Gaming

Saints Row 2022 Hands-On: Back and better than ever?

Slowly returning to form after a long absence from the scene

Published

August 22, 2022

Gab Orlina

Saints Row, as a video game franchise, was a hit for a lot of people during its peak. Volition Studios sought to create an action-packed open world experience, fully customizable and accessible to everyone. However, it put itself in that situation of just being a clone of another franchise with a similar premise — Grand Theft Auto. In order to be unique, everything about the games became over-the-top, especially the storylines and, later on, gameplay mechanics.

Unfortunately, this “over-the-top” approach didn’t sit well in the game’s last mainline release, Saints Row IV. In a rather bizarre twist, that game went a bit too crazy with the gameplay mechanics that an entire plot of taking over cities from rival gangs played second fiddle. No wonder this franchise hasn’t seen another game since Saints Row IV’s release in 2015.

Now, the franchise is back, totally rebooting the entire series in its return with Saints Row (2022). I don’t know why they decided to keep the name as is and not add anything to differentiate it, but maybe the idea was that it would sell itself. This time, the developers returned to their roots and are veering away from any wacky antics, supposedly.

Action-packed right out of the gate

After getting through a short opening sequence, Saints Row throws you into the meniacal and action-packed gameplay. Basically, you play as a character simply referred to as “The Boss,” working as an average member of society under Marshall Defense Industries. During this segment, you will get a grasp of some of the basic gameplay mechanics such as movement and combat — pretty standard stuff.

Shortly after that mission, you’re off to explore the land of Santo Ileso in the southwest regions of America. Of course, you don’t get full access to everything the overworld has to offer since it is your first day. However, at the very least, you’ll also get a good feel of the game’s improved driving mechanics. Honestly, they feel a bit closer to real-life driving, except for this one mechanic that lets you immediately go 90 degrees at each turn.

For the most part, everything feels nice to control and no wacky gimmicks get in the way. I honestly enjoyed clicking heads in the earlier parts of the game as part of Marshall without relying on aim assist too much. Plus, nothing seems too over-the-top when it comes to combat and driving mechanics; gameplay flows smoothly this time around and it takes a fair amount of time to get used to everything. Although, I think the game’s target locking system needs a bit of work, especially when you’re on a controller.

Brimming with customization

The thing that made Saints Row stand out against that other game is the plethora of customization options you have at your disposal. The 2022 reboot clearly did not lack in such, and actually gave you more options this time around. From the very beginning, you get to design your character however you want. From the clothes to the body features, the games offers a wide variety of options to help you get creative.

Now, the customization doesn’t stop there as you will also have access to custom designs for your vehicles and weapons, as well. Think of it like you’re giving your own personal spin on the things you will most likely use throughout the game. From increased power to unique perks, these massively support the kind of explosive action this franchise brings. I’ll definitely explore all the other upgrades you can mess around with later on in the story.

A story from the ground up this time

Unlike every other Saints Row game, before the 2022 reboot goes for the “started from the bottom” approach with its storyline. Previous games had already placed you under the wing or radar of the 3rd Street Saints, an already established yet smaller gang in the grand perspective of gang warfare. This time around, you and three of your in-game friends will build a new gang to takeover Santo Ileso — you know, the whole “make a name for yourself” type of thing.

I quite like this approach to the story, especially for a franchise rebooting a game that needed some changes. Honestly, this whole idea of starting your own gang adds a bit more depth to everything you’ll set out to do within the game. Also, as with every Saints Row game, the developers are not afraid to make it a bit more personal. I’m not going to spoil too much of what happens to your character during the story, but let’s just say you’ll find your purpose later on.

Of course, with this kind of storytelling, I do have this expectation of it leading to something fruitful in the end. Early in the game, it shows you a glimpse of what life as “The Boss” would shape up to be, with the Saints as the top dog. However, getting to that point will be all on you, and I’d like to see how the game complements your journey.

Should you give it a chance?

The Saints Row 2022 reboot is a promising return for a franchise absolving itself of its wackier past. From the first couple of hours that I played, it gives me hope that the franchise had learned from its mistakes while maintaining its identity. Sure, you still have slightly improved gameplay and movement and all. This time around, the callback to a more refined, serious yet fun storyline interests me.

If you’re a fan of the earlier games in the franchise, this feels like a must try for the nostalgia in the gameplay. For anybody who swore off this franchise after Saints Row IV, this game could honestly bring you back if you give it a chance. So far, I’m enjoying the reboot and I’m genuinely optimistic about how this game will play out.

I’m just hoping there won’t be any surprise crazy gimmicks that I have to deal with.

Related Topics:Saints Row Saints Row 2022

Gaming

Naruto X Boruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections release date

Pre-orders now available

Published

August 22, 2023

GadgetMatch

It doesn’t get any more ‘ultimate’ than this. The grand Naruto X Boruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections game is officially coming out on November 16 and pre-orders are now available.

Naruto X Boruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections retells the entire story of the classic Ani-Manga franchise. It’ll tackle everything from Naruto, Naruto Shippuden, and Boruto. A special story focused on Boruto has been created specifically for the game.

The game features over 130 characters — the most in an Ultimate Ninja Storm game. Announced alongside the release date are three new playable characters: Boro, Delta and Koji Kashin from the Kara Organisation.

Pre-order details

The game is now available for pre-order on PlayStation and Xbox digitally, and on all platforms physically except PC. Players will be able to choose different editions. Pre-order now on Bandai Namco Entertainment Asia’s e-store or visit any participating retailers in your country.

Package Early Purchase Bonus & Digital Pre-Order Bonus

All pre-orders of Naruto X Boruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections will give players access to the following bonus content:

Three (3) Costumes

Naruto Uzumaki (The Final Battle)
Naruto Uzumaki (TV Anime 20th Anniversary Costume)
Sasuke Uchiha (TV Anime 20th Anniversary Costume)

Receive an extra pre-order bonus item set which you can use in NARUTO TO BORUTO: SHINOBI STRIKER if you own this full game on top of Naruto X Boruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections.

Nanashi T-shirt
Merz Costume — Costume: Merz Style and Hair: Merz

These bonuses will be available in NARUTO TO BORUTO: SHINOBI STRIKER after 16 November 2023.

Standard, Deluxe & Sound Ultimate Edition

The contents for the Standard, Deluxe and Sound Ultimate Edition of the game are as follows:

Standard Edition

The main game, NARUTO X BORUTO Ultimate Ninja STORM CONNECTIONS

Deluxe Edition

The main game
Season Pass containing 5 playable characters that will be announced at a later date
Season Pass Bonus — 1 costume
Deluxe Bonus — 1 costume

Sound Ultimate Edition

Contains the same content as the Deluxe Edition
Ultimate Bonus — 5 costumes and 2 accessories
Nostalgic Anime Song & Item Pack — 5 anime songs and 3 in-game items

Premium Collector’s Edition

The main game
Two (2) Figurines
A Steelbook
Special Reversible Inlay
(Six) 6 Collectible Cards
(One) 1 Official Scroll
Season Pass containing 5 playable characters that will be announced at a later date
Season Pass Bonus — 1 costume
Deluxe Bonus — 1 costume
Ultimate Bonus — 5 costumes and 2 accessories

Additional DLC

Nostalgic Anime Song & Item Pack (available from launch)

With this pack, you’ll be able to change the in-game music during matches and enjoy the battle by listening to nostalgic Naruto songs. This pack comes with 5 iconic songs from the NARUTO anime and 3 in-game items.

NARUTO anime songs:

Haruka Kanata / ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
GO!!! / FLOW
Blue Bird / Ikimonogakari
Silhouette / KANA-BOON
Kaze / Yamazaru

In-game items:

Substitution Item: Microphone
Substitution Item: Orange Headphones
Ninja Info Card Skin: Nostalgic Anime Song Skin

Gaming

The voice of Mario is retiring from the character

No replacement has been named yet

Published

August 22, 2023

Luigi Leonardo

No other video game character has a more iconic voice than Mario. For decades, the red-and-blue plumber has graced gamers with many an “It’s-a me, Mario” and a “Mamma mia.” However, as any fan of old cartoon characters can attest to, even iconic voices don’t last forever. Longtime voice actor Charles Martinet is officially retiring from his role as the Italian plumber.

Today, Nintendo, through a post on X, confirmed that Martinet is stepping back from all recording roles at the company. The voice actor had voiced the character since Super Mario 64, the character’s debut in 3D. He has since provided voice work in all games where Mario has a voice. He also voiced Luigi, Wario, and Waluigi. Outside of Nintendo, players might recognize him as the voice of Paarthunax, the dragon in Skyrim.

We have a message for fans of the Mushroom Kingdom. Please take a look. pic.twitter.com/U1ASicOuTO

— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) August 21, 2023

After the announcement, Martinet’s last foray as the plumber in a video game might be in the upcoming title, Super Mario Bros. Wonder. Nintendo recently announced the new 2D platformer coming in November.

Martinet is not leaving the company entirely. He is now Nintendo’s official Mario Ambassador. As the voice actor already does now, he will likely pop up for Nintendo during themed events.

Nintendo has not announced who will replace Martinet as the voice of Mario going forward. However, the announcement does say that a video message from both Shigeru Miyamoto and Charles Martinet is coming at a later date. Presumably, the video will address the character’s voiced future.

Gaming

Lenovo’s Legion Go can come bundled with AR glasses, leak says

Might be revealed during IFA 2023

Published

August 19, 2023

Luigi Leonardo

Image source: Windows Report

Is the Legion Go even real? The more we find out about the upcoming console, the more unbelievable it looks. Only a few days ago, a leak revealed that the device will have removable controllers like the Nintendo Switch — a feat yet to be accomplished by contemporary handheld consoles. Now, another leaks reveals something even more extraordinary: bundled AR glasses.

Again coming from Windows Report, the Legion Go can reportedly come bundled with a pair of AR glasses to go along with gaming sessions. Players can wear the glasses for their display and control the action with the main console. The report, however, does not reveal what specs the glasses will have. If anything, it’s expected to have a high refresh rate to accommodate gaming.

After news of a bundled pair of AR glasses, there isn’t much more to reveal from the report. Given previous rumors, the device might come with AMD Phoenix chipsets under the hood, along with other goodies.

Additionally, it might not take long before an official reveal. The report states that Lenovo might debut the new console during IFA 2023, which will happen in a few weeks. During the event, the brand might also reveal how the bundled glasses will work.

Given how the market doesn’t have removable controllers or a bundled pair of glasses, it will be interesting to see how the Legion Go will pair up against the more notable consoles already out in the segment.