THQ Inc. today announced Saints Row 2, the sequel to the multi-million unit selling open-world game Saints Row, has now shipped to retail outlets nationwide for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system. In Saints Row 2, players will lead the 3rd Street Saints in a battle against ruthless gangs and an evil corporation to reclaim the streets of Stilwater. Internally developed by leading open-world designers Volition, Inc., Saints Row 2 features unmatched customization options, intense combat, both competitive and cooperative online multiplayer and an arsenal of over-the-top weaponry and vehicles. The game is now available nationwide for the suggested retail price of $59.99 and will launch worldwide on October 17.

"The Saints Row franchise has earned critical praise for its over-the-top game play experience featuring the most robust player options on the market, and Saints Row 2 is expanding on that in every way," said Bob Aniello, senior vice president, worldwide marketing, THQ. "The game is advancing the genre once again with expanded customization options, revamped over-the-top combat and full co-op support through the entire single player campaign."

"Saints Row 2 was designed to give players unlimited options and the freedom to complete the game in many different ways," said Mike Kulas, vice president, product development and general manager, Volition, Inc., "Gamers can customize their characters, clothes, gangs, cribs and vehicles, take part in hundreds of different activities, diversions and missions, and do it all with a friend online. There are limitless game play options to discover."

Press worldwide has recognized Saints Row 2 as the next big open world game:

"...if you’re a fan of open world games -- go out and pick up a copy
 of Saints Row 2."
                                              - IGN (US) 8.2 out of 10

"...everything in Saints Row 2 is over-the-top...you have the freedom
 to do whatever you want."
                                     - Worthplaying (US) 9.2 out of 10

"More fun than GTA IV."
                                   - Gamereactor (Finland) 9 out of 10

"Saints Row 2 is a sprawling sandbox overflowing with toys"
                  - Official Xbox 360 Magazine (Australia) 9 out of 10

About Saints Row 2

In Saints Row 2, gamers awake from a coma to find the city of Stilwater overtaken by back-stabbing thugs, ruthless gangs and the gleaming Ultor Corporation. Tasked with reclaiming their city, players will seek out revenge and bring the Saints back to their former glory. Saints Row 2 features unmatched customization options, including character, clothing, crib, gang and vehicle customization. The game also features over-the-top combat with all new weapons, melee combat options, and new vehicles including cars, motorcycles, boats, helicopters and planes. In addition, Saints Row 2 offers drop-in, drop-out co-op support through the entire single player game as well as full online competitive multiplayer options. Internally developed by Volition, Inc., Saints Row 2 is now available for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and wireless devices. For more information on Saints Row 2, please visit www.saintsrow.com, or to join The Row community site, visit community.saintsrow.com.