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High on Life

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of High on Life
Item: High on Life
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresAdventure, Action, Shooter, Comedy, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableDec 13, 2022

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperSquanch Games

Overview

From the mind of Justin Roiland (Rick and Morty, Solar Opposites) comes High On Life. Humanity is being threatened by an alien cartel who wants to use them as drugs. It’s up to you to rescue and partner with charismatic, talking guns, take down Garmantuous and his gang, and save the world!

Elsewhere

7.8

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

High on Life serves up a wild, comedic ride with a teenager and his talking gun battling an alien cartel, drawing comparisons to Rick and Morty for its zany humor and vibrant visuals. While some praise its absurdity and engaging storytelling, critics slam it for being overly lengthy, repetitive, and lacking emotional depth. The dialogue, though funny, often falls flat, leaving players feeling disconnected. In short, the game shines with humor but stumbles in narrative cohesion, feeling more like a series of comedic gags than a compelling story.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of High on Life has garnered a mix of appreciation for its humor and creativity, particularly for its absurd and zany narrative style. Critics like IGN and Xbox Tavern highlight the game’s comedic premise, which revolves around a teenager teaming up with a talking gun to combat an alien cartel intent on exploiting humanity as a drug. This unique blend of humor and action, reminiscent of Rick and Morty, resonates with some reviewers who appreciate the quirky dialogue and the vibrant, chaotic atmosphere it creates. Critics such as Game Rant and New Game Network also commend the game for its engaging storytelling elements, with Game Rant noting the unpredictable sci-fi adventure and visually distinct planets that enhance the overall experience. However, the reception of the story is not universally positive, with many critics pointing out significant flaws. Reviewers from But Why Tho? and WellPlayed criticize the writing for being overly lengthy, repetitive, and at times insufferably smug, detracting from the overall experience. The dialogue, while humorous, is often described as inane and lacking depth, with Atomix and Game Informer noting that the reliance on humor overshadows coherent narrative development. Additionally, some critics, like EGM and PC Gamer, express concerns about the lack of emotional connection and character development, which can leave players feeling detached from the story and its characters. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while High on Life offers a humorous and absurd narrative filled with potential, it ultimately falls short in delivering a compelling and cohesive story. Critics like The Jimquisition and Digital Trends emphasize that the game often feels like a collection of comedic moments rather than a well-structured narrative, with many elements leaning heavily on gaming tropes without adding originality. Despite its entertaining aspects, the story's execution leaves many feeling that it lacks the depth and engagement expected from a modern video game narrative.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

High on Life delivers a mixed bag of gameplay, blending humor with unique mechanics like Metroidvania-style exploration and quirky weaponry. Critics praise its chaotic combat and engaging traversal, but many slam it for repetitive, uninspired combat and linear level design. The game shines in moments of creativity but falls short with weak gunplay and enemy variety, leading to frustration. Overall, it’s a fun ride for some, but may disappoint those seeking depth and challenge.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of High on Life has garnered a mixed response from critics, with some praising its unique elements and engaging mechanics. Several reviewers, such as Press Start Australia and Generación Xbox, highlight the game's Metroidvania-style exploration and the variety of weapons, particularly the Gatlians, which offer unique abilities and add depth to the combat experience. Critics like Movies Games and Tech also commend the humor infused into the gameplay, especially with the sentient weapons providing a comedic twist to encounters. Additionally, GameSpot and XboxEra appreciate the chaotic and fast-paced nature of the combat, noting that the traversal mechanics and level design contribute to an overall enjoyable experience. However, the negatives surrounding High on Life are significant and repeatedly mentioned across various reviews. Many critics, including But Why Tho? and Metro GameCentral, express disappointment with the combat system, describing it as simple, repetitive, and lacking in enemy variety. The gunplay is often criticized for feeling weak and underwhelming, as noted by NME and PC Gamer, who point out that enemies can feel like bullet sponges, making encounters frustrating rather than engaging. Furthermore, the game's linear level design and limited enemy types, as highlighted by Pure Xbox and Wccftech, contribute to a sense of monotony that detracts from the overall experience. In summary, the overall consensus among critics suggests that while High on Life offers some entertaining and humorous gameplay elements, it ultimately falls short due to its repetitive combat and lack of depth. Critics like IGN and Game Informer emphasize the game's chaotic nature and unique mechanics, but they also highlight the technical issues and design flaws that hinder enjoyment. The mixed reviews indicate that while the game has its moments of fun and creativity, it may not satisfy players looking for a robust and varied gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

High on Life's graphics receive mixed reviews; praised for vibrant, cartoonish visuals reminiscent of Rick and Morty, but criticized for low-quality environments and outdated designs. While some celebrate its creativity and unique aesthetic, many feel it falls short in execution and technical quality, leading to a divided consensus among critics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of High on Life have garnered a range of positive feedback from various critics, particularly for their vibrant and colorful aesthetic. Reviewers like Impulsegamer praised the attention to detail and the well-designed environments that burst with color, likening the visuals to a Saturday morning cartoon, which aligns well with the game's premise. TheGamer noted that the colorful and wacky graphics provide a refreshing break from the darker tones prevalent in many contemporary games. Critics such as Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected also highlighted the surreal and beautiful visuals, emphasizing how the game successfully translates the eccentricity of Rick and Morty into a three-dimensional experience. Additionally, many reviewers, including BaziCenter and SECTOR.sk, commended the unique designs of the environments and characters, asserting that the game effectively showcases Squanch Games' creativity. Conversely, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the graphics and visual design of High on Life. For instance, Multiplayer.it described the graphics as below expectations, criticizing the low-quality environments and poorly executed character models. Games.cz echoed this sentiment, labeling the graphics as outdated despite acknowledging some benefits of the stylization. Other critics, such as Power Unlimited and Shacknews, described the visuals as unimpressive, with some noting a lack of cohesion and depth in the world design. The Jimquisition mentioned that the universe feels flat and empty, indicating a missed opportunity for more engaging environments. Overall, the critiques suggest that while the game has its moments of visual appeal, many aspects fall short of the standards expected from a modern title. The overall consensus among critics reflects a divided opinion on the graphics and visual design of High on Life. While many reviewers appreciate the game's vibrant and unique aesthetic, citing its colorful environments and imaginative character designs, a significant number express disappointment regarding the execution and technical quality. Critics like IGN Italia and WellPlayed pointed out issues with level design and lighting that detract from the experience. Ultimately, while the game succeeds in creating a visually distinct world that captures the essence of its creators' previous works, it struggles with consistency and depth, leading to a mixed reception in terms of its graphics and visual design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

High on Life boasts a star-studded voice cast and unique sound design, winning praise for its humor and charm. However, the incessant chatter from the talking weapons, the Gatlians, frustrates many critics, leading to a consensus that the humor often falls flat. While the ambient soundtrack and immersive sound effects have their moments, the repetitiveness and lack of variation create a monotonous experience that detracts from enjoyment. Overall, the game’s audio elements evoke mixed reviews, with more criticism than acclaim on the sound front.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of High on Life have garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for the voice acting and the unique personalities of the talking weapons, known as Gatlians. Critics like KeenGamer and XboxEra highlighted the impressive voice cast, which includes well-known figures from the industry, contributing to the game's humor and charm. The soundtrack, crafted by TOBACCO, received some positive remarks for its ambient and lo-fi qualities, with critics such as COGconnected and TheXboxHub noting that it fits the game's quirky setting well. Additionally, the sound design was recognized for its immersive qualities, with some reviewers mentioning the effectiveness of sound effects during action sequences, as pointed out by Areajugones and Impulsegamer. However, the overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music is not overwhelmingly positive. Many critics expressed frustration with the incessant chatter from the Gatlians, which they found tiresome and repetitive. TheGamer and Games.cz noted that the humor often falls flat, labeling it as low-quality and B-tier. Critics like WellPlayed and Game Informer echoed these sentiments, describing the voice acting as grating and the combat music as forgettable or even frustrating. The lack of variation in the soundtrack was also a common complaint, with BaziCenter pointing out that only a couple of tracks play throughout most of the game, leading to monotony. In summary, while High on Life features a talented voice cast and some engaging sound design elements, the overall consensus among critics leans toward disappointment regarding the repetitiveness of the humor and music. Many reviewers, including PCGamesN and The Jimquisition, emphasized that the constant banter and audio assault detract from the experience rather than enhance it. The game’s sound design may succeed in moments, but the overwhelming nature of the dialogue and the lackluster soundtrack ultimately lead to a mixed reception, with critics like GamingTrend