by A unique blend of vintage animation and modern gameplay is arriving soon. The highly anticipated FPS title MOUSE: Hired Detective will officially launch its physical edition in Japan on July 9, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch 2.
The announcement was made by U&I Entertainment Japan, confirming that this stylish indie title developed by Fumi Games is ready to captivate players with its distinctive art style and noir-inspired storytelling.
Release Dates & Platforms
Physical Edition (Japan Only)
- Release Date: July 9, 2026
- Platforms: PS5 (Disc), Nintendo Switch 2 (Game Card)
- Price: ¥4,950 (tax included)
Digital Edition (Global)
- Release Date: April 16, 2026
- Platforms:
- PC (Steam)
- PS5
- Xbox Series X|S
- Nintendo Switch 2
Note: As of now, versions for PS4, Xbox One, and the original Nintendo Switch have not been announced.
A Stunning 1930s Cartoon-Inspired Visual Style
One of the standout features of MOUSE: Hired Detective is its hand-drawn black-and-white animation, inspired by 1930s “rubber hose” cartoons.
Visual Highlights:
- Fully hand-animated characters and environments
- Classic cartoon aesthetics with exaggerated movements
- Film grain, flicker, and line jitter effects for authenticity
- A nostalgic look reminiscent of early animation history
This artistic direction sets it apart from traditional FPS games, offering a fresh yet retro gaming experience.
Gameplay Overview: Noir Meets Action
Set in the gritty city of Mouseburg, the game combines fast-paced shooting mechanics with a detective-driven narrative.
Story Premise:
You play as a hard-boiled detective navigating a dangerous underworld filled with:
- Ruthless gangs
- Corrupt police officers
- Hidden conspiracies
Your mission is to uncover the truth behind a complex web of crime, corruption, and murder.
Core Gameplay Features:
- First-person shooter combat
- Story-driven investigation elements
- Exploration of a noir-style city
- Jazz-inspired soundtrack enhances immersion
The combination of jazz music and intense gunfights creates a cinematic atmosphere rarely seen in FPS titles.
Editions & Pricing Details
Steam Version:
- Standard Edition: ¥3,400
- Deluxe Edition: ¥4,500
Deluxe Edition Includes:
- Access to upcoming DLC
- Full original soundtrack
- Digital comic book
This makes the Deluxe Edition a great option for fans who want extra content and deeper immersion.
New Updates & Key Highlights
Here are some additional insights and updates that make this release even more exciting:
What’s New:
- First-ever console release for this indie title
- Enhanced performance expected on PS5 and Switch 2
- Growing interest due to its unique art direction
- Strong early buzz among indie game communities
Why MOUSE: Hired Detective Stands Out
In a market full of realistic shooters, this game offers something truly different:
Unique Selling Points:
- Rare 1930s cartoon aesthetic in a modern FPS
- Detective noir storytelling blended with action
- Immersive jazz soundtrack
- Cross-platform availability
It appeals to both:
- Fans of classic animation
- Players looking for innovative indie games
SEO-Friendly Summary
MOUSE: Hired Detective is a 1930s cartoon-style FPS game launching in Japan on July 9, 2026, for PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2. Featuring hand-drawn black-and-white animation, noir storytelling, and jazz-inspired gameplay, it offers a unique experience that blends retro visuals with modern action mechanics.
Final Thoughts
MOUSE: Hired Detective is shaping up to be one of the most visually unique FPS games in recent years. With its blend of nostalgic animation, engaging detective story, and action-packed gameplay, it offers a refreshing alternative to traditional shooters.
Whether you’re drawn to:
- Retro cartoon visuals
- Noir detective stories
- Or creative indie games
This title is definitely worth keeping on your radar.
