It should likely go unsaid that when I first encountered *Mouse: P.I. For Hire*—originally just called *Mouse*—I was instantly captivated. It was yet another one of those titles that appeared on one of my social media feeds, and I was enamored with its concept. I’ve previously noted that I’ve genuinely enjoyed the fusion of 2D characters within 3D settings, as seen in games like *Demon Turf, Ruff and the Riverside* and *Forgive Me Father.* However, *Mouse: P.I. For Hire* truly elevated this idea.

With [Summer Game Fest](https://www.cgmagonline.com/news/summer-game-fest-2025-every-announcement/) being as hectic as it is, CGM couldn’t sit down with Fumi Games directly to delve deeper into *Mouse: P.I. For Hire,* but the team kindly shared with us some initial footage of the game in action, and I must admit—it’s quite a progression. What began as a relatively simple shooter with an amazing aesthetic has evolved into something remarkably creative and ingeniously original.

The gameplay video we were presented with showcased Jack Pepper—the main character, voiced by none other than [Troy Baker](https://www.cgmagonline.com/news/death-stranding-2-a-10-minute-trailer/)—tracking a lead to an old Opera House where it appears a mayoral candidate is about to become the target of an assassination. Jack must fight through a horde of thugs to prevent this and uncover his next clue to solve the case.

What was immediately compelling about the demo was how it appeared to display more than the typical combat—which has been the focus of several of the game’s pre-release trailers. While it may still embrace the rather conventional level structure found in many classic FPS titles, it almost hinted at gameplay that could suggest *Mouse: P.I. For Hire* might incorporate some Immersive Sim elements.

### “Though it’s still a bit away from launch, it’s incredible to see just how much *Mouse: P.I. For Hire* has progressed in its development.”

As players approached the Opera, they were presented with the option to bribe one of the waiters for discreet access inside without causing a scene, or they could potentially gain entry through the air ducts. Additionally, it featured a brief moment where Jack snapped a picture of some suspicious activity, implying there may be aspects of mystery-solving in this game. While it wasn’t extensive, it would fit perfectly with the game’s Noir theme, encouraging players to explore, gather clues, and tackle situations from diverse angles.

The combat itself appeared extremely tight and thrilling in a manner reminiscent of many classic shooters. Confined spaces and numerous adversaries will keep players alert, and they’ll need to take advantage of a wide array of traditional and unique weapons, as well as the environment itself—explosive barrels can provide a tactical edge.

But naturally, the centerpiece of the trailer was witnessing the game’s stunning aesthetic come to life. It’s a method that dates back to the Nintendo 64 era—utilizing a 2D object that consistently faces the camera. Nonetheless, Fumi Games has dedicated an incredible amount of effort to capture the essence and style of classic cartoons in an enjoyable and imaginative manner. From the way Jack acquires new weapons in a manner that’s both realistic and whimsical, to the manner in which those weapons bounce around as though made of rubber, to the amusingly exaggerated enemy demises—think more *Itchy and Scratchy* than *Steamboat Willie.*

And the ingenuity of *Mouse: P.I. For Hire* is evident in the weapons themselves. Although the demo showcased several that are quite typical for the Noir genre, the one that truly stood out to me was the Turpentine Gun. I couldn’t help but chuckle at a weapon that, in any other shooter, might simply have been a Plasma or Acid Gun, yet here it employs a chemical specifically meant to dissolve paint. It was this little nuance that truly had me eager to see what other playful interpretations *Mouse: P.I. For Hire* would explore with its premise.

While it’s still a bit away from launch, it’s amazing to see just how far *Mouse: P.I. For Hire* has progressed in its development. It serves as a solid reminder that even games that seem simple in genre can be transformed into something far more impactful through an imaginative concept. [Titles like this](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2416450/MOUSE_PI_For_Hire/) are why I’m always emphasizing the [Indie](https://www.cgmagonline.com/news/sg) scene.