dailyloe.com – Mouse: P.I. For Hire is a new detective noir game set for release on April 16, 2026. It will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch 2. The game is developed by Fumi Games and published by PlaySide Studios. It is rated Teen.
The game features black-and-white rubber hose animation and a lively jazz soundtrack. It is set in the 1930s-inspired seedy city of Mouseburg. The city is populated by anthropomorphic mice. Players control a gumshoe detective named Jack Pepper.
Jack Pepper is voiced by actor Troy Baker. He unravels a complex missing persons case. The case involves crooked cops, slippery politicians, and charming socialites. It also features tenacious reporters.
The game’s writing is smart and humorous. Its enigmatic characters play into hardboiled fiction cliches. This approach kept the reviewer hooked for about a dozen hours. The story leads to a high-stakes finale.
Despite the detective premise, the game is a largely guided experience. Jack automatically places clues on a board in his office. Quests update with clear directions on where to go next. The game prioritizes stylish action over player-led sleuthing.
This design keeps players moving to new, visually distinct locations. Levels range from opera houses to swamps to production studios. Each location is overflowing with classic slapstick comedy. The game presents this as a sincere tribute to century-old cartoons.
It is a tribute to animations like Steamboat Willie. The game incorporates more adult themes throughout its story. The reviewer frequently chuckled at visual gags. One example is a spider wearing a derby hat.
The spider rubs a knife and fork together while eyeing its catch. Enemies killed with explosives have exaggerated death animations. They crumble into a pile of ash with eyeballs. The game’s exploration is enhanced by unlockable traversal abilities.
There are many secret areas containing money and collectibles. These areas also hold items or photographs for side quests. Side quests are received from the denizens of Mouseburg. Completing these optional requests is worthwhile.[]
Source: Game Informer
