Steelport. A city of excess, violence, and unparalleled opportunity for mayhem. In Saints Row: The Third, you’re not just a gangster; you’re a celebrity gangster, and every celebrity gangster needs a signature weapon. But with a sprawling arsenal at your fingertips, from humble pistols to physics-defying sonic blasters, figuring out the “best” weapon can feel overwhelming. This article dives deep into the options, analyzing the pros, cons, and sheer chaotic potential of each contender to help you choose the perfect tool for your reign of ridiculousness.
Understanding The Criteria: More Than Just Damage
Before we crown a champion, let’s define what makes a weapon “the best” in Saints Row: The Third. It’s not solely about raw damage output. Factors like:
- Versatility: Can the weapon handle a variety of situations, from close-quarters brawls to long-range engagements?
- Fun Factor: Let’s be honest, Saints Row is about having a blast. The most effective weapon is often the one that brings the most joy.
- Practicality: Is the weapon readily available, and is its ammunition manageable? A super-powerful weapon is useless if you’re constantly scavenging for ammo.
- Upgrade Potential: Can the weapon be upgraded to become even more devastating?
- Specific Situational Effectiveness: Some weapons excel in certain scenarios.
Considering these aspects allows for a more nuanced understanding of weapon performance beyond simple DPS (Damage Per Second).
The Contenders: Analyzing The Arsenal
Let’s explore some of the most popular and powerful weapons in Saints Row: The Third, examining their strengths and weaknesses.
Pistols: Reliable And Readily Available
The standard pistols, like the 45. Shepherd, are reliable early-game options. They offer decent accuracy and a manageable rate of fire. However, their damage output is relatively low compared to other weapons.
The upgrade path for pistols focuses on increasing damage, accuracy, and magazine size, making them more viable in later stages. The dual-wielding upgrade further enhances their effectiveness, providing a significant boost to damage output.
The Kobra
A notable pistol is the Kobra, which, while standard, can be upgraded to become a fairly effective sidearm, especially when dual-wielded. It is reliable when you’re in a pinch.
Submachine Guns (SMGs): Spray And Pray
SMGs, such as the McManus 2020, offer a high rate of fire, making them effective at shredding enemies at close to medium range. Their accuracy suffers at longer distances.
Upgrading SMGs improves their accuracy and reduces recoil, making them more manageable for sustained fire. The extended magazine upgrade is a must-have for prolonged engagements.
Shotguns: Close-Range Devastation
Shotguns, like the AS3 Ultimax, are devastating at close range. They can quickly eliminate enemies with a single blast. Their effectiveness drops off significantly at longer distances.
Upgrading shotguns increases their damage and range, making them more versatile. The full auto upgrade transforms them into rapid-fire killing machines.
The Riot Shotgun
The Riot Shotgun is arguably one of the best shotguns, boasting solid damage, great range, and a manageable fire rate that allows for effective crowd control. Upgrading it makes it even more devastating.
Assault Rifles: The All-Rounders
Assault rifles, like the AK47 and the SKR-7 Spetzgun, are versatile weapons that excel at medium range. They offer a balance of damage, accuracy, and rate of fire.
Upgrading assault rifles enhances their accuracy, damage, and magazine size. The grenade launcher attachment adds another layer of tactical options. The AK47 is a staple for a reason, it can be relied upon in most combat scenarios.
Sniper Rifles: Long-Range Precision
Sniper rifles, like the McManus 2015, are ideal for taking out enemies from a distance. They offer high accuracy and damage but have a slow rate of fire.
Upgrading sniper rifles increases their damage and zoom level, allowing for even more precise shots. The explosive rounds upgrade adds a fun and devastating element.
Heavy Weapons: Unleashing Chaos
Heavy weapons are where Saints Row: The Third truly shines. These weapons are designed for maximum destruction and mayhem.
The RPG Launcher
The RPG launcher is a classic for a reason. It provides explosive power capable of taking out vehicles and groups of enemies with ease. The homing upgrade is essential for ensuring that your rockets hit their intended targets.
The M2 Grenade Launcher
The M2 Grenade Launcher, rapid-firing grenades, and boasting a large area of effect, it is perfect for crowd control and dealing with armored vehicles.
The Mini-Gun
The Mini-Gun, a devastating weapon, chews through anything in its path with a ridiculously high rate of fire. It’s perfect for mowing down hordes of enemies.
The Annihilator RPG
An upgraded RPG launcher that fires multiple rockets at once. It turns you into a walking artillery barrage.
The Predator Drone
The Predator Drone allows you to remotely control a drone equipped with a machine gun and missiles. It is perfect for clearing out areas from a safe distance.
Apocafists
They transform your fists into weapons of mass destruction. Each punch sends enemies flying.
Special Weapons: Unique And Overpowered
Saints Row: The Third features a collection of unique and overpowered weapons that defy the laws of physics and common sense.
