High on Life 2

We very easily forgive High on Life 2 its few flaws. The combat remains dynamic enough and the levels well designed enough for its weaknesses to feel secondary when set against the festival of stupidity it delivers. The game draws us in above all for its comedic proposition, and on that front it is a great success. Whether in the writing of its characters, the dialogue, or in certain offbeat situations—both in terms of gameplay and visually—the studio has spared no effort in bringing to life the wildest and most ridiculous ideas that crossed their minds. How can one not respect such dedication in elevating stupidity to the status of a true art form?

Squanch Games delivers a sequel that, while not perfect and lacking the novelty factor of its predecessor, manages to stand out from the crowd of generic shooters with personality and boldness.

High On Life 2 goes for more action and snappier movement while keeping its absurd humor and irreverent identity, even if it doesn’t fully recapture the original’s fresh impact. The addition of skating and new abilities brings real depth to both combat and exploration, while its straightforward, continuing story does the job without taking many risks. Fun and true to its core, though it can feel a bit repetitive.

A fun but flawed sequel that doubles down on the first game's quirky humor and inventive gunplay while adding new movement mechanics and environmental puzzles. However, technical issues and a core conflict between comedy and momentum hold it back from greatness. Best experienced on sale after patches.

In a genre crowded with self-serious shooters, there is something refreshing about a series so deeply committed to its own identity. Even when the bit falters, even when it reaches for the lowest-hanging fruit, High on Life 2 never feels timid. It is garish and intermittently incisive. At its best, it makes the threat of human extinction feel like an open mic night you’re moderately glad you attended.