Why Did the Saints Row Reboot Fail?
The 2022 Saints Row reboot launched with the promise of a return to the series’ roots. However, the resulting game was hailed as “soulless” and “unfinished” by both players and critics. During this period, leading up to the closure of the Volition team, it was revealed that a very different game was actually planned. New information released recently reveals why the game failed.
The Lost Potential of the Saints Row Reboot
According to former development staff and one of the series’ biggest fans, mrsaintsgodzilla21, the reboot was originally envisioned as a much more comprehensive project. The game was supposed to feature the return of old characters, in-depth customization options, and even crazy side activities. However, technical issues and pressure from upper management led to the scrapping of most of these ideas.
The developers’ “20/80 rule” aimed to blend 80% of the game with a serious, Saints Row 2-style tone and 20% with the absurdist atmosphere of Saints Row: The Third. This aimed to create a balanced experience for both longtime fans and newcomers. However, this balance was never achieved, resulting in a game that was neither truly serious nor entertaining.
One of the key reasons for the failure was the cut features. Customizable gangs, advanced character creation, the fun “Proclamation” system, and unusual activities (such as quick-time duels with NPCs or side quests like “Hobo Juice”) were completely discarded. The result was a lack of variety and repetitive quests.
According to former employees, the development team faced management interference at numerous points. The human shield mechanic, which was removed for being “too violent,” clothing and facial customizations simplified due to memory issues, and even the exclusion of storyline content all limited the game’s vision. Thus, the spirit of “freedom and chaos” that fans had long craved failed to return.
All these factors combined led to the Saints Row reboot failing to satisfy both gamers and ultimately leading to the studio’s demise. The developers’ well-intentioned vision was overshadowed by management decisions and technical shortcomings, making the game the series’ most unsuccessful entry.
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