There’s something timeless about the gripping allure of classic police fiction that captures audiences globally—a style reminiscent of “Starsky & Hutch” or “Miami Vice,” where flawed cops battle against a city’s criminal underworld. Although this portrayal might seem outdated, with not many young people aspiring to be detectives busting drug rings today, it continues to inspire, as evidenced by Fallen Tree Games and their creation, The Precinct.
The Precinct, a top-down “neon-noir” action game, revolves around a rookie cop fresh from the Academy, eager to tackle the swell of organized crime in his new town. Alongside a diverse lineup of stereotypical cop-show characters, players must chip away at this illicit empire through various actions like assault charges, high-speed chases, and even handing out parking tickets.
Having spent a few hours immersed in The Precinct, I can attest, despite not being a die-hard fan of cop shows, the game has a unique charm that I quite enjoyed.
Right from the start, you’re introduced to a crew of officers with names like Kowalski. They exchange banter, each with their perspectives on the city. You’ve got your wise mentor nearing retirement, content with maintaining the status quo, while your character embodies youthful idealism, ready to bring justice to the streets. Yes, it’s stereotypical, but therein lies its appeal. These tropes are executed in a refreshingly nostalgic way. How do you start your day? With a hotdog alongside your partner, who, frankly, might be the biggest fan of hotdogs you’ll ever meet.
Once you’ve had your fill, it’s time to enforce the law on the streets. The game throws you into the thick of it quickly, showcasing its fast-paced side with a bank robbery car chase. Imagine racing through congested highways and narrow alleys, sirens blaring, while your partner fires out the window. Yet, it doesn’t overlook the mundane aspects of police work—patrolling the streets, checking parking meters, and ticketing drivers less mindful of the rules.
One aspect that truly stands out is how seriously the game takes “correct policing.” You’re not some rogue cop here. Opting for unnecessary violence, like shooting a kid caught graffitiing or roughing someone up, results in mission failure or penalties. The game emphasizes using appropriate force, steering clear of glorifying brutal policing.
This approach shapes The Precinct’s core fantasy. You’re not a reckless vigilante; you’re a cop who respects procedures. Keeping track of crimes accurately and following the book is rewarded with extra experience points (XP). It promotes good conduct, rewarding those who strive to be upstanding officers with perks that enhance their duties.
In my brief stint with the game, I glimpsed its deeper layers. The city, kept in fear by three gangs, challenges you to gather evidence against them during routine patrols. Once sufficient proof is collected, it leads to confronting a gang boss, moving from tutorial to tackling more complex crime-solving missions. It’s a cycle of patrolling and pursuing until the major perpetrators are apprehended.
A standout aspect is the city’s design—it’s a wonderfully crafted urban sprawl filled with neon lights, hot dog stalls, and a myriad of details that bring its gritty allure to life. Imagine a mix of the old-school GTA vibe with a sprinkle of True Crime’s essence—that’s the kind of atmosphere it evokes.
Overall, The Precinct seems like a solid entry in police-action gaming, catering to a niche yet passionate audience. You can check out a demo on Steam right now, while the full release is set to drop on May 13.
