The Saints' media empire has grown exponentially since they merged with the Ultor Corporation after defeating their rivals in Stilwater. However, their success is put to the test when a fellow actor attempts to "research" his role for the Saints movie and gets caught robbing a bank. The Syndicate bribes the police, releasing the Saints' leader, Gat, and Shaundi, but they refuse to give up two thirds of their revenue made in Stilwater, leading to a gunfight.
Seeking revenge, the Saints relocate to Steelport, a city struggling with economic failure. The Syndicate has taken over Steelport, controlling it through three gangs: The Morningstar, Luchadores, and The Deckers. The Saints must take control of the city, fighting other gangs and reclaiming their former glory.
Saints Row: The Third is the third main game in the sandbox shooting and driving series. The protagonist explores the city of Steelport, performs missions that advance the story, and engages in side activities such as Activities, Strongholds, and Flashpoints. Completing missions earns money, weapons, cars, and gang reputation.
Unlike past games, The Third uses reputation as experience points to upgrade weapons and cars. Money can be used to customize the appearance of the gang, upload characters to an online community, or buy shops and properties in Steelport. Some missions require different approaches, with choices that affect the outcome.
New novelty weapons are introduced, alongside traditional arsenal. Players can call down airstrikes on enemy camps or use a remote control electric bug to control vehicles from a range. Health regenerates at a faster rate out of combat, and most actions can be sped up by holding down a special button.
The game features a co-op mode, where the second player participates in all missions and activities, receiving credit for completion. Co-op features require a single-use online pass, but there is no competitive multiplayer mode in the game.