A Retro Cop Drama That Shoots for the Stars but Misses a Few Targets
Developer: Fallen Tree Games
Publishers: Kwalee, Microids
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S (Reviewed), PC
Release Date: May 13, 2025
Price: $39.99 USD
Overview
In most video games, you’re either dodging the police or taking them down. But The Precinct, by Fallen Tree Games, flips that dynamic by placing you in the shoes of the law itself. Known for American Fugitive, the developers now attempt to balance arcade action with police simulation in a gritty 1980s setting. Does this cop drama serve justice, or does it get lost in the paperwork?
Story: Classic ‘80s Cop Movie Vibes
You play as rookie officer Nick Cordell Jr., fresh out of the academy and dropped into the crime-ridden streets of Averno City. With his legendary father’s shadow looming large—once the police chief, now mysteriously murdered—Cordell teams up with his aging training officer, Kelly, who prefers the passenger seat thanks to a bad hip. 
While the setup feels straight out of a nostalgic action flick, the story quickly loses momentum. Outside of a few moments—such as gathering evidence or chasing gang leaders—the narrative takes a backseat. Dialogue is minimal, interactions with colleagues are rare, and much of the story progression relies on hitting evidence quotas.
The game does spice things up with Easter eggs and references to classic ‘80s action and sci-fi films, but missed opportunities in character development and banter make the city feel a little too quiet.
Gameplay: A Blend of Arcade Action and Police Simulation
The Precinct excels in creating a dynamic patrol experience. From foot patrols to helicopter surveillance, each shift brings its own chaos. Thanks to AI-generated events, no two patrols feel exactly the same. A quiet traffic stop can turn into a high-speed chase or a shootout in seconds.
Shift System and Patrols
Players can choose different shift types—foot, vehicle, or helicopter patrols—and eventually customize their patrols with increased gang or drug activity. The isometric camera keeps gameplay tight and focused, even during hectic car chases or city-wide pursuits.
However, there’s little consequence for stepping outside your assigned patrol area. Crime is dynamically generated across the city, so players are encouraged to explore freely.
Pursuits, Combat & Arrests
Combat is straightforward, using twin-stick aiming mechanics. Players are equipped with tasers, batons, and a variety of firearms. A “back-up meter” fills as you pursue suspects, allowing you to call in reinforcements, helicopters, or set roadblocks.
Apprehending suspects is where things get more interesting. You can frisk, interrogate, and assign specific charges, which rewards or penalizes your XP based on accuracy. This system adds a satisfying layer of depth to otherwise arcade-style gameplay.
Unfortunately, the driving mechanics are rough. Vehicles feel floaty and are prone to bugs, particularly in the “undercover” racing segments. Frequent crashes—both vehicular and technical—can wipe progress and lead to frustration.
XP and Unlockables
While there’s no real RPG leveling system, XP is used to unlock new vehicles, weapons, and abilities like calling in spike strips or gaining more stamina. Most upgrades are optional, with only a few providing meaningful advantages. Hidden collectibles, like historical plaques and stolen artifacts, add a bit of exploration incentive.
Visuals & Audio: Neon Nights and Synth Beats
Visually, The Precinct shines brightest at night. Neon reflections, destructible environments, and varied character models bring Averno City to life. The isometric view works well, especially during car chases and foot pursuits.
Voice acting is serviceable, though inconsistent at times. The synth-heavy soundtrack matches the ’80s theme perfectly, but a lack of era-specific rock tracks feels like a missed opportunity.
Final Verdict
The Precinct is an ambitious attempt to merge retro police drama with interactive gameplay. It succeeds in some areas—especially in atmosphere and patrol mechanics—but falls short due to its underdeveloped story, clunky driving, and technical issues. With a bit more polish and narrative depth, it could’ve been a standout title in a rarely explored genre.
If you’re a fan of classic cop flicks and can forgive a few bugs, The Precinct might be worth a shift or two.
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