The Penetrator
A giant, purple dildo used as a melee weapon. It is surprisingly effective at incapacitating enemies.
The Nocturne
The Nocturne fires a burst of bats that disorient and damage enemies. It is especially effective against large groups.
The Mollusk Launcher
The Mollusk Launcher fires mind-controlling octopi that turn enemies against each other. It is a fun and strategic weapon for causing chaos.
The Dildo Bat
Similar to the Penetrator, but a bit more discreet (relatively speaking). Effective for blunt force trauma.
The Sonic Boom
The Sonic Boom emits a sonic blast that sends enemies flying. Its range is significant.
The Flamethrower
Sets everything ablaze. Great for area denial and causing widespread panic.
The Pulse Rifle
A futuristic rifle that fires powerful energy blasts. Accurate and packs a punch.
The Case For The RPG Launcher: A Strong Contender
While the “best” weapon is subjective, the RPG Launcher consistently ranks among the top choices for its sheer destructive power and versatility. Here’s why:
- Explosive Damage: The RPG Launcher deals massive damage to vehicles, groups of enemies, and even bosses. A direct hit can instantly eliminate most targets.
- Crowd Control: The RPG’s area-of-effect damage makes it excellent for clearing out groups of enemies.
- Vehicle Destruction: Taking down enemy vehicles is a breeze with the RPG Launcher.
- The Homing Upgrade: This upgrade is crucial for ensuring that your rockets hit their targets, especially in chaotic situations.
However, the RPG Launcher also has its drawbacks:
- Limited Ammunition: Ammunition can be scarce, especially early in the game.
- Self-Damage: Firing the RPG Launcher at close range can be dangerous, as the explosion can damage or even kill you.
- Reload Time: The reload time can be slow, leaving you vulnerable in close-quarters combat.
The Case For The M2 Grenade Launcher: Another Powerful Choice
Another weapon that warrants serious consideration is the M2 Grenade Launcher. Its rapid-fire capabilities and explosive rounds make it a formidable weapon in a variety of situations.
- Rapid Fire: Unlike the RPG, the M2 Grenade Launcher can fire grenades in rapid succession.
- Area of Effect: Its explosive rounds cause significant damage within a large radius.
- Vehicle Destruction: Effective against vehicles, especially when fired in bursts.
- Crowd Control: Excels at clearing out groups of enemies due to its area of effect and rapid fire.
However, just like the RPG, the M2 Grenade Launcher has its limitations:
- Ammunition Consumption: Its rapid-fire nature means you’ll burn through ammo quickly.
- Indirect Fire: Requires some skill to aim effectively, as the grenades have a trajectory arc.
- Self-Damage: Can harm the user if fired too close to the target.
Situational Champions: Weapons That Shine In Specific Scenarios
While the RPG Launcher and M2 Grenade Launcher offer overall versatility, some weapons excel in specific situations:
- Close-Quarters Combat: The Riot Shotgun and Apocafists are devastating at close range.
- Long-Range Engagements: The Sniper Rifle with explosive rounds is ideal for taking out enemies from a distance.
- Crowd Control: The Nocturne and Mollusk Launcher can turn enemies against each other.
- Vehicle Combat: The Annihilator RPG is perfect for taking down heavily armored vehicles.
The Verdict: There’s No Single “Best” Weapon
Ultimately, there is no single “best” weapon in Saints Row: The Third. The ideal weapon depends on your playstyle, the situation, and your personal preferences.
The RPG Launcher and M2 Grenade Launcher are strong contenders for their overall versatility and destructive power. However, other weapons, such as the Riot Shotgun, Sniper Rifle, and special weapons, can be incredibly effective in specific scenarios.
The key is to experiment with different weapons and find the ones that you enjoy using and that complement your playstyle. Saints Row: The Third is all about having fun, so choose the weapons that bring you the most joy and let the chaos begin!
The Importance Of Upgrades
Regardless of the weapon you choose, upgrading it is essential for maximizing its effectiveness. Upgrades can improve damage, accuracy, magazine size, and add special abilities. Prioritize upgrading your favorite weapons to turn them into true instruments of destruction. Experiment with different upgrade combinations to find what works best for you.
Mastering Your Arsenal
Knowing your weapons is just as important as having them. Practice using different weapons to learn their strengths and weaknesses. Understand their range, rate of fire, and recoil patterns. Experiment with different tactics and strategies to find the most effective ways to use each weapon.
Embrace The Chaos
Saints Row: The Third is a game that encourages experimentation and creativity. Don’t be afraid to try out different weapons and tactics, even if they seem unconventional. Embrace the chaos and have fun! After all, that’s what Saints Row is all about.
What Makes A Weapon “the Best” In Saints Row: The Third, Considering The Variety Available?
