The Precinct Review
The Precinct
Publisher: Kwalee Ltd
Developer: Kwalee Ltd
Genre:
PEGI: 16
Comments:
The Precinct challenges the norm in a gaming world where players are playing as criminals, but it’s not an exception. It has its own unique twist. In Averno City, 1983, a game with neon lights and crime-filled streets, you must wear the badge instead of avoiding it. In the movie, you follow Nick Cordell Jr, the son of a well-regarded police officer, as he endeavors to gain recognition while solving the mystery surrounding his father’s demise.
The Precinct combines procedural police work with sandbox freedom. Each shift begins with a decision: whether to issue parking tickets while on patrol, communicate with the police about ongoing crimes, or covertly infiltrate gangs. The game features an isometric perspective and retro aesthetic that imitates the style of Grand Theft Auto titles, but with a lawful approach.
A key feature of the game is its daily shift structure, where players gain exposure to the sport through their procedures, including checking IDs and writing accurate reports while collecting evidence. These mundane tasks are surprisingly captivating, particularly when they form part of larger investigations against Averno’s criminal organization.
The gameplay loop can become repetitive. The variety in crimes, such as shootouts and vandalism, adds spice to the situation. The targeting system in the shootouts is cumbersome, causing action sequences to feel less exciting than enjoyable.
It’s a straightforward, but effective story. Your role as Nick involves gathering evidence on two major gangs, which unlock story missions that will help you build your case. The game’s procedural elements are complemented by a compelling and varied plot, which includes narrated stories about homicides in the past. While Kelly, a resilient veteran approaching retirement, adds emotional depth to the narrative, his presence fluctuates. Why is this so? Despite its modern crime sims, the game’s 1980s setting and noir-inspired atmosphere give it a distinct character.
Graphics is more important in The Precinct than its technology. Why? A clean and practical isometric view, while the city of Averno is infused with a vibrant palette of purples, blues and reds and other shades inspired by neo-noir literature. Its 80s synth-influenced sound perfectly suited for the soundtrack aesthetic.
Nick and Kelly deliver convincing performances in their voice acting. The use of environmental audio, such as sirens, radio chatter, and ambient city noise, allows players to become a beat cop. This is an enjoyable and entertaining experience.
With its emphasis on a natural procedural element, the Precinct offers realism and excitement that are not typically found in games. While it may not always be effective in combat or pacing, it can still provide a distinctive and compelling experience for those who prioritize complying with the law rather than defying it.
If you enjoy crime shows, retro styles, or something different from the usual sandbox experience, The Precinct is worth a visit.
Trailer
Article By Kevin Austin
Kevin Austin has been in gaming journalism in one way or another since the launch of the Nintendo Gamecube. Married and father of 3 children he has been gaming since the ripe age of 6 when he got his first NES system and over 30 years later he is still gaming almost daily. Kevin is also co-founder of the Play Some Video Games (PSVG) Podcast network which was founded over five years ago and is still going strong. Some of his favorite gaming series includes Fallout and Far Cry, he is a sucker for single player adventure games (hence his big reviews for Playstation), and can frequently be found getting down in one battle royale or another. If it's an oddball game, odds are he's all about it.
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