Saints Row IV, developed by Volition and released in 2013, is best known for its over-the-top humor, absurd superpowers, and open-world chaos. But lurking beneath the surface is a bold—and intentionally shallow—romance system that’s more than meets the eye.
Romance at the Push of a Button
Romance in Saints Row IV is less about emotional depth and more about comedic commentary. Instead of building relationships over time, you trigger them with a simple button press aboard your spaceship. That’s it—one moment, you’re gathering your crew; the next, you can “romance” them with no buildup. It’s a clear parody of games like Mass Effect, reducing emotional arcs to quick laughs and brief black-screen fadeouts.
Inclusive and Unexpectedly Progressive
Despite—or perhaps because of—its tongue-in-cheek tone, the romance system in Saints Row IV deserves credit for its inclusivity. Every romanceable crewmate, regardless of gender, can be pursued by either male or female versions of the Boss, reflecting a fluid and open approach to sexuality. The game doesn’t gate romance routes based on orientation, and characters respond humorously to same-sex advances.
A Collection of Quick, Characteristic Encounters
These brief romance scenes are short-form, character-specific mini-interludes—Kinzie might punch you before leaping into your arms, Matt asks to be called Nyte Blade, and quirky cameos deliver bizarre, memorable moments.
Fans fondly remember these as “romances,” but in reality, they’re gag-filled skits—amusing, easily accessible, and completely unserious.
Reception: Loved for What It Is
Critics praised Saints Row IV’s humor and irreverent tone, with its romance system frequently noted as both a parody and a highlight of its carefree design. VentureBeat marveled at how the romance played into the game’s humor and structure: gathering your crew, heading to the ship, then… one button away from “boning down.”
Another commentator argues that Saints Row IV’s approach might actually be ideal—romance without drama, more about comedy and sexual agency than emotional manipulation.
The Bigger Picture
Saints Row IV doesn’t pretend to offer deep, transformative romances, but that’s precisely its point. It flips the formula on its head—rather than building emotional bonds, it lets players indulge quick, inclusive, and often nonsensical interactions. It’s romance as parody, yes—but also romance as power fantasy with a wink.
That said, many critics lament that it would’ve been interesting to see these relationships fleshed out more. One review called the system a missed opportunity, wishing for more lingering connection beyond the quick fade-to-black punchlines.
Verdict
Saints Row IV offers an unconventional romance experience—boldly shallow, laughably direct, and brilliantly inclusive. Its romances aren’t built to last—but they’re memorable, hilarious, and subversively open-minded. For players seeking heartfelt arcs, look elsewhere. But if you want a game that laughs in the face of expectations while still letting you flirt freely with anyone on your crew—regardless of gender or alien species—Saints Row IV delivers in riotous style.
