The more recent entries in the Saints Row series really took the character creation elements to the next level. Most players will likely remember the brightly colored metallic skin and wild face slider options that allowed for some pretty unique characters. With the Saints Row reboot releasing later this year, information on the character creator has been recently shown off in a trailer. Needless to say, the ground-up approach that the reboot is taking also extends to the character creation options.
The customization-focused trailer that was released on April 20th gives a general look at what to expect from the Saints Row reboot, both in terms of vehicles and characters. Focusing on character customization, it shows some broad-stroke features that emphasize the character creator’s strengths. The trailer might go by a bit fast, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot to dig apart.
Starting out with skin, players are given total control over almost everything. There are options for different textures, skin details, tans and a full color wheel for choosing skin color. One element that seems incredibly apparent with this new character creator is the focus on representation, with options for creating individuals from all walks of life. In fact, the upcoming Saints Row reboot features character customization options that rival life simulators like The Sims.
The same level of incredible detail is also available for hair. It appears as though players are free to apply fully custom gradients to their hairstyles, allowing them to emulate different hair dye styles. Hair gradients existed in previous Saints Row games, but they were always pre-determined and somewhat limited in variety. Given that the custom color options are also available for hair, there’s nearly an unlimited number of options for hairstyles. This customization even extends to eyebrows.
It seems that body sculpting also gives fans what they’ve come to expect from previous games. The trailer briefly shows off the range of body weights for male characters, offering a glimpse at just how much freedom there is when it comes to shaping the main character. It looks like players can edit everything from their character’s fat distribution to their muscle mass. It’s unknown how in-depth the body sculpting really gets, but what’s been shown so far looks promising.
Other body-related details include the ability to create vampire-like pointed ears and fully customize teeth and eyes. For the body artists out there, make-up and tattoos are also options. Another notable change from previous games is that muscle definition isn’t tied to the character’s body size, as it’s now available as its own separate slider. Body customization is always tricky in these kinds of games, but it looks as though the Saints Row reboot is providing maximum freedom to players.
Clothing has also gotten a huge rework, with the ability to layer clothing items returning after an absence in Saints Row: The Third and Saints Row 4. Not only can players fully customize the color of their clothing items, but there’s also a wide range of materials and patterns to choose from. From flossy rainbows to grimy clay-like rock textures, there’s a huge variety of materials to help build a unique look. A nice added plus is that clothing isn’t locked behind gender options.
While there’s certainly been a renewed focus on grounding the Saints Row series with the reboot, it’s more than clear that the trademark silliness is here to stay. Not only does a legally distinct Shrek pop up during the customization trailer, but the trailer shows off plenty of whacky clothing items as well. Animal mascot outfits, wizard hats, bunny slippers and novelty drink helmets all point to the character customization being incredibly versatile.
Expanding on the element of representation mentioned earlier, a small yet appreciated in-game feature is the inclusion of prosthetic limbs, which appear to be as customizable as the clothing items. It’s a small detail that really speaks to the direction the reboot is taking the character creation process. While the trademark novelty of previous entries is here to stay, there are also options that welcome people of all kinds into the Saints family.
What’s been revealed so far is just a brief overview of how players can customize their bosses in the Saints Row reboot. Hopefully, Volition follows the tradition of previous Saints Row games and offers fans a chance to dig their teeth into the character creator as the August 2022 release date looms closer. The upcoming reboot really looks to be one of the most customizable Saints Row games yet, which can only be good news for the reboot’s overall quality.
Read Next
About The Author