Step Into a Living Cartoon and Solve a Gritty Mystery
In a world of hyper-realistic graphics, one upcoming game is making a bold statement by turning back the clock. Way back. ‘MOUSE: P.I. For Hire,’ the stunningly original first-person shooter from indie developer Fumi Games, has finally solved its biggest mystery: a release date. Revealed during the Galaxies Gaming Showcase, this noir-fueled adventure, set in a world inspired by 1930s rubber hose animation, is officially launching on March 19, 2026.
First revealed in 2023, the game’s unique hand-drawn aesthetic immediately captured the attention of gamers everywhere. It looks like a classic ‘Steamboat Willie’ cartoon brought to life as a gritty, fast-paced shooter. Now, with a firm release date and the reveal of its star-studded lead, the hype is reaching a fever pitch.
Meet Jack Pepper, P.I. (Voiced by a Legend)
In ‘MOUSE: P.I. For Hire,’ you’ll step into the shoes of Jack Pepper, a private investigator in the corrupt city of Mouseburg. What starts as a simple missing persons case quickly spirals into a dark conspiracy of murder and corruption. And who is bringing this hard-boiled hero to life? None other than the legendary voice actor Troy Baker, known for his iconic roles in ‘The Last of Us’ and ‘BioShock Infinite.’ His involvement adds a huge layer of prestige and promises a compelling performance at the heart of the game’s noir narrative.
The world of Mouseburg is a character in itself. From gritty city streets and seedy casinos to underground sewers and sprawling film studios, players will explore a diverse and dangerous city, all rendered in a beautiful, hand-drawn monochromatic style. It’s a world where danger lurks in every mouse hole, and you’re the only one who can untangle its web of secrets.
Classic Cartoons Meet Modern Mayhem
While the game’s look is vintage, its gameplay is anything but. ‘MOUSE: P.I. For Hire’ is a fast-paced FPS that draws inspiration from classics like ‘Doom,’ but with a playful, cartoonish twist. You’ll wield an arsenal of over a dozen “experimental weapons,” ranging from classic tommy guns to more outlandish options like a freeze gun, a toxic turpentine gun that dissolves enemies, and even a ray gun capable of mind control.
The cartoon influence extends to the power-ups. Chow down on a can of ‘Spike-D Spinach’ (a clear nod to Popeye) to boost your melee damage, or use a grappling hook attached to your mouse tail to swing across platforms. The developers have promised 20 levels of non-linear action, filled with collectibles, mini-games, and epic boss battles. It’s a perfect blend of old-school aesthetics and modern shooter design.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Title | MOUSE: P.I. For Hire |
| Developer | Fumi Games |
| Publisher | PlaySide Publishing |
| Release Date | March 19, 2026 |
| Platforms | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2 |
| Protagonist Voice | Troy Baker as Jack Pepper |
| Key Features | Hand-drawn 1930s cartoon art style, noir detective story, fast-paced FPS action, experimental weapons, and power-ups. |
A True Labor of Love
What makes ‘MOUSE: P.I. For Hire’ so special is its commitment to its aesthetic. The entire game is animated by hand, frame by frame, to perfectly replicate the rubber hose style of the 1930s. This is paired with an original big band jazz soundtrack that will transport players straight into the smoky, noir atmosphere. In a world of procedurally generated content, this level of hand-crafted detail is a rare and exciting thing.
Initially slated for a 2025 release, the short delay to early 2026 seems like a small price to pay for a game this unique and ambitious. Fumi Games is creating something truly special, and we can’t wait to dive into the black-and-white world of Mouseburg.
Conclusion
‘MOUSE: P.I. For Hire’ is a shining example of indie creativity. It’s a game with a strong, singular vision that perfectly blends a beloved art style with modern, action-packed gameplay. With Troy Baker lending his incredible talent to the lead role and a firm release date to look forward to, this gritty, cartoon shooter has all the makings of a future classic. Get ready to crack the case on March 19, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MOUSE: P.I. For Hire?
‘MOUSE: P.I. For Hire’ is a first-person shooter with a unique, hand-drawn art style inspired by 1930s cartoons. It combines fast-paced FPS gameplay with a gritty noir detective story.
When does the game release?
The official release date is March 19, 2026.
What platforms will it be on?
The game will be available on a wide range of platforms, including PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2.
Who plays the main character?
The protagonist, private investigator Jack Pepper, is voiced by the award-winning actor Troy Baker.
What kind of weapons are in the game?
The game features over a dozen creative weapons, from traditional tommy guns to more experimental options like a freeze gun, a turpentine gun that dissolves enemies, and a mind-control ray.
Is the game multiplayer?
No, ‘MOUSE: P.I. For Hire’ is a single-player, story-driven experience.