High on Life 2 review
PC Gamer
by Morgan Park February 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
High on Life 2 offers a fresh take on its predecessor's formula by ditching the relentless cynicism and embracing a more genuine, heartfelt approach to humor and storytelling. While the first game leaned heavily on Justin Roiland's signature style, which often felt over-the-top and exhausting, High on Life 2 finds its footing as a creative, funny, and surprisingly chill adventure. The game follows the Outlaw, a bounty hunter turned folk hero, on a mission to take down a pharmaceutical cartel that's turning humans into literal pain pills. This narrative premise is both absurd and thought-provoking, allowing the game to explore themes of greed and exploitation through its unique sci-fi lens.
The gameplay experience is a mix of fast-paced shooting and creative level design, with each mission offering unexpected twists and turns. Whether you're solving an intricate murder mystery on a luxury cruise ship or navigating a world filled with bizarre characters and environments, High on Life 2 feels like a love letter to fans of quirky, offbeat storytelling in gaming. The game's humor is still present but feels more balanced, avoiding the crassness that sometimes overshadowed its predecessor.
What truly sets High on Life 2 apart is its commitment to originality. Each level is meticulously crafted with bespoke assets and mechanics, creating a sense of wonder and surprise at every turn. From the hub city where you can upgrade your gear and take on side quests to the wildly imaginative locations across the galaxy, the game feels like a labor of love from Squanch Games. The lack of multiplayer mode doesn't feel like a limitation; instead, it allows the single-player experience to shine.
For gamers seeking a blend of humor, creativity, and solid gameplay mechanics, High on Life 2 delivers in spades. While it may not appeal to everyone—especially those who found the original game's humor too niche—it offers a unique perspective on the first-person shooter genre. The game's ability to balance absurdity with emotional depth makes it a standout title in an increasingly crowded market, proving that even small-budget projects can innovate and surprise players in unexpected ways.
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/13/2026