SkillPoint MOUSE: P.I. For Hire Review

With MOUSE: P.I. For Hire, PlaySide Studios delivers a surprisingly charming shooter with a strong noir vibe. The hand-drawn cartoon visuals, superb jazz soundtrack, and varied locations combine to create a highly cohesive world. Rounding out the experience are an entertaining arsenal of weapons, numerous secrets, and a story that skillfully expands a seemingly minor missing-person case into a larger conspiracy. The game’s weaknesses lie primarily in the detective work—which feels somewhat underdeveloped within the levels—and the main hub, which is too small and lacks life. The balance between investigation and action also shifts a bit unevenly toward the end. Nevertheless, MOUSE: P.I. For Hire is a lovingly crafted, entertaining shooter with a unique charm all its own. Rating: 85% (full Review in German on skillpoint_at)