The Precinct: A Game That Perfectly Encapsulates the Classic Cinematic Cop Experience — Complete with Due Process and Paperwork

A certain style of police fiction seems to have an undying charm, captivating audiences globally. It’s the kind of narrative you find in shows like Starsky and Hutch or Miami Vice—these classic, action-packed dramas where flawed detectives do their best to bring order to chaotic cities. Though this portrayal might feel a bit old school, there’s still a niche for it, as evidenced by the dedication of the folks at Fallen Tree Games with their latest creation, The Precinct.

In this top-down, “neon-noir” action game, players step into the shoes of a fresh-faced, newly graduated police officer who finds himself in a town swarming with organized crime. Accompanied by a diverse cast of quintessential cop-show characters, players will help chip away at the criminal underworld, one high-speed chase and illegal parking ticket at a time.

Having spent a few hours immersed in The Precinct, I must admit, while I’m not usually one to commend The Met, there’s something captivating about what Fallen Tree Games has created. And if I may, it’s something I truly enjoyed.

Right from the get-go, you’re introduced to a group of officers with names like Kowalski. They banter and jest, offering different perspectives on the city’s deteriorating state. Some cops, like your mentor who is conveniently only a few weeks away from retirement, prefer to avoid ruffling feathers. You, on the other hand, bring a youthful, idealistic zeal for justice that you can’t wait to unleash on the streets. Sure, it’s all a bit cliché, but therein lies the appeal. The game kicks off with a charming everyday moment—a hotdog break with your partner, an absolute hotdog aficionado.

After fueling up, you hit the bustling streets to enforce the law, which can mean anything from intense car chases with bank robbers through busy highways and tight alleyways, to the calmer task of patrolling and issuing tickets for parking violations.

What stands out in The Precinct is its commitment to portraying “correct policing.” You aren’t a ruthless enforcer. If you recklessly shoot a graffiti artist, it’s game over. Go overboard physically, and you’ll face serious repercussions. Appropriate force is the core principle, reflecting an intention not to glamorize excessive police violence, a sensitive topic today.

This honor towards proper procedures is a fundamental part of the game’s police fantasy. You’re not the standard rogue officer; instead, adhering to rules is paramount. Success comes from carefully noting criminal activities and strictly following protocol. This methodical approach rewards you with additional experience points (XP), encouraging players to be model officers.

During my time exploring The Precinct, I discovered the game’s larger framework. The city is controlled by three formidable gangs. By tackling crimes head-on, you gather evidence that eventually leads to confronting a gang leader. It’s a loop of solving cases until enough clues warrant busting a major player.

Much of this captivating experience owes itself to the meticulously designed city. Adorned with neon lights, hotdog stalls, and urban chaos, it invites exploration. It delivers the nostalgia of classic GTA games with a splash of True Crime’s ambiance and narrative style.

Overall, The Precinct seems to be a perfect fit for fans of this classic genre. If you’re curious, there’s a demo available now on Steam, and the full game is set to release on May 13.