We may have a long wait until we get our hands on Grand Theft Auto 6, but series fans who miss its old-school style may want to pay attention to The Precinct. The police-focused sandbox game is getting a playable demo next week as part of Steam Next Fest.
In The Precinct, you play a rookie cop hitting the mean streets of Averno City in a neo-noir-inspired 1980s America. Granted, the premise may not immediately remind you of GTA. The Precinct places you in the shoes of a crime fighter instead of someone who actually does the crimes. Regardless, it could check quite a few boxes for those who love the pre-GTA 3 era of the franchise.
Grimy streets, neon lights, and randomized crime are in full view of an isometric camera that gives you an overhead angle on the game’s world. As Nick Cordell Jr., you take to the streets for high-speed car chases and chaotic shootouts. You can drive multiple vehicles in The Precinct, such as a cruiser and a police chopper. That’s not bad for a fresh-faced rookie.
The Precinct puts you on the case in its Steam Next Fest demo
The Precinct isn’t all about shootouts, mind. It also includes some sleuthing work with evidence-gathering and investigating gang activity. You’ll keep busy with the randomly generated crimes, which cover busting down crooks and handing out tickets.
The game looks intriguing and could be a good way to enjoy classic GTA vibes while we wait for the next installment. I mean, we have to do something over the next year or two (if we’re lucky).
The Precinct will be playable in demo form next week when Steam Next Fest arrives on October 14, 2024. There’s no official release date for the game yet, but the developer is planning to launch it before the end of the year.
