Action shooter "MOUSE: P.I. For Hire" focusing on rubber hose animation, releases deep dive video
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/706/G070608/20251029029/
Writer: Katsuura Umi | 2025/10/29 05:57 (UTC)
Fumi Games has released a deep-dive video offering an inside look at the development of its upcoming action shooter “MOUSE: P.I. For Hire”, scheduled for release on March 19, 2026, across PC, Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, PS4, and Xbox One.
“MOUSE: P.I. For Hire” (Japanese title: MOUSE: Yatoware no Tantei) is a first-person action game that applies the “rubber hose” animation technique—popularized in Hollywood during the 1930s black-and-white film era—to create cartoonish, stylized 2D characters within a 3D environment. The term “rubber hose” refers to a style where character limbs and necks bend fluidly, effectively conveying frantic motion. Classic examples include Mickey Mouse, Looney Tunes, Betty Boop, and Popeye.
Thumbnail image for Gallery No.002 / Deep-dive video released for action shooter “MOUSE: P.I. For Hire” with focus on rubber hose animation Thumbnail image for Gallery No.003 / Deep-dive video released for action shooter “MOUSE: P.I. For Hire” with focus on rubber hose animation
The newly released deep-dive video highlights how the development team meticulously hand-drew every character, as well as the protagonist’s hands and weapons—entirely by hand—to perfectly achieve the rubber hose animation style in a 3D environment. The team faced significant challenges: they prepared six different angles per character to depict various movements, and even minor adjustments to game design required redrawing all character animations from scratch.
“MOUSE: P.I. For Hire” features a central hub that players visit at the beginning and end of each mission. This hub includes a detective office where players can check mission results and plan next steps; “Little Big,” a bar serving as an information gathering spot; and “Tami’s Ring,” mechanic Tamy’s workshop, where weapons can be upgraded. Additionally, there are mini-games for free play—such as a card-based baseball board game—which appear in the video.
Thumbnail image for Gallery No.005 / Deep-dive video released for action shooter “MOUSE: P.I. For Hire” with focus on rubber hose animation Thumbnail image for Gallery No.006 / Deep-dive video released for action shooter “MOUSE: P.I. For Hire” with focus on rubber hose animation
The video also introduces several weapons, including “Tarpentine,” which continuously sprays white paint until the target dissolves; “Freeze Gun,” capable of freezing enemies and shattering them into pieces; and “Cartoon Cannon,” a weapon that can destroy walls. The Cartoon Cannon functions like a shotgun when switching ammunition, proving effective against mechanical enemies resembling robots.
The video also touches on multiple boss characters featured in the game. In addition to Vic Gatore, leader of the alligator gang whose artwork has already been revealed, players can now spot the ghostly figure known as “Third Wife.” This spirit appears in graveyards and can be temporarily incapacitated by shining a flashlight on her—indicating that each boss battle requires specific items or strategies.
Thumbnail image for Gallery No.007 / Deep-dive video released for action shooter “MOUSE: P.I. For Hire” with focus on rubber hose animation Thumbnail image for Gallery No.008 / Deep-dive video released for action shooter “MOUSE: P.I. For Hire” with focus on rubber hose animation
The story follows private detective Jack as a seemingly small missing persons case he’s hired to solve spirals into an intricate conspiracy woven deep beneath the town of Mouseburg. While delivering relentless, high-octane action, the game also incorporates exploration elements inspired by Metroidvania titles. Those interested are encouraged to add the game to their wishlist on Steam and keep an eye out for future updates.