Mouse: P.I. for Hire — Release Date Set for March 19, 2026
We finally have a launch date for Mouse: P.I. for Hire — the stylish, hand‑drawn noir action game starring Troy Baker as private investigator Jack Pepper will arrive on March 19, 2026. The title blends frenetic FPS action with clue‑gathering, stealth and detective‑style puzzle work, wrapped in a vintage cartoon aesthetic.
The game leans heavily on hand‑drawn animation and an original jazz soundtrack recorded with an ensemble, giving it a unique tone that mixes whimsy and grit. Trailers suggest a Cuphead‑meets‑Doom vibe, but the developers emphasize the detective mechanics: photographing clues, interrogating characters and unraveling a revenge‑driven narrative.
Key details
- Release date: March 19, 2026
- Platforms: PC, Switch, Switch 2, PS5 & PS4, Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One
- Voice talent: Troy Baker voices protagonist Jack Pepper
- Style & sound: Hand‑drawn frames, film‑noir visuals and an original jazz orchestra soundtrack
- Gameplay: FPS combat with quirky weapons (e.g., a turpentine gun), clue‑gathering, photo evidence and stealth/detection mechanics
Early previews praised the game’s depth beyond its shock‑value violence, noting engaging detective elements and surprising narrative weight. Expect a mix of frenetic combat encounters and quieter investigative segments that reward observation and exploration.
If you want to watch the release trailer or follow updates, check the official game channels and coverage from gaming outlets for the latest. For initial reporting and a preview, see Engadget’s coverage: Engadget: Mouse: P.I. for Hire arrives in March 2026.
Discussion: Does Mouse’s blend of old‑school hand‑drawn animation and modern FPS action appeal to you — and will Troy Baker’s lead performance make you buy it on day one?