GTA 6 can wait, this free open-world download is blowing up on Steam right now

Grand Theft Auto players will be used to committing crimes - in the game, of course.

However, a new Steam hit places you on the opposite side of the law.

What if you took a Grand Theft Auto-style formula and flipped it so that it’s your job to take down the crooks and criminals?

Well, you’d end up with The Precinct.

Developed by Fallen Tree Games and set to be published by Kwalee, The Precinct is an upcoming open-world sandbox game that refers to itself as a love letter to classic cop movies.

“Averno City, 1983. Gangs rule the streets and your father lies restless in his grave. Clean up the city, uncover the truth, and embark on thrilling vehicle chases through destructible environments in this neon-noir action sandbox police game,” the synopsis teases.

Take a look at The Precinct in action below.

Players assume the role of officer Nick Cordell Jr, a rookie beat cop who’s fresh out of the academy.

You’ll explore the city on foot, via squad car, and in a helicopter as you respond to everything from parking violations to gang shootouts.

There’s a day and night cycle, gangs to infiltrate, and you can choose whether to respond to a call alone or request back-up.

The Precinct remains without a launch date but is set to release in the remainder of this year.

In the meantime, a new demo has landed as a part of Steam Next Fest - and it’s proving to be one of the most popular inclusions, floating atop the event’s trending demos chart.

In addition to checking out the free demo, you can also currently enter a free giveaway running throughout Next Fest.

To celebrate the demo’s launch, five giveaway winners will be awarded an ACPD police badge as well as a free copy of The Precinct upon launch on a platform of their choosing.

The Precinct’s demo is currently only available on Steam but the game will also be launching on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.

It definitely sounds like it's one worth giving a go.