I got sucked up into the hype of Grand Theft Auto 4. I think we all did to some degree. And it really is a well made game, but honestly, these open world driving games often times just are not for me.

When I heard about Saints Row 2 releasing after GTA4, I had no doubt in my mind the game was going to be absolutely fucking terrible. Then reviews came out. It received mostly good to great scores and some were even saying the game was better than GTA4. This surprised me and baffled me. So we rented the game, I tried it a bit, and I must say.... not bad. Not bad at all.

First thing I was impressed with (besides my amazingly well designed character) was how fast and responsive the game is. Everything seems quick, easy, and fun. The combat, running, and driving all feel way less sluggish as compared to any GTA game. Taking a bat to someones head in this game feels way more satisfying than anything I've ever used in GTA.

The online co-op is an amazing feat as well. Friends can join you in the world of Saints Row and progress through the story from beginning to end as far as I can tell. This feature might not fit in to the graceful GTA4, but in this game, having one more person causing crazy antics only adds to the fun.

I never thought I'd be playing Saints Row 2, much less enjoying it. And while the game probably isn't going to help the "Video games as art" debate, I'm strongly considering a purchase of the game now.


Brad