Squanch Games’ foul-mouthed comedy shooter is back. High On Life 2 launched on February 13, 2026 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with a Nintendo Switch 2 version coming April 20. The original divided critics but found a massive audience — so does the sequel live up to the hype?
What’s Changed from the Original
The biggest addition is the skateboard traversal system. What was a minor feature in the first game has been expanded into a core gameplay pillar that affects both movement and combat flow. You’ll be grinding rails, launching off ramps, and shooting aliens mid-kickflip.
The level design has also seen a major overhaul. High On Life 2 adopts a Metroidvania-inspired structure spread across three large hub areas (up from just one in the original). Backtracking with new abilities to unlock previously inaccessible areas adds genuine exploration incentive.
The talking guns — the series’ signature gimmick — are back with more distinct combat identities. Each weapon now feels mechanically unique rather than just being “a different flavor of weird.” And yes, the humor is still very much the core identity.
What Critics Are Saying
Reviews are sitting at an 82 on Metacritic for Xbox, with PC and PS5 versions around 75. The spread across outlets is wide:
- Xbox Era: “High On Life 2 is bigger yet smaller. It’s both bold and more reserved in how it dishes out gameplay mechanics and story beats. I loved my 15 hours with it.”
- Windows Central: “Louder, weirder, and somehow better”
Some critics flagged bugs at launch and questioned whether the formula evolved enough, but the consensus leans positive — especially for fans of the original.
Should You Play It?
If you enjoyed the first High On Life, this is a confident step forward. The skateboard mechanic, expanded world design, and improved gunplay address the original’s biggest weaknesses. If you bounced off the humor before, the sequel won’t change your mind — this is still very much a Squanch Games joint.
The Switch 2 version arrives April 20, 2026 for anyone waiting on portable play.
