The wait for Grand Theft Auto VI is proving to be a long one, with fans eagerly anticipating its arrival. Rockstar Games hasn’t released a new instalment in the beloved franchise for a substantial period – 13 years this September, to be precise. It’s no surprise, then, that anticipation for GTA 6 is reaching fever pitch, especially with its promised release date this year.
However, the November 19 launch date still feels a considerable way off. What’s more, there’s a lingering possibility that the game could face further delays, pushing its release back to 2027. While GTA V and its robust online component, GTA Online, have done a commendable job of keeping players engaged, some might be looking for something fresh to sink their teeth into. Fortunately, the gaming landscape is dotted with titles that echo the open-world mayhem and criminal enterprise that GTA is known for. Many of these “GTA clones” remain incredibly entertaining and are well worth revisiting, even if they don’t quite capture the same magic as the original inspiration.
Saints Row 2: A Hilarious Detour
When discussions turn to games that emulate the Grand Theft Auto formula, the Saints Row series almost invariably comes up. While the series’ reputation has taken a hit due to the widely panned 2022 reboot – a move that unfortunately contributed to the demise of developer Volition – its earlier entries hold a special place in many gamers’ hearts.
Following criticism that the initial Saints Row game was too derivative of GTA, Saints Row 2 carved out its own distinct identity. It leaned heavily into humour and outlandish, over-the-top gameplay. This approach was amplified in subsequent sequels, right up until the aforementioned reboot. Saints Row 2 is widely considered the pinnacle of the series, celebrated for its absurd narrative and a plethora of side activities that offer endless amusement. While some of its humour might not have aged perfectly since its 2008 release, its commitment to not taking itself too seriously is still commendable.
For those looking to dive into this chaotic world, the Xbox 360 version is backward compatible with Xbox Series X, allowing you to download it for a modest sum. The original PC version is also readily available on Steam.
Exploring Other Open-World Adventures
Beyond the Saints Row franchise, several other titles have offered compelling open-world experiences with a criminal bent. These games often provide similar gameplay loops of driving, shooting, and navigating sprawling urban environments, all while engaging in various illicit activities.
Sleeping Dogs: Set in Hong Kong, this game offers a unique blend of martial arts combat and undercover police work. Players step into the shoes of Wei Shen, an ex-convict trying to infiltrate the Triads. The game boasts a compelling story, brutal hand-to-hand combat, and a richly detailed city to explore. The focus on melee combat and the authentic Hong Kong setting help it stand out from its contemporaries.
Mafia: Definitive Edition: This title offers a more grounded and cinematic take on the crime genre. Set in the 1930s, it tells the story of Tommy Angelo, a taxi driver who gets entangled with the Italian mafia. The game is renowned for its atmospheric presentation, engaging narrative, and faithful recreation of a bygone era. While less focused on the sheer anarchy of GTA, it excels in its storytelling and immersive world-building.
Watch Dogs 2: While the original Watch Dogs received mixed reviews, its sequel, Watch Dogs 2, significantly improved upon the formula. Set in a vibrant San Francisco, players take on the role of Marcus Holloway, a hacker who joins DedSec to take down a corrupt operating system. The game offers a more lighthearted and satirical take on hacking and urban exploration, with a strong emphasis on player freedom and creative problem-solving. The ability to manipulate the environment and hack into virtually anything adds a unique layer to the open-world experience.
The Enduring Appeal of the Genre
The enduring popularity of Grand Theft Auto speaks to a fundamental appeal in open-world crime simulators. These games allow players to inhabit a fantasy of freedom, power, and rebellion, often within meticulously crafted digital worlds. While GTA 6’s eventual release is eagerly awaited, the legacy of its predecessors and the quality of its spiritual successors ensure that there are plenty of ways to indulge in this unique brand of gaming escapism. Whether you’re drawn to the over-the-top humour of Saints Row, the gritty realism of Mafia, or the unique mechanics of Watch Dogs, the open-world crime genre continues to offer diverse and engaging experiences for players worldwide.
