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Mouse: P.I. For Hire is no longer an upcoming game: its digital release was April 16, 2026. This post-launch preview explains what the noir-inspired shooter is, where it’s available, and what its physical editions include.
What is Mouse: P.I. For Hire?
Developed by Fumi Games and published by PlaySide Studios, Mouse: P.I. For Hire is a single-player first-person shooter starring private investigator Jack Pepper. Its central hook is a collision of hand-drawn black-and-white rubber-hose animation, 1930s cartoon influences, a noir detective story and fast-paced gunfights.
Players explore Mouseburg and investigate corruption while using weapons, equipment and consumable power-ups. Xbox’s official feature listing describes more than 20 noir-infused levels, over ten weapons and equipment options, and unlockable movement abilities that support Metroidvania-inspired traversal. An original big-band jazz score accompanies the action. Those are the game’s advertised features, not a substitute for a hands-on assessment of how the combat or exploration feels.
The official description captures the art approach: “Its black and white rubber hose visuals are drawn by hand, frame by frame, delivering a striking vintage aesthetic.”
#1 Best Overall
- DEADLY INVESTIGATIONS: Meet Private Investigator Jack Pepper, a former war hero-turned-detective in a world where danger lurks even in the smallest mouse hole. Uncover the truth when a simple missing persons case quickly escalates into a complex web of intrigue, with corruption, kidnapping and murder all on the docket. Investigate the seedy underbelly of Mouseburg, battle heavily armed gangs and crooked cops, and discover clues to reveal the conspiracy buried underneath the surface.
- LOCK, LOAD & LAUGH: From crackling machine guns to explosive firepower, each weapon in Pepper’s arsenal is designed to deploy non-stop cartoon chaos. Arm yourself with an array of classic, creatively twisted and experimental firearms, and consume powerful upgrades when you need that extra spinach-loaded punch! Lethal encounters and manic boss battles await in this boomer shooter-inspired, retro-vibed adventure - and the denizens of Mouseburg never go down without a fight.
- A CITY OF SECRETS: Explore a diverse city playground, from dark streets to classic film studios, opulent opera buildings, poisonous swamps and underground sewers. With a myriad of cases to solve and collectibles to find, Mouseburg is truly a detective’s delight! Use every tool at your disposal to wall-run, grapple-hook and double-jump through this unrelenting cartoon world.
Is Mouse: P.I. For Hire out yet?
Yes. The digital version launched on April 16, 2026. Officially listed platforms are PC via Steam, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2. The official FAQ said PS4, Xbox One and the original Nintendo Switch were not included in the April 16 release, with details on previous-generation releases to follow. Do not assume those versions are available without checking the latest official platform information.
How can you play it?
- PC: Mouse and keyboard or controller are supported. The FAQ says controls can be remapped and identifies full Steam support for DualSense and Xbox Wireless Controllers.
- Switch 2: The FAQ says the game supports mouse controls on the system.
These are compatibility details; they do not establish which input method is more responsive or enjoyable.
Rank #2
- DEADLY INVESTIGATIONS: Meet Private Investigator Jack Pepper, a former war hero-turned-detective in a world where danger lurks even in the smallest mouse hole. Uncover the truth when a simple missing persons case quickly escalates into a complex web of intrigue, with corruption, kidnapping and murder all on the docket. Investigate the seedy underbelly of Mouseburg, battle heavily armed gangs and crooked cops, and discover clues to reveal the conspiracy buried underneath the surface.
- LOCK, LOAD & LAUGH: From crackling machine guns to explosive firepower, each weapon in Pepper’s arsenal is designed to deploy non-stop cartoon chaos. Arm yourself with an array of classic, creatively twisted and experimental firearms, and consume powerful upgrades when you need that extra spinach-loaded punch! Lethal encounters and manic boss battles await in this boomer shooter-inspired, retro-vibed adventure - and the denizens of Mouseburg never go down without a fight.
- A CITY OF SECRETS: Explore a diverse city playground, from dark streets to classic film studios, opulent opera buildings, poisonous swamps and underground sewers. With a myriad of cases to solve and collectibles to find, Mouseburg is truly a detective’s delight! Use every tool at your disposal to wall-run, grapple-hook and double-jump through this unrelenting cartoon world.
Which physical edition should you choose?
