Why Saints Row Is Better Than GTA

Comparatively, no such connection exists between the cast of GTA V. The trio of protagonists are narcissistic sociopaths who’re only out for themselves.

By the time players are given the option to eliminate one of the three playable characters during the game’s climax, the game has given little - if any - motivation for players to want to save them or fight back against those who’ve been using you this entire time. In short, GTA simply lacks the emotional heartbeat that made Saints Row 2’s plot so memorable.

The Grand Theft Auto series is home to some of the greatest, boundary-pushing games in recent years. They’re attention to detail is staggering and the biting satirical humour that these games are known for shines a revealing light on modern society. But it’s not Saints Row.

While not as technically ground-breaking or critically acclaimed as Rockstar’s series, this brazenly silly collection of games has nevertheless excelled where GTA has failed. By taking its zany premise and cranking it to the extreme, it gives players all the tools they need to have as much fun as possible without realism shattering their immersion.

More importantly, though, Saints Row has heart, and a lot of it at that, which is worth a lot more than any level of technical fidelity can accomplish.