The Precinct is set in the 1980s in the fictional city of Averno, where you step into the shoes of Nick Cordell, a rookie police officer on his very first day. From the start, you’re reminded that your father was the former chief of police, big shoes to fill.

The game immediately gives off a strong sense of nostalgia, especially if you enjoy classic top-down games. However, it doesn’t just rely on nostalgia, it elevates the formula. In fact, I honestly feel this game would be perfect for handheld gaming. It’s not bad on PC at all, but it feels like the kind of game you’d want to play lying in bed on a lazy afternoon. It’s casual, relaxing, and doesn’t demand constant try-hard focus… though there are moments where you’ll need to lock in.

For an indie title, this game offers a surprising amount of depth and immersion. You can take helicopter shifts, use tow trucks, and choose between different police vehicles. The developers clearly made this game with passion, and it shows. Visually, it’s one of the best-looking top-down games I’ve played. Some animations could use a little polish, but nothing that breaks the experience.

The controls feel great. Driving is smooth, responsive, and intuitive. which is refreshing because I’ve played plenty of games where clunky mechanics ruin the fun. That’s not the case here.

Car chases deserve a special mention. They’re genuinely fun, crashing through collapsible brick walls, smashing hotdog stands, and chasing criminals through the city never got old. One small wish I had was the ability to make some of the rare cars you discover your default patrol vehicle, but that’s more of a personal preference than a real complaint.

If you’re an achievement hunter, this game is a dream. You can 100% it in around 20–30 hours, with no missable or grind heavy achievements. Everything felt fair and well-paced, making the completion process genuinely enjoyable.

I went into this game with low expectations, and it completely exceeded them. For the price, it’s absolutely a must buy. The story is on the shorter side, but that actually works in its favor. it doesn’t drag or overstay its welcome, and the narrative itself is solid and engaging throughout.

Overall, The Precinct is a well-crafted, immersive indie game made with love. If you enjoy top-down games, police themes, or just want a relaxed yet engaging experience, this one is absolutely worth your time.