MOUSE: P.I. For Hire launched on April 16, 2026. PlaySide moved its release from March 19 to April 16 to allow more polish and better meet players’ expectations. The game is already out on PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 2.
When did MOUSE: P.I. For Hire come out?
The confirmed release date was April 16, 2026. PlaySide announced the launch on that date, and the Steam store lists April 16 as the release date. So if you’re asking when MOUSE: P.I. For Hire comes out, it has already launched.
Why was MOUSE: P.I. For Hire delayed?
PlaySide’s February 24, 2026 investor release changed the planned date from March 19 to April 16, saying the extra time would allow further polish. CEO Ben Skender explained the move: “We are slightly shifting the release date for MOUSE to April 16 to ensure the title fully meets the expectations of our players.”
In that same February investor release, PlaySide reported 1.2 million wishlists, up 20%, and said the game was the 18th most wishlisted title on Steam. Those are company-reported figures from February 24, 2026, not current wishlist or ranking figures.
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- 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 platforms is the game on?
At its April 16 digital launch, PlaySide listed PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 2. PlaySide also says Xbox Play Anywhere lets players access the game across the Xbox ecosystem on PC and Xbox Series X|S at no additional cost.
The publisher’s FAQ describes the game as Steam Deck compatible, with mouse-and-keyboard and controller support. It also says the Nintendo Switch 2 version supports mouse controls. Service availability and compatibility details can change, so check the relevant platform store or PlaySide’s current information for the latest status.
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.
Are physical editions available?
PlaySide announced physical editions for July 10, 2026. The announced lineup included Standard Editions for PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2, plus a Mouseburg Edition for PC (a Steam code in a box), PS5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch 2. The prices below are those announced by PlaySide; they are not verified current prices, and stock and availability may vary by retailer and region.
| Edition | Platform | Announced price |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Edition | PS5 | USD $29.99 |
| Standard Edition | Nintendo Switch 2 | USD $39.99 |
| Mouseburg Edition | PC (Steam code in a box), PS5, Xbox Series X | USD $49.99 |
| Mouseburg Edition | Nintendo Switch 2 | USD $59.99 |
The Mouseburg Edition bundles the base game with a seven-inch soundtrack vinyl, a double-sided poster, a printed comic with sticker sheets, 33 trading cards, and three postcards. PlaySide’s FAQ says the physical Mouseburg Edition does not include access to the DLC expansion. The publisher also notes regional restrictions for the collector edition. Check the retailer listing for your region to confirm what is available and included.
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Rank #3
- 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
Is it coming to PS4, Xbox One, or the original Nintendo Switch?
PlaySide’s FAQ said those older platforms were not launching alongside the current-generation versions on April 16, 2026, and that details about any later release would be revealed in the future. That statement establishes the launch lineup, not whether a later port has since been announced. Check PlaySide’s current platform information for an update.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What kind of game is MOUSE: P.I. For Hire?
It is a first-person shooter starring private investigator Jack Pepper. The game combines hand-drawn rubber-hose animation inspired by 1930s cartoons with a jazz-fueled adventure. Its story begins with a missing-person case in Mouseburg and leads into a world of corruption, gangs, crooked cops, and conspiracy.
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.
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.
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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.
