In a bittersweet turn of events, the 2022 reboot of Saints Row is currently available for free on the Epic Games Store. However, the closure of Volition, the studio behind the game, adds a touch of melancholy to the experience. Despite this, it presents a unique opportunity to delve into the final creation of a studio with a 30-year legacy. To secure your free copy, visit the Saints Row store page and claim it before 4 pm GMT tomorrow (the 31st). This offer is part of the Epic Games Store’s daily holiday freebies, which has already featured titles such as Cursed To Golf and Cat Quest.
Alice B, in her Saints Row review, described the reboot as a fun experience. However, she felt that it lacked originality and failed to leave a lasting impression. She stated, “It’s not exactly Saints Row, but it’s not exactly its own thing either.” The absence of a creative vision led her to believe that the reboot primarily existed for financial reasons, which was disappointing. Alice B expressed her longing for a world where the talented creators behind the pun-filled food trucks, the sprawling and bizarre city, and the intriguing Idols gang (complete with their cool helmets) had the freedom to develop a game without any constraints or obligations to a pre-existing series. Sadly, that is not the reality we live in.
The Saints Row series initially debuted in 2006 as a game that bore a striking resemblance to its predecessor, the iconic Grand Theft Auto. This similarity led to accusations that it was nothing more than a clone. However, Volition defended their creation, arguing that GTA had established an entire genre. In this regard, they were not entirely wrong. The series eventually crafted its own distinctive identity, particularly with the release of Saints Row 3. This installment elevated the characters, writing, and action setpieces to levels of absurdity, embracing a delightful sense of silliness. Saints Row 4 further pushed the boundaries, perhaps even leaving the series with no clear direction to pursue, thus making the concept of a reboot an intriguing prospect.
In 2018, Volition became a part of Deep Silver and fell victim to Embracer Group’s ambitious acquisition spree. Unfortunately, in the process, Volition was forced to close its doors this year due to the company’s “restructuring” efforts. This unfortunate fate has also befallen several other studios, resulting in a total of 900 layoffs.
As we embrace the opportunity to play the 2022 reboot of Saints Row for free, let us not forget the talent and creativity that once thrived within Volition. Though their final creation may not have lived up to expectations, it serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of the gaming industry. With new beginnings come the bitter realities of closure and restructuring. Nevertheless, the legacy of Saints Row, with its insane antics and outlandish characters, will forever hold a place in the hearts of gamers around the world.
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