Overview
Saints Row: Gat out of Hell is an action‑adventure video game developed by Volition and published by Deep Silver. It is a spin‑off of the Saints Row series and serves as a narrative sequel to Saints Row IV (2013). The game was released on October 20 2015 for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows (via Steam).
Gameplay and Setting
The title follows the series protagonists, the Boss and Johnny Gat, as they travel to a representation of Hell to rescue Johnny's soul after it is ripped from his body. Gameplay combines open‑world exploration, third‑person shooting, and vehicular combat, employing mechanics similar to those of Saints Row IV, including a “Super Powers” system that grants characters abilities such as elemental attacks. Players can switch between the Boss and Johnny, each possessing distinct powers and combat styles. The game features a campaign mode, optional side activities, and a cooperative multiplayer mode for the main story.
Development
Development began after the release of Saints Row IV. Volition used an updated version of the engine employed for Saints Row IV to create the new environments and darker aesthetic associated with the game's infernal setting. The project's scope was limited compared to mainline entries, focusing on a shorter single‑player experience and a multiplayer component. Voice actors from earlier entries, including Sam Witwer (the Boss) and Snoop Dogg (Johnny Gat), reprised their roles.
Reception
Critical response was mixed. Review aggregators recorded average scores in the mid‑50s (out of 100) for console versions. Critics commonly noted the game’s shorter length, reduced open‑world scale, and repetitive mission design relative to previous Saints Row titles. However, the humor, voice performances, and the novelty of the Hell-themed setting received some positive remarks.
Commercial Performance
Sales figures for Saints Row: Gat out of Hell were modest compared to earlier mainline entries in the franchise. Exact worldwide unit counts have not been publicly disclosed by Deep Silver or Volition.
Legacy
The game remains the most recent Saints Row title released before the series entered a development hiatus. In 2022, a reboot of the Saints Row franchise was announced, indicating a new direction for the series separate from the continuity of Gat out of Hell.
