The sequel to Squanch Games’ polarizing first-person shooter, High on Life 2, showcases notable advancements, although its most ambitious features still present challenges. Technical issues continue to shadow the progress made, yet there’s a sense of evolution that cannot be overlooked.
Reflecting on the original High on Life, it was a title that left many, including myself, frustrated. The game emerged with a cacophony of stoner humor and lackluster gunplay, which Eurogamer aptly critiqued. However, in the spirit of second chances, High on Life 2 offers a glimpse of redemption. The sequel is more engaging, with a quicker pace and a surprising flair for skateboarding, which adds an unexpected twist to the gameplay.
Gameplay and Narrative Evolution
Players once again step into the shoes of an intergalactic bounty hunter, now basking in the aftermath of defeating the G3 cartel. The narrative kicks off with a dynamic montage showcasing your rise to fame, complete with talk-show appearances and hover-limo escapades. Yet, the allure of celebrity life soon gives way to a new mission: dismantling Rhea Pharmaceutical, a corporation with plans that threaten humanity’s very existence.
This shift in focus introduces a more compelling array of objectives, as players confront eccentric billionaires, mad scientists, and corrupt politicians. One standout mission takes place on ConCon, a planet dedicated to conventions, where the absurdity of the setting is matched only by the outrageous tasks at hand, including a hilariously competitive parking scenario.
While not every mission hits the mark—some, like a cult infiltration, suffer from uninspired design—the overall creativity remains intact throughout the game. The introduction of skateboarding enhances both platforming and combat, allowing for exhilarating movement that feels both intuitive and satisfying.
Improved Tone and Humor
The tonal shift in High on Life 2 is palpable. The writing is less grating than its predecessor, with a more sincere attempt at character development, particularly with Travis, a new pistol character navigating his own tumultuous relationship. While the humor still doesn’t quite reach the heights of titles like Psychonauts 2, the reduced hostility makes it easier to overlook moments that fall flat.
Despite these improvements, the core shooting mechanics still lag behind. While the enemies are more diverse and the arsenal expanded, the overall feel of combat lacks the satisfying impact that defines a great shooter. The floaty mechanics and lack of visceral feedback during gunplay detract from the experience, even as the skateboarding feature attempts to distract from these shortcomings.
Technical Challenges and Accessibility
High on Life 2 is not without its technical hurdles, including significant bugs that hinder gameplay. In one instance, a glitch prevented interactions with key characters, complicating mission objectives. Nevertheless, the game’s charm and creativity shine through, leaving players with a sense of cautious optimism.
Accessibility options have been thoughtfully integrated, allowing for a more inclusive gaming experience. Features such as subtitle adjustments, camera motion settings, and controller sensitivity sliders cater to a diverse audience, ensuring that more players can enjoy the game.
In summary, while High on Life 2 is not without its flaws, it represents a significant step forward for Squanch Games. The blend of humor, creativity, and improved gameplay elements creates a more enjoyable experience, even if it doesn’t quite reach the heights of its peers. The journey from its predecessor to this sequel illustrates a maturation process that, while imperfect, holds promise for the future of the franchise.
