Some of the best ideas start as unlikely combinations. Think pineapple on pizza or Robert Pattinson as Batman. High on Life 2 is aiming for that same magic by blending its comedy first‑person shooter with skateboarding.
Development Hurdles
Initially, even the developers at Squanch Games were skeptical. In a new trailer revealed during the PC Gaming Show: Most Wanted, the team shared their journey of turning this “dumb idea” into one of the game’s standout features.
Lead artist Colby Wahl estimates the team went through about 100 different versions of the skateboard mechanic. Chief creative officer Mikey Spano even pushed to cut the feature at one point, despite his fondness for the idea. Now, he can’t imagine the game without it.
Gameplay Impact
The skateboard is more than just a mode of transport. Players can grind rails to move faster, use the board to combat enemies, and perform tricks while wielding an expanded alien arsenal. This new mechanic replaces the grapple gun from the first game, offering faster, more fluid, and dynamic movement.
Audio Design
Audio director Pete Maguire emphasized the importance of making every movement feel satisfying. From pushing and jumping to grinding and doing tricks, the team aimed to make the sounds “beefier than life.”
Industry Perspective
In an industry often criticized for playing it safe, Squanch Games’ willingness to take risks is commendable. If the first game is any indication, High on Life 2 will be full of surprises when it launches on PC on February 13 next year.
Don’t forget to wishlist High on Life 2 on Steam and check out more announcements from the PC Gaming Show: Most Wanted 2025 Powered by Xbox Game Pass.
