High On Life 2 is on its way, and it’s set to exceed expectations by being bigger, funnier, and more innovative than its predecessor. Yet, what really stands out about this sequel is its daring decision to overhaul the structure of the original game. Drawing inspiration from the Metroidvania genre, the developers are crafting a unique experience that promises to captivate both returning fans and newcomers alike.
In a recent discussion on the Official Xbox Podcast, Squanch Games’ COO and Executive Producer, Matty Studivan, alongside Creative and Art Director, Mikey Spano, revealed the ambitious new direction the team is heading. They explained how they fundamentally changed their approach to create a new hub-based design for High On Life 2. This shift allows for a more expansive and interactive world, while still maintaining the sharp storytelling that players have come to love.
As Spano elaborated, “Our Design Director, Erich Meyr, and I decided early on that we wanted to incorporate elements from Metroidvania games. However, our goal was to use these elements to enhance storytelling.” This led to the decision to integrate Metroidvania features into the hubs, rather than the entire game world.
The original High On Life centered around a single location, Blim City. In contrast, the sequel expands the universe to include three distinct hubs, each offering a plethora of interactions and experiences that become more engaging as players progress. According to Studivan, “This is a significant leap forward from the first game. While Blim City was an interesting place, it was geographically limited.”
The new hubs are designed to be more than just backdrops. They are bustling environments filled with side quests, non-playable characters (NPCs), and an abundance of collectibles. An exciting addition to the gameplay is the skateboard, which not only enhances mobility but also introduces unique challenges and activities within the hubs.
The innovative structure of High On Life 2 allows Squanch Games to seamlessly blend their signature humor with the core narrative. As Spano described, “In terms of how it all flows together, you have your home base, which you frequently return to. Here, you discuss strategies with your crew before embarking on missions. This setup allows for both structured storytelling and player autonomy.”
One of the standout features of this sequel is the studio’s creative process. Squanch Games employs “game jams” where the entire team collaborates to generate fresh ideas. Studivan noted, “We’ve incorporated many of these creative concepts into the hubs, providing players with a rich and varied experience.”
Exploration is further rewarded by hidden mini-games and unique content scattered throughout the hubs, ensuring that every discovery offers something new. Fans of the original game will also be pleased to hear that the quirky inclusion of real-life movies makes a return, complete with a dedicated movie theater within the game.
The developers have made significant investments in enhancing the side content, aiming to create a vibrant, lived-in world. This approach caters to different types of players. Those focused on the main storyline can progress without distractions, while completionists can delve into the side missions at their leisure.
The game is designed to accommodate various play styles. For instance, mission lengths are tailored to fit into a single gaming session, making it convenient for players with limited time. Meanwhile, those seeking a more open-ended experience can enjoy the freedom to explore and engage with the world at their own pace.
Despite its whimsical exterior, High On Life 2 is underpinned by smart, classic game design principles. This foundation allows the developers to experiment with bold ideas, such as a boss battle where the enemy hacks into the player’s game interface, creating a unique challenge.
The anticipation for High On Life 2 is palpable, with early glimpses showcasing just how far the developers are willing to push the boundaries. As Spano teased, “The demo we’ve shown is just the beginning. By the third act, things get even more unpredictable and exciting.”
Mark your calendars for February 13, 2026, when High On Life 2 launches on Xbox Series X|S and PC. The game will also be available on Game Pass Ultimate from day one, making it accessible to a broad audience. For those eager to learn more, the full Official Xbox Podcast episode offers deeper insights into the game’s development, including the transition to Unreal Engine 5 and the challenges of writing comedic content for video games.
In summary, High On Life 2 is shaping up to be a thrilling sequel that not only builds on the success of the original but also introduces innovative gameplay mechanics and a richer world. Whether you’re a fan of immersive storytelling, exploratory gameplay, or just looking for a good laugh, this game promises to deliver on all fronts.
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