Saints Row IV to be released in Australia September 12

Australian distributor All Interactive Entertainment (AIE) today confirmed the new release date for upcoming open-world action game Saints Row IV. Originally scheduled for release on August 22, the game will be available from September 12 for the PC and Xbox 360 and September 19 for the PlayStation 3.

Customers who pre-order Saints Row IV at Australian retailers and pick up the game within 48 hours of its launch will receive a free Presidential Pack DLC code, as a "thank you to fans for their patience".

The Presidential Pack DLC contains aesthetic customisations for the president of the United States, enabling players to dress him as former American leaders.

Saints Row IV was refused classification twice by the Australian Classification Board, banning it from sale in the country. The game was initially refused classification for its "implied sexual violence" and use of illicit drugs referred to as "alien narcotics".

Publisher Koch Media launched an appeal on the Australian Classification Board's decision, which upheld the ban on the grounds of in-game drug use.

A modified version of the game with the drug-themed mission taken out was submitted for classification and eventually granted an MA15+ rating.

Saints Row IV launched in North America on August 20. The game was positively received in GameSpot's review, praised for its fun combat abilities and "very funny writing".