Fallen Tree Games returns with The Precinct, an ambitious top-down police simulator set in a crime-ridden place called Averno City. Published by Kwalee, The Precinct attempts to combine the procedural chaos of a sandbox game, the structure of police work, and the nostalgic presentation of early open-world classics like Grand Theft Auto 1 and 2.

On paper, that might sound like a lot for a relatively small-scale title, but in execution, The Precinct delivers a focused, highly replayable experience that feels like a breath of fresh air.
At the heart of The Precinct, you’re Officer Nick Cordell Jr., who has been assigned to respond to crimes around the city. The Precinct doesn’t follow a strict storyline. Yes, there is a main plot, but instead of sticking to only that, it drops you into a city that always feels like it’s on the edge of something.

One moment, you’re chasing a getaway car; the next, you’re breaking up a brawl or rushing to stop a robbery. Since most calls are procedurally generated, you never really know what your shift will throw at you, which keeps things fresh and spontaneous.

What makes the game stand out, though, is how it leans into proper police work. You’re not just there to shoot bad guys, you’re expected to follow protocol, de-escalate situations, and think like a real officer.

You’re encouraged (though not forced) to arrest suspects legally, follow steps like reading Miranda rights, collecting evidence, and waiting for transport. The game rewards thoughtful decision-making, but it also gives you tools for chaos if things go sideways, batons, tasers, firearms, roadblocks, and backup calls are all part of your toolkit.

The top-down perspective brings back memories of classic GTA, but in The Precinct, it does more than just nod to nostalgia; it adds to the gameplay. Seeing your surroundings from above gives you an edge in tense moments, whether spotting suspects slipping down side streets or setting up smart positions during car chases. It’s not just for looks; it’s functional.

Driving plays a big role, and thankfully, it feels great. There’s a nice balance between arcade-style responsiveness and just enough realism to keep things grounded. Pursuits are fast, chaotic, and often destructive. You’ll be weaving through tight alleys, ramming getaway cars, or blocking off streets as you try to gain the upper hand. And thanks to the destructible environments, those chases feel dynamic and unpredictable.

Averno City isn’t massive, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in detail and personality. It’s got that grimy, neon-soaked vibe you’d expect from a fictional metropolis, run-down neighbourhoods, shady back alleys, glowing signage, and the occasional flicker of a streetlight. It doesn’t go for photorealism, and it doesn’t need to. The stylized visuals work perfectly with the game’s tone and give the city a strong identity.

The city reacts to your presence. Civilians flee, suspects scatter or fight back, and the world evolves based on the time of day and crime density. There’s a constant sense of tension and unpredictability.

Audio plays a major role in building atmosphere. The soundtrack leans heavily into retro synth and suits the game perfectly. It helps lock in that gritty atmosphere without overdoing it. You’ll hear the hum of police radios, distant sirens, and other ambient sounds that make Averno City feel alive even when you’re just cruising the streets. Voice acting is minimal, but it works where it shows up, especially in radio chatter, which helps keep you plugged into what’s happening around town.

Visually, The Precinct manages to do a lot with a little. The top-down view doesn’t hold the game back at all, and the lighting, rain effects, and destructible scenery give the city a surprising amount of depth. It’s not aiming for realism, but the visuals hit the right tone. On Xbox Series X|S, the game holds up really well. There are no noticeable frame drops, smooth transitions, and everything just feels tight and responsive from start to finish.

The Precinct isn’t aiming to be the next blockbuster, and it knows that, but what it offers is tight, well-crafted, and genuinely fun. For fans of top-down games, it’s a title that deserves attention on the Xbox Series X|S.

Written by: Bradley Thorsen