Saints Row Hitting in August
The next best thing to playing next-gen GTA is a next-gen GTA clone, right? Find out later this year.
We may need to wait until 2007 to see what Rockstar has planned for us in its first next-gen Grand Theft Auto game, but if you're anxious to get exercise your inner gangster sooner than that, you may want to keep an eye on Saints Row.
The game, which is being made for THQ by Red Faction and Summoner developer Volition, brings the world of urban gangsterism to violent reality on the Xbox 360, and according to an update on the game's official site you'll be able to get stuck into it on 29 August.
The game is built around the idea of turf and acquisition thereof and plays out on a backdrop of player freedom. Playing as a member of the 3rd Street Saints the underdog of the four gangs, you and your fellow gang members will battle against the other gang - at least, you will when you're not making some money on the side or customising your character.
The fun isn't tethered offline either. The game features Xbox Live modes that let you meet up with people around the world to bring vicious order to the once-quiet streets of Stilwater.
For more on the game, visit THQ's official Saints Row site. An Xbox Live demo is expected soon, though there's been no further word on when that will arrive.
Alex Wollenschlaeger
Editor, Kikizo Games