The Precinct: Update that Ditches the Partner

Released on May 13th, The Precinct didn’t initially receive favorable reviews, but it gradually established itself as a video game oddity, an urban sandbox with a retro-futuristic look, blending police chases and neon-black aesthetics. This week, the game is getting a new update, adding more than just additional content; it signals a desire to revisit its proposal and correct what didn’t work at launch, with the primary addition being Solo Mode. Presented as a mode where agent Nick Cordell Jr. patrols without a partner, it might initially seem like an inconsequential variation, but in reality, it’s a disguised correction of a structural flaw: the AI ally system, deemed unhelpful or obstructive by some players during intervention phases. By focusing the experience on the lone player facing Averno’s criminality, the studio aims to return to a more controlled and fluid form of immersion.

This update also includes vehicle and protagonist customization. The six patrol cars now benefit from five new liveries each, while the playable avatar can don ten outfits, eight hats, and four types of glasses. The update will be available later this week and during the Steam Summer Sale starting June 26th. By redirecting gameplay around the player and adding identity projection tools, this update demonstrates that the studio listens, adjusts, and cautiously advances. The lone player finally becomes the sole engine of their narrative, strengthening the sense of embodiment. This focus on what works: the free-roam patrol experience, observing urban rhythms, and improvising interventions, returns us to a more controlled and fluid form of immersion. The Precinct integrates the Steam Summer Sale starting June 26th and benefits from a promotion on the PlayStation Store until July 2nd.

For those who are curious about the initial reception of The Precinct when it first launched, be sure to check out Carlos Mendoza’s insightful piece titled “The Precinct: Test Results Are In, It’s a Bit of a Lets-Down,” published on May 13th. While the game offered a unique retro-futuristic twist with its urban sandbox setting and police-themed gameplay mechanics, it faced criticism for technical issues and lackluster story elements. Carlos delves into both the promising aspects and the shortcomings that reviewers highlighted upon release. Dive deeper into this analysis The Precinct: Test Results Are In, It’s a Bit of a Lets-Down. If you’re a fan of retro-futuristic urban settings and immersive gameplay, don’t miss Sophie Laurent’s latest piece on RoboCop Rogue City, published just last week. This fast-paced 60-second rundown (with a dash of humor) breaks down the essential elements of this highly anticipated game set in the gritty world of Old Detroit. From classic weaponry to dynamic character interactions and an original storyline bridging beloved films, RoboCop Rogue City promises to deliver a blend of action-packed FPS gameplay and engaging narrative twists. Dive into the full article for all the details and chuckles at Robocop Rogue City: What to Know About the Game in 60 Seconds, with Humor. For those eagerly awaiting a tangible connection with The Precinct, be sure to check out our latest article “The Precinct: It’s Microids Releasing the Game’s Physical Versions” by Marcus Thompson (published on October 16th). This piece delves into Microids’ partnership with Fallen Tree Games Limited and Kwalee to bring a physical version of The Precinct to shelves, offering fans around the globe an unparalleled gaming experience. As Stéphane Longeard from Microids and Ben Forrester from Kwalee affirm, this collaboration marks their dedication to delivering high-quality titles that resonate with diverse audiences. Don’t miss out on all the details at The Precinct: It’s Microids Releasing the Game’s Physical Versions.