Police Quest: In Pursuit of the Death Angel

Police Quest: In Pursuit of the Death Angel, released in 1987 by Sierra On-Line, is a realistic police adventure that blends narrative-driven gameplay with authentic law enforcement procedures. Players take on the role of Sonny Bonds, a patrol officer in the fictional city of Lytton, who becomes entangled in a dangerous investigation involving drugs, organized crime, and a notorious criminal known as the Death Angel.

The game uses Sierra’s classic text-parser interface, requiring players to type commands to interact with the environment. Unlike more fantastical adventures of the time, Police Quest focuses on real-world police work—conducting traffic stops, collecting evidence, and following proper protocol. Success depends on attention to detail and adherence to correct procedures, making it both challenging and educational.

Praised for its grounded storytelling and commitment to authenticity, Police Quest set itself apart from other adventure games of the era. Created with input from former police officer Jim Walls, it offered players a unique blend of crime drama and interactive training, laying the foundation for a long-running and influential series.