Getting these customized looks takes time to collect, each of which can be found or purchased. But don’t fret; it’s not like GTA IV in terms of being realistic. This is over-the-top explode-everything have fun gameplay with the safety off.

Right now, Saints Row 2 is nearly out of beta and soon getting its polish on, though what we’ve seen has it graphically as appealing as GTA IV. It’s also got an entirely cooperative campaign that not only allows players to watch cutscenes together that make sense (since both characters are different), it actually treats each player as the main character. Cutscenes will show differently on both players’ screens, showing only their character as the one initiating the story. And with character customization detailed enough to have a choice of six different available voices for all dialog, it’s easy to tell who’s initiating the story.

Following this ideology, every area you explore is available to play around in. Gameplay is bloody and explosive and made intentionally to not be overly realistic. The story is that way, the game isn’t. Earning respect and money is key, and opening doors for new missions is important to get more money and respect. The best way to do that is make the biggest mess you can and make sure not to clean up.

Or to join the local fight club. Yes, that’s right, now there’s a fight club that players can join which not only earns respect and money, but also opens up missions. Players fight against any number of enemies, and yes, it works in coop too. Add a friend and double the fun. Right now, there’s no word whether splitting the profits is necessary, but it can’t be all that bad.

Saints Row 2 is set for release on October 14 for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.