【Detective x Cartoon】 A retro FPS reminiscent of the 1930s!? Become a detective and strike down gangsters and corrupt cops in a monochrome world overflowing with jazz! The physical edition of “MOUSE: P.I. For Hire” is officially announced!

When I first saw the screen, I instinctively doubted my eyes, wondering, “Is this really a modern FPS?”. “MOUSE: P.I. For Hire” is an ambitious title that achieves a high level of completion as a modern action game while adopting monochrome visuals reminiscent of 1930s classic cartoons. The “rubber hose” style animation, produced frame-by-frame by hand, conveys a certain nostalgia while possessing astonishing smoothness in its movements. The sensation of stepping inside an old animated movie blends beautifully with the tension of a full-fledged shooter, drawing you into its unique worldview right from the start of gameplay.

The protagonist, Jack Pepper, was once a renowned war hero but currently makes his living as a private investigator. However, triggered by a routine missing person investigation, the case escalates into a scale beyond imagination. With corruption, kidnapping, and even murder intricately intertwined, the unfolding plot where a conspiracy enveloping the entire city gradually reveals itself delivers an immersion just like watching a noir film. It naturally makes you curious about what awaits next, serving as a work where you can thoroughly savor the amusement of the narrative itself, rather than just moving forward with a gun readied.

Just because the worldview is retro does not mean the combat is leisurely. The FPS action of this title is extremely speedy, with fierce battles continuing to the point where there is no time to stand still. Running around while dodging enemy attacks, switching weapons according to the situation, and counterattacking foes that appear one after another is pure exhilaration. It leaves an impression of modernizing the nimble game tempo reminiscent of boomer shooters, and anyone who loves action games will naturally get hooked. Since a split-second decision determines victory or defeat in boss battles, you can play while maintaining tension until the very end.

The weapons are also packed with playful touches quintessential to this work. While various equipment such as machine guns and explosive firearms appear, each is infused with classic cartoon-like humor, allowing the combat itself to be enjoyed as a comical performance. Furthermore, powerful power-up elements are prepared, making it possible to overturn the battle situation in one go by using them strategically. Above all, the direction of a grand punch reminiscent of spinach showcases affection toward old-school cartoon works, delivering an impact that brings a smile to your face just by watching it.

The point that it does not end with just fighting is another major charm of this game. The setting of Mouseberg features diverse locations—not only dark back alleys but also movie studios, a luxurious opera house, eerie marshes, and intricate sewers. Collectible elements and the fun of exploration are scattered across each location, offering new discoveries the more you detour. Furthermore, with actions like running up walls, moving using grappling hooks, and utilizing double jumps, the degree of freedom in action is high, firmly incorporating the fun of expanding your exploration range by acquiring new abilities just like a Metroidvania.

The presence of the big band jazz that envelops the entire game is also not to be missed. The musical tracks, which are lighthearted yet somehow evoke sorrow, exquisitely harmonize with the monochrome footage and noir-style story, naturally drawing players into the streets of Mouseberg. Whether it is a scene hyping up the intensity of a gunfight or quietly supporting the atmosphere during a tense moment approaching the truth of the case, the music firmly functions as part of the direction. Since you can enjoy the worldview of the work not only visually but also aurally, it further heightens the completion degree of the overall game.

“MOUSE: P.I. For Hire” is a title that beautifully merges an original visual style reminiscent of classic animation, full-fledged FPS action, and a deep detective story. A strong commitment can be felt in every element, spanning unique weapons, varied stages, fast-paced combat, the fun of exploration, and highly precise, memorable jazz sounds. While it appears to be a work with a nostalgic atmosphere at first glance, the moment you actually start playing, its charms as a cutting-edge action game will surely be conveyed one after another. Not to mention for those who love retro gaming, it is a single title that deserves close attention even from those seeking a fresh experience.