The talking guns are back, and they have a lot more to say. High on Life 2 has officially launched today, February 13, 2026, dropping simultaneously on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC. As the first full sequel from Squanch Games since the departure of co-creator Justin Roiland, all eyes have been on whether the studio could recapture the lightning-in-a-bottle success of the 2022 original while evolving its polarizing formula. If early reviews are any indication, the answer is a complicated "yes."
Critics are tearing into the game with the same fervor as the G3 Cartel, and the consensus is forming: High on Life 2 is a mechanically superior shooter that still refuses to compromise on its aggressively absurdist tone. With a new parkour-heavy skateboarding mechanic and expanded semi-open worlds, the game feels better to play, even if the jokes don't land for everyone. Here is the complete breakdown of what critics are saying about the galaxy's most talkative shooter.
The Gameplay: Skateboarding Saves the Day
The most universally praised addition to the sequel is the new traversal system. Moving away from the slower pace of the first game, High on Life 2 introduces a sci-fi skateboard that fundamentally changes combat encounters. Reviewers note that this isn't just a gimmick; it turns the game into a fast-paced arena shooter reminiscent of Sunset Overdrive or Tony Hawk's Pro Skater with guns.
Critics highlight that the movement feels fluid and responsive, allowing players to grind rails while firing the new roster of Gatlians. The shift from a single hub to three distinct, larger planetary regions has also been well-received, with exploration feeling less linear and more rewarding. The introduction of "Sheath," a new boss and character, along with returning favorites, keeps the combat loop engaging, even when the dialogue gets overwhelming.
The Humor: Love It or Loathe It
It wouldn't be a High on Life game without a split opinion on its comedy. The absence of Roiland is noticeable, with critics pointing out a shift in the writing style that feels slightly more ensemble-driven but still retains the signature improvisational, stammering tone. For some outlets, this is a breath of fresh air that keeps the charm without the baggage; for others, the relentless quips during intense firefights remain a major point of frustration.
Several reviews mention that the "dialogue frequency" slider—a feature requested since the first game—is a godsend, allowing players to dial back the chatter if they want to focus on the improved shooting mechanics. However, the narrative, which sees the protagonist hunting down a new pharmaceutical conglomerate threatening humanity (and kidnapping your sister, Lizzie), is generally seen as a serviceable vehicle for the jokes rather than a standalone masterpiece.
Technical Performance: A Buggy Launch
Unfortunately, the launch hasn't been seamless. A recurring theme in today's review scores is the presence of technical glitches. Reports of frame rate drops on console versions, particularly during chaotic skateboarding sequences, are common. Some PC players are also reporting crashes and texture pop-in, which has dampened the excitement of the simultaneous multi-platform release.
While Squanch Games has already promised a Day One patch, the current state of the game has dragged down scores at outlets that prioritize polish. If you are playing on Xbox Game Pass, the technical hiccups might be easier to forgive than for those paying full price on PlayStation 5.
Verdict: Is High on Life 2 Worth Your Time?
High on Life 2 sits in a unique spot. It is undeniably a better video game than its predecessor, boasting deeper mechanics, better level design, and a fun new traversal gimmick. However, it remains culturally divisive. If you loved the first game's vibe, this is an essential upgrade that gives you more of what you want. If the original's humor grated on you, the refined gameplay might be enough to tempt you back—especially with that mute button handy.
For Xbox Game Pass subscribers, the barrier to entry is low, making it an easy recommendation for a weekend playthrough. PS5 owners might want to wait for the first round of stability patches before jumping in. Ultimately, High on Life 2 proves that Squanch Games has a future beyond its original creator, carving out a niche for high-octane comedy shooters that no one else is really filling in 2026.
