Contraband Police is a unique border guard simulation game set in a fictional communist country during the 1980s. As a young officer, you are tasked with stopping smugglers, inspecting documents, and uncovering criminal networks. Blending strategy, simulation, and action, the game has gained attention for its tense gameplay and immersive setting.
Contraband Police Review – Border Guard Simulator of Smugglers and Survival
Introduction
Contraband Police is a first-person simulation game developed by Crazy Rocks and published by PlayWay S.A. Released on Steam, it puts players in the shoes of a border inspector at a remote outpost. The core of the game revolves around spotting forged documents, hidden contraband, and catching criminals while managing limited resources. With its realistic mechanics and gritty 1980s communist atmosphere, the game appeals to fans of simulation, strategy, and narrative-driven experiences.
Gameplay and Storyline
Players begin as a rookie officer assigned to a border checkpoint. Every day, cars and trucks line up at the border, and it’s your job to:
-
Inspect passports, cargo manifests, and identity papers.
-
Use detection tools to uncover hidden drugs, weapons, and contraband.
-
Make split-second decisions to allow or deny entry.
-
Engage in action sequences against armed smugglers.
The storyline unfolds through missions that combine routine inspections with criminal investigations, raids, and political intrigue. The setting reflects the harsh conditions of a communist state, where corruption, poverty, and rebellion shape the world around you.
Key Features
-
Realistic border inspection mechanics – Spot forged documents, expired IDs, and mismatched cargo lists.
-
Contraband detection – Use UV lamps, metal detectors, and crowbars to uncover hidden goods.
-
Dynamic missions – From simple vehicle checks to intense shootouts with gangs.
-
Progression system – Earn money, upgrade your equipment, and expand your post.
-
Immersive world – Inspired by Eastern Europe in the 1980s, filled with corruption, political unrest, and survival challenges.
Pros and Cons
Pros
-
Engaging mix of simulation and action gameplay.
-
Strong atmosphere with detailed environments.
-
Challenging mechanics that reward attention to detail.
-
Story-driven missions that prevent repetitive gameplay.
-
High replayability due to random smuggling tactics.
Cons
-
Learning curve can feel overwhelming at first.
-
Some repetitive tasks in long play sessions.
-
Requires patience, not ideal for players seeking fast-paced gameplay.
Comparison with Other Games
Contraband Police is often compared to Papers, Please, another border control simulation. While both share the theme of document inspection, Contraband Police takes it further by adding 3D environments, first-person action, and direct combat against smugglers. Unlike Papers, Please’s minimalist approach, Contraband Police blends simulation with survival elements, creating a more cinematic experience.
It also shares similarities with Border Officer and This Is the Police, but stands out thanks to its detailed contraband detection system and immersive communist-era setting.
User Reviews and Community Feedback
Players praise the game’s immersive mechanics and the thrill of catching smugglers. Many highlight the balance between strategy and action, as well as the authentic atmosphere of the setting. Criticism often focuses on repetitive document-checking tasks and the steep learning curve, but overall ratings are positive, making it one of the most popular indie simulators of its genre.
Tips for New Players
-
Pay attention to small details in documents – mismatched names, photos, or expiration dates often signal smugglers.
-
Upgrade inspection tools early to speed up the process.
-
Manage your resources wisely – ammo, fuel, and money are limited.
-
Expect ambushes and prepare for combat when denying dangerous suspects.
-
Explore side missions to unlock rewards and deepen the storyline.
Conclusion
Contraband Police is a distinctive simulator that blends document inspection with survival and action in a communist-era setting. It challenges players to think critically, remain vigilant, and adapt to unpredictable scenarios. For fans of Papers, Please, simulation games, or narrative-driven experiences, Contraband Police is one of the most engaging titles to try.
User Reviews
