Saints Row 2, the 2009 action game developed by Volition, has finally received its console-exclusive DLC on PC, thanks to the efforts of the modding team behind the Juiced Patch. This move is a significant win for PC gamers who have been left out of the additional content for over a decade. For fans who have been waiting to fully experience the game as intended, this update is a welcome, albeit long overdue, addition.
Quick Facts — Saints Row 2
| Developer | Volition |
|---|---|
| Platform(s) | Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC |
| Release Date | 2009 (PC port) |
| Genre | Action |
The DLC content, which includes three packs—Ultor Exposed, Corporate Warfare, and the Unkut Pack—was originally limited to Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 owners. These packs introduced missions targeting the nefarious corporation Ultor (also central to Volition's Red Faction series), new vehicles, extensive clothing and hairstyle options (including the infamous Balding Mullet), and an NPC homie voiced by Tera Patrick. The Unkut Pack alone added over 60 customization options, significantly enhancing player character personalization. PC players, however, were stuck with a buggier port and none of these extras, a historical shortcoming now addressed.
About the Juiced Patch Mod
The Juiced Patch 9.0.0+, known for rectifying numerous issues in the PC version of Saints Row 2, has now incorporated the single-player components of the DLC. While the modding team hints at possibly adding the multiplayer aspects in the future, the current focus is on ensuring the single-player content and new co-op missions for the DLC missions are fully functional. Notably, the mod also fixes overlooked issues from the original DLC, such as instant arc-based unlocks and vehicle problems that went unnoticed.
To install the DLC mod, players need a clean save and the latest Juiced Patch version. The process involves downloading the PC DLC mod and merging its folder into the Saints Row 2 root directory. However, compatibility issues exist with certain other mods like Gentlemen of the Row, and only the latest Juiced Patch is supported.
Key Features and Player Experience
The update significantly enhances the player experience in several ways:
- Customization Options: The Unkut Pack's 60+ new customization options mean players can further personalize their characters, adding depth to the game's identity aspect.
- Missions Against Ultor: New story content focused on taking down the shared universe's villainous corporation, Ultor, provides more narrative depth and challenges.
- Co-op for New Missions: The ability to play the new DLC missions in co-op introduces a fresh multiplayer dynamic, encouraging collaborative gameplay.
These additions not only extend gameplay but also align the PC version with its console counterparts in terms of content, a long-sought parity.
What This Means for Players
This mod is more than just an update—it's a restoration of the complete Saints Row 2 experience for PC gamers. Given the historical bugginess of the PC port, this effort by the modding community is a testament to the game's enduring fan base. While the wait has been lengthy, the inclusion of these DLCs, especially with co-op functionality, revitalizes the game for both new and veteran players. It's a clear example of how community-driven projects can breathe new life into older titles.
However, the incompatibility with certain mods may disappoint some users who have heavily customized their game. Nonetheless, for the majority, this update is a welcome injection of new life into a classic, making it an ideal time for players to revisit or discover Saints Row 2 on PC.
Criticisms and Historical Context
Historically, the PC port of Saints Row 2 was marred by bugs, making the exclusion of DLC content a double disappointment. This mod addresses both issues to some extent, though the original port's problems underscore the challenges of post-launch support for PC titles at the time. The success of this mod highlights the community's role in rectifying historical oversights in game development and post-release support.
The mod's release also sparks reflection on the evolution of DLC distribution. The original Xbox 360 DLC required Microsoft Points, a now-defunct currency system, further highlighting the challenges of preserving gaming content over time. This mod ensures the DLC's longevity, independent of obsolete payment systems.
