High on Life 2’s Biggest Challenge Could Also Be Its Greatest Boon

As the first game developed by Squanch Games following the departure of its former founder, Justin Roiland, High on Life 2 could turn this challenge into an opportunity to explore new potential for both the series and its studio. While High on Life 2 will also be the first sequel from the studio, Roiland’s resignation from Squanch Games amidst controversial allegations may continue to overshadow the developer as it moves forward with its upcoming game. However, the lack of Roiland’s particular brand of creative and comedic direction could give the sequel a chance to find a new and improved identity by reimagining the established world of High on Life.

Despite the central role Roiland played as the voice of Kenny, the player’s first Gatlian weapon, his absence from High on Life‘s DLC seemed to suggest that the series would continue regardless of his involvement. But while TV shows like Rick and Morty and Solar Opposites maintained their status quo by recasting Roiland’s characters, High on Life 2 could uphold the standard set by the High on Knife DLC and embrace new ideas, stories, and humor. From expanding its existing star-studded cast of voice actors to refining High on Life‘s jokes and storytelling, the upcoming sequel could be pivotal for Squanch Games’ future development.

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High on Life 2 Faces A Make-or-Break Moment Without Justin Roiland

Even though Roiland has refuted the allegations and his charges were dismissed due to insufficient evidence, it appears there is still division among fans of shows, games, and other projects he had previously been connected with. After High on Life 2 was announced during Xbox Games Showcase 2025 and shared via Reddit, users like the one below have commented on the sequel’s potential without Roiland’s involvement.

As a result, while players could glean some initial insight from High on Life‘s DLC following Roiland’s resignation from Squanch Games, it seems that High on Life 2 will set clearer expectations for the studio and its future games.

Though the recent showcase revealed High on Life 2‘s new features, ranging from skateboarding to new Gatlian weapons, the sequel’s trailer didn’t include any notable details regarding its story or comedy beyond reaffirming the series’ premise of converting humans into drugs. However, while the sequel’s trailer confirmed the return of several Gatlians from High on Life, such as Gus and Creature, Kenny did not seem to be among them. Therefore, this trailer could be a sign that High on Life 2 is making the most out of Kenny’s removal by expanding its Gatlian arsenal with new characters, gimmicks, and combat gameplay.

Exploring High on Life 2’s New Characters, Settings, and Potential Future

Much like the first game, which featured well-known voice actors like Tara Strong, Tom Kenny, Jennifer Hale, and Michael Cusack, High on Life 2 has already claimed it will feature “an all-star comedy cast.” While Squanch Games has yet to confirm specific names, this could still be promising for the new weapons that appeared during High on Life 2‘s trailer and the potential personalities, jokes, and interactions they could have. For instance, High on Life 2 embraces its FPS genre by adding an akimbo Gatlian couple for duel-wielding gunplay and a bow-based Gatlian that gets struck in the face by its recoiling string.

In addition to its cast, High on Life 2‘s Steam page teases several settings that will appear throughout the game, including the galaxy’s biggest convention, an alien zoo for humans, and a luxury futuristic cruise liner. The page also outlines the game’s continuing focus on taking down its alien “Big Pharma,” suggesting that High on Life 2 will shift from the reluctant hero trope to a rebellious one, setting the tone and direction for the franchise’s potential future. With a stronger focus on its absurdity, satire, and parody, High on Life 2‘s improved narrative and refreshed cast could help it and Squanch Games move on from Roiland’s legacy.