On the crime-riddled streets, you’ll be representing Averno City's finest! It’s important you look the part. Here’s the inspiration for the iconic look of the Averno City Police Department.
https://store.steampowered.com/app/490110/The_Precinct/
In the initial stages of development of ‘The Precinct’, as shared in our first Development Diary, one of the foundational decisions we grappled with was choosing the geographical and cultural backdrop for our police force. This choice wasn't merely aesthetic; it was about setting a tone, an ambience that would resonate through the entire gameplay experience. After much deliberation, we were drawn to the rich history and iconic imagery of the East Coast, specifically selecting the New York Police Department (NYPD) as our muse for the game's ACPD in terms of organizational structure, visual identity, and uniform design.
Our journey into the heart of the NYPD's legacy was not about imitation but rather inspiration. We sought to capture the essence of what makes the NYPD universally recognizable—its distinctive uniforms, vehicles, and overall ethos—and infuse it into our game, thereby offering players an immediate sense of familiarity. This connection, we believed, would serve as a bridge, enhancing the immersive experience from the moment the game begins.
Diving deeper into the design specifics, we meticulously crafted the uniform of our game's patrol officers, drawing from the iconic elements of the 1980s NYPD uniform. This era, known for its definitive law enforcement style, offered a wealth of inspiration:
- Navy Blue Uniform: The classic ‘baby blue’ shirt paired with dark blue trousers was not only practical but symbolized authority and professionalism. This color scheme, synonymous with the NYPD, was adopted to evoke a sense of order and discipline. Note: We added a yellow ‘piping’ stripe to the trousers, to help the character stand out more at night.
- Patches and Badges: Embodying the spirit of the badge, our officers wear a patch on their shoulder showcasing the department's insignia, coupled with a metal badge and nameplate over the heart. These elements are more than mere decorations; they signify belonging, identity, and the solemn duty of the officers.
- Essential Gear: The duty belt, a vital component of the uniform, is outfitted with a carefully selected array of equipment. From the .38 Special revolver, a hallmark of reliability, to handcuffs, a radio, and a baton, each item was chosen for its authenticity and relevance to the period. These tools are not just props; they're integral to gameplay, opening up a range of interactions and strategies for players.
To further ground our game in the era's ambience, officers are equipped with polished black leather footwear and a signature 8-point police cap, adorned with a metal cap badge. These details are meticulously rendered to transport players back in time, immersing them in a gritty, neon-lit world of a 1980s metropolis, a setting that has captivated the imagination through countless cop dramas and action films.
Incorporating these historical and cultural references into ‘The Precinct’ was a deliberate choice to deepen the game's narrative and aesthetic appeal. By weaving in the authentic details of the NYPD's uniforms and equipment from the 1980s, we aim to not only pay homage to this iconic era of law enforcement but also to enrich the player's experience with a game world that feels both real and engaging. This dedication to historical accuracy and immersive storytelling is what we hope will set "The Precinct" apart, offering players not just a game, but a journey through time, filled with challenges, discoveries, and a deep, respectful connection to the past
We remain grateful to Kevin Cox, a retired NYPD veteran, for his invaluable guidance and consultation on this project.
Got a burning question that you want answered? Comment down below! Want to keep up-to-date with the latest police reports? Then don’t forget to wishlist The Precinct, join our Discord server, and follow us on social media at @theprecinctgame 🚨
