During the Xbox Partner Preview, PlaySide Publishing and Fumi Games confirmed first-person shooter Mouse: P.I. For Hire is coming to PC and consoles in 2025.
Since Disney’s OG Mickey Mouse cartoon Steamboat Willie officially entered the public domain on January 1, 2024, developers and modders have been eager to utilize the look and world of the iconic cartoon. While Mouse: P.I.’s description doesn’t specifically mention Steamboat Willie, like Cuphead, its “rubber hose” art style is directly inspired by 1930s cartoons.
And c’mon, it stars a mouse!
To further cement the era, the world is depicted in monochrome, and also features an original retro jazz soundtrack.
Mouse: P.I. stars gritty investigator Jack Pepper, who battles his way through the crime-ridden city of Mouseburg in a pulpy noir story.
Combat is darkly comical and quite violent, earning the shooter a T rating for Violence and Animated Blood as Jack mows down cartoon mouse-gangsters. Jack has access to a variety of weapons and upgrades, from Tommy guns to dynamite, as well as melee attacks.
The animation and world design look incredible — I’m glad this unique style is getting some more attention among developers and gamers.
Mouse: P.I. For Hire will release in 2025 for PC, PlayStation, Switch, and Xbox. It’s rated T for Teen.
