Fallen Tree Games’ The Precinct invites players into the rain-slicked streets of Averno City, a neon-lit metropolis teeming with crime and corruption. As rookie officer Nick Cordell Jr., players patrol this 1980s-inspired urban sprawl, balancing routine police work with high-stakes investigations. While the game captures the gritty atmosphere of classic cop dramas, it occasionally stumbles in delivering a consistently engaging experience despite managing to entertain.
From the outset, The Precinct immerses players in its stylized world. The game’s visual design, characterized by neon lights reflecting off wet pavement and a dynamic day-night cycle, effectively evokes the ambiance of 1980s crime films mixed with a GTA-like perspective – and we mean GTA 1 and 2 here. This atmospheric presentation enhances the sense of place, making Averno City feel alive and lived-in.
Gameplay revolves around responding to various incidents, from minor infractions to major crimes. The inclusion of vehicular and helicopter chases adds excitement, with destructible environments amplifying the intensity of pursuits. These sequences are among the game’s highlights, providing adrenaline-fueled moments that break up the sometimes mundane-seeming routine of patrol duties.
The central storyline, involving Nick’s investigation into his father’s mysterious death, offers a compelling thread that ties missions together. Interactions with a diverse cast of characters, including fellow officers and city residents, enrich the narrative and provide context to the unfolding events. These elements contribute to a deeper understanding of Averno’s societal dynamics and Nick’s personal journey.
Despite its strengths, The Precinct faces challenges in maintaining gameplay variety. Some missions become repetitive over time, and the AI behavior can be inconsistent, occasionally detracting from the immersion. Additionally, while the game offers a range of activities, the balance between procedural tasks and narrative-driven content could be improved to sustain player engagement – which can wane once you stray from the main story for too long.
On the PS5, The Precinct delivers a smooth experience, with responsive controls and stable frame rates. The DualSense controller’s features are utilized to enhance immersion, particularly during high-speed chases and combat scenarios. Load times are minimal, allowing for seamless transitions between different areas of the city.
The Precinct stands as a heartfelt tribute to classic cop narratives, offering players an atmospheric journey through a city rife with crime and intrigue. While certain aspects, such as mission variety and AI behavior, could benefit from further refinement, the game’s engaging pursuits and rich setting provide a solid foundation. For fans of open-world adventures and police procedurals, The Precinct presents a worthwhile, albeit imperfect, experience.
Score: 7.1/10
Press Play Media 