Review of Highway Police Simulator for PlayStation 5

Highway Police Simulator, crafted by Aerosoft and Z-Software, has arrived for PlayStation 5 enthusiasts. In this edge-of-your-seat review, we explore what this simulation game brings to the table.

Set in the vibrant city of Caminora, you’ll don the badge of a police officer navigating the intricacies of law enforcement. You can dive into this world through two distinct modes: Simulation or Casual. Initially, the game guides you through its paces in Casual Mode, giving you a feel for the mechanics. Should you decide to crank up the realism, Simulation Mode offers a more rugged experience, stripping away on-screen directions and explanations.

As you step into your role, crafting your character is your first endeavor. Select between a male or female officer, tailor their appearance from existing presets, and decide on attire spanning civil clothes, hair, and eye color. You can preview your uniformed look too. A pivotal choice in shaping your storyline lies in your character’s background—are you from a long line of officers or a street-savvy kid? Each origin carries unique perks and challenges: policing lineage affords camaraderie with colleagues, yet breeds tension with outlaws; a street background earns local respect but raises civilian suspicion.

Your initiation begins with investigating a scene post-intro. A seemingly straightforward car crash unfolds into a jailbreak scenario, demanding you gather evidence, interview witnesses, and compile an incident report. Equipped with your trusty police PC, uncover the layers of this conspiracy.

As you navigate the game, versatile controls enhance the experience. The left analog stick maneuvers your character, the right adjusts your viewpoint, and various buttons perform tasks—from interacting with objects to sprinting or handling your firearm. Driving mechanics mirror this complexity, blending intuitive steering with realistic vehicle operations such as activating sirens or braking sharply when needed. The drone and helicopter controls further expand these interactions, enhancing your strategic overview.

The game entices trophy hunters with a comprehensive list, including a coveted Platinum trophy. From completing story arcs to mastering citywide morality, walking miles, and unlocking vehicles, each achievement adds depth to your gameplay.

Despite its engaging premise, Highway Police Simulator faces hurdles. The game grapples with frequent bugs, like spontaneous object disappearances and bizarre car movements. While driving through the city, the surreal visuals, compounded by unpredictable lighting in the police station, hamper immersion. Characters also lack realism, detracting from the experience. Nonetheless, for those drawn to simulation-based challenges, Highway Police Simulator can offer a unique venture for $39.99 on PlayStation 5.

This review of Highway Police Simulator is based on a PlayStation 5 copy graciously provided by Aerosoft.