Mouse P.I. For Hire will have Metroidvania elements

Fans of classic 1930s cartoons are in for a treat with FPS MOUSE: P.I. For Hire. Developed by Fumi Games, this game transports players to a noir city dripping with atmosphere, where corruption runs rampant, and justice is in short supply.

But don’t be fooled by the dark, crime-ridden streets and serious undertones — the game’s unique visual style, inspired by the rubber hose animation of the early 20th century, adds a layer of playful charm that’s hard to resist.

In an exciting twist, MOUSE: P.I. For Hire isn’t just an FPS. The developers at Fumi Games have woven in elements of Metroidvania, ensuring that players will experience a blend of familiar gunplay with new, explorative mechanics.

During an interview at Gamescom 2024, Lead Producer Maciej Krzemien discussed the team’s desire to make the game feel both “familiar and fresh.” This means incorporating classic FPS elements — like a diverse arsenal of weapons and power-ups — while also introducing features that encourage exploration and backtracking, which are hallmarks of the Metroidvania genre.

One of the standout features is P.I. Pepper’s tail, which doubles as a grappling hook to grab onto swinging points. This mechanic allows players to reach new heights and explore previously inaccessible areas.

The levels in MOUSE: P.I. For Hire are designed to keep players on their toes. Some areas will be more linear, guiding you through a tightly crafted narrative, while others will branch out, offering multiple paths and hidden secrets. The developers are experimenting with different styles of level design to ensure the game never feels repetitive.

In the game’s official title reveal trailer, fans were given a sneak peek at some of these environments. The Marina, for example, once a bustling hub of trade and commerce, now stands as a shadow of its former self, simply full of criminals.

Despite all the exciting reveals, there’s still a lot we don’t know. Fumi Games is keeping tight-lipped about the game’s release date, though it’s expected sometime in 2025. Both Krzemien and CEO Mateusz Michalak have emphasized their commitment to perfecting the game before releasing any Steam demos or Early Access versions. It’s clear they want to deliver a polished experience that lives up to the hype they've created.

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