The official FAQ lists physical availability beginning July 10, 2026. The table gives the FAQ’s stated US prices and formats; these are not guarantees of current retailer prices, regional availability or stock.
| Edition | Platform and format | Stated US price | What’s included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Standard | PS5 disc | US$29.99 | Base game |
| Physical Standard | Switch 2 game-on cartridge | US$39.99 | Base game |
| Mouseburg Edition | PC Steam code in a box | US$49.99 | Base game and collector items |
| Mouseburg Edition | PS5 disc | US$49.99 | Base game and collector items |
| Mouseburg Edition | Xbox Series X disc | US$49.99 | Base game and collector items |
| Mouseburg Edition | Switch 2 cartridge | US$59.99 | Base game and collector items |
Mouseburg Edition adds a 7-inch vinyl with four soundtrack tracks, a double-sided map and pistol-schematic poster, a printed comic with two sticker sheets, 33 baseball trading cards and three postcards. It does not include access to the story DLC. The PC edition is a boxed Steam code rather than a disc; consider that distinction when comparing formats.
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- Black and white, hand-drawn rubber hose animation, inspired by cartoons of the 1930s
- Fast-paced FPS combat, where constant movement is key
- A thrilling single-player campaign that unravels a complex web of crime and corruption
- Over 20 noir-infused levels, teeming with mice, rats and shrews
- Fully loaded arsenal of over a dozen unique weapons and equipment - with a cartoon twist
What soundtrack editions are available?
Patryk Scelina composed the game’s soundtrack. The official FAQ also identifies “Good Mouse,” a contribution from Parisian group Caravan Palace. A Mondo partnership release offers a black-and-white splatter vinyl with 18 original game tracks plus “Good Mouse,” packaged with custom artwork. That is distinct from the Mouseburg Edition’s 7-inch sampler, which contains four soundtrack tracks. Check the seller’s current listing and availability before buying either format.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What do the early interest and Steam ratings tell you?
PlaySide Studios reported more than 1.5 million wishlists across platforms in a 2026 pre-launch investor update, exceeding its prior management guidance of 1.4 million. The same update said wishlists grew 60% week-on-week for the week ending April 7. Those are pre-launch marketing figures, not sales or player counts.
Rank #4
- A MYSTERY MEMORY GAME: Join Inspector Mouse in a fun, cooperative memory game where players listen closely to catch sneaky crooks before they escape! Great mystery games for 5 year olds and older.
- HOW TO PLAY: Roll the die, place crooks in jail & remember their order. When the alarm rings, players must guess who is escaping! Play competitively or cooperatively for endless detective games fun.
- DEVELOPS MEMORY & LISTENING SKILLS: One of the best learning games to help improve focus, recall, and strategic thinking while offering an exciting detective-themed adventure for ages 5 and up.
- PERFECT FOR FAMILY & PARTY GAMES – Whether playing solo, with friends, or as cooperative board games for fun family games, Inspector Mouse is ideal for game nights, parties, and classrooms.
- INGENIOUS DESIGN, NO BATTERIES NEEDED: Featuring whimsical illustrations and a clever hidden alarm system, HABA family board games spark imagination with high-quality sustainably made components.
Steam showed a 93% Very Positive rating from 9,280 English-language reviews and a 90% Very Positive rating from 371 recent reviews when accessed October 8, 2026. These are dated storefront snapshots; review totals and ratings can change.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- IDEAL COLLECTIBLE SIZE - At approximately 3.75 inches (9.5 cm) tall, this vinyl mini figurine complements other collectable merchandise and fits perfectly in your display case or on your desk.
- PREMIUM VINYL MATERIAL - Made from high-quality, durable vinyl, this collectible is built to last and withstand daily wear, ensuring long-lasting enjoyment for fans and collectors alike.
- PERFECT GIFT FOR 0 FANS - Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions and as a present this figurine is a must-have addition to any 0 merchandise collection
- EXPAND YOUR COLLECTION - Add this unique Jack Pepper vinyl display piece to your growing assortment of Funko Pop! figures, and seek out other rare and exclusive collectible items for a complete set
- LEADING POP CULTURE BRAND - Trust in the expertise of Funko, the premier creator of pop culture merchandise that includes vinyl figures, action toys, plush, apparel, board games, and more.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