Defining the “best” weapon is subjective and depends on playstyle and mission objectives. Generally, a top-tier weapon excels in multiple areas: damage output against various enemy types (including vehicles), ease of use, availability, and utility beyond just dealing damage. Factors like ammo capacity, reload speed, and special abilities also contribute to a weapon’s overall effectiveness.
For example, while a rocket launcher offers significant burst damage, its limited ammo and slow reload might make it unsuitable for prolonged firefights. A weapon like the Penetrator, while humorous, can be surprisingly effective at crowd control due to its knockback effect. Therefore, the “best” weapon is often the one that best complements your preferred combat style and tactical needs.
Is There A Universally Agreed-upon “best” Weapon According To The Saints Row Community?
No, there isn’t a single weapon universally agreed upon as the absolute best. Player preferences vary significantly. Some players prioritize raw power and choose weapons like the M2 HMG or the Annihilator RPG. Others value versatility and opt for weapons like the McManus 2020 or the Tombstone Shotgun.
Ultimately, the community’s opinions are diverse, influenced by individual playstyles, preferred missions, and even personal preferences for certain aesthetics or weapon sounds. Therefore, the “best” weapon is more accurately described as a selection of highly effective tools, each with its strengths and weaknesses, catering to different needs within the game.
What Are The Primary Contenders For The Title Of “best Weapon” And Why Are They Considered Strong?
Several weapons frequently contend for the title of “best,” including the Annihilator RPG, the M2 HMG, the McManus 2020, and the Tombstone Shotgun. The Annihilator is favored for its devastating explosive power, capable of taking down vehicles and large groups of enemies with ease. The M2 HMG provides sustained, high-damage output, ideal for suppressing enemies and tearing through armored vehicles.
The McManus 2020 excels at long-range engagements with its sniper capabilities and explosive rounds, offering both precision and destructive power. The Tombstone Shotgun, particularly when fully upgraded, is incredibly powerful at close range, capable of one-shotting many enemies and providing excellent crowd control. These weapons are considered strong due to their high damage, utility, and relative ease of acquisition.
How Does Weapon Customization Impact The Effectiveness Of Different Weapons?
Weapon customization plays a crucial role in maximizing the effectiveness of any weapon in Saints Row: The Third. Upgrades like extended magazines increase sustained fire, while damage upgrades amplify the weapon’s destructive potential. Accuracy upgrades improve targeting at longer ranges, and recoil reduction upgrades enhance control during rapid fire.
Special ammunition types, such as explosive rounds or incendiary bullets, add significant utility, allowing weapons to deal area-of-effect damage or set enemies on fire. Customization allows players to tailor weapons to their specific playstyles and adapt them to various combat scenarios, turning already powerful weapons into truly devastating tools.
Is The Penetrator Sword A Viable Option For Serious Gameplay, Or Is It Purely A Novelty Weapon?
While the Penetrator might appear to be purely a novelty weapon due to its comedic nature and design, it’s surprisingly viable for serious gameplay. Its reach is significant, allowing for effective crowd control and quick takedowns of unarmored enemies. The knockback effect is also quite powerful, creating breathing room in tight situations and disrupting enemy attacks.
However, the Penetrator does have limitations. It’s less effective against heavily armored enemies and vehicles. Its limited range compared to firearms means players need to get up close and personal, which can be risky. While not a replacement for traditional firearms in all situations, the Penetrator offers a unique and surprisingly effective melee option, particularly for players who enjoy a more aggressive and comedic approach to combat.
What Are Some Underrated Or Less Commonly Discussed Weapons That Are Surprisingly Effective?
The Shock Hammer is an underrated melee weapon that deals significant damage and has a wide area-of-effect. It can quickly dispatch groups of enemies and even stun vehicles. The Drone, while primarily used for hacking, can also be used as a surprisingly effective distraction or even as a makeshift weapon, allowing players to manipulate the environment to their advantage.
The Baseball Bat, particularly with upgrades like increased damage and fire damage, can be a surprisingly effective melee weapon, especially early in the game. These weapons, while not as flashy as rocket launchers or machine guns, offer unique utility and can be surprisingly effective in the right hands and situations, proving that effectiveness isn’t always about raw firepower.
How Does The “best” Weapon Choice Change Depending On The Specific Mission Or Activity In Saints Row: The Third?
The “best” weapon choice is heavily influenced by the mission or activity. For missions involving vehicular combat or destroying large structures, the Annihilator RPG is almost essential. For close-quarters combat scenarios or missions that require quickly clearing rooms, the Tombstone Shotgun is an excellent choice. Missions involving long-range engagements benefit from the accuracy and power of the McManus 2020.
Defending a static location or suppressing large groups of enemies often calls for the sustained firepower of the M2 HMG. Certain missions, like those involving zombie waves, might benefit from weapons with fire damage or crowd control capabilities. Therefore, adapting your weapon loadout to the specific demands of each mission is crucial for maximizing effectiveness and ensuring success.