10 Best Beginner Tips for The Precinct – Rookie Cop Guide

Welcome to Averno City, rookie. Whether you're just clocking in for your first patrol or already knee-deep in chaos, The Precinct doesn’t pull its punches. This gritty neon-noir police sandbox from Fallen Tree Games blends 1980s-inspired action with open-world chaos, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve put together this beginner-friendly guide packed with 10 essential tips to help you survive the streets and build your reputation.

Let’s hit the beat.


1. Prioritize Health and Stamina Upgrades First

Early on, you’ll be tempted by flashy vehicle or combat perks, but your survival depends on endurance. Boost your health and stamina first to ensure you can outlast long chases and survive shootouts. Timed Breath (for stamina regen) is especially helpful for foot pursuits.


2. Learn the Officer Handbook (But Don’t Sweat It)

The Officer Handbook is filled with procedural details and arrest protocols, but don’t feel pressured to memorize it all. It’s there as a quick reference when you need it. As you gain experience, you'll internalize the steps naturally.


3. Always Respond to Dynamic Events

Crimes can break out at any time, even if you're not on a call. Be alert and ready to intervene – breaking up fights, responding to robberies, or tailing suspicious vehicles can net you XP and build your standing with the precinct.


Best Beginner Tips for The Precinct
4. Abandon Vehicles When Needed

It might feel counterintuitive, but sometimes ditching your cruiser is the smart play. If your vehicle is damaged or stuck, exit and continue the chase on foot. Later on, you can unlock the ability to commandeer civilian cars.


5. Hold Off on Vehicle Upgrades

Your standard cruiser gets the job done early on. Instead of spending early XP on speed boosts or armor, invest in personal upgrades like sprint efficiency, reload speed, and larger inventory capacity. Your body is your most reliable tool.


6. Use Support Tokens Wisely

Support tokens allow you to call in backup, roadblocks, or tactical units. These are limited resources, so don’t blow them on low-risk calls. Save them for gang shootouts, armored van chases, or major assaults.


7. Extend Your Patrol Shifts

Once your shift ends, you can continue patrolling. Doing so opens up extra XP opportunities and more crime events. Just be careful – crime rates may spike during certain times of day, especially at night.


8. Investigate Suspicious Activity for Bonus XP

Sometimes the most valuable leads aren’t marked on your map. Citizens acting oddly, cars parked in strange places, or sounds of gunfire may lead to unmarked crime scenes or stashes. Stay observant.


9. Collect Evidence at Crime Scenes

Completing cases and progressing the main story often relies on collecting proper evidence. Don’t just cuff suspects – inspect the scene, take notes, and submit reports when needed.


10. Patrol Crime Hotspots for Reputation and XP

Some districts in Averno City are more volatile than others. High-crime areas generate more dynamic events and opportunities to level up quickly. If you’re ready for a challenge, make these districts your regular beat.


Final Thoughts

The Precinct offers a rich and reactive sandbox for those who enjoy law enforcement sims with an arcade edge. It rewards alertness, preparedness, and a little bit of daring. Follow these tips, and you’ll be booking perps and climbing the ranks in no time.

Stay safe out there, Officer.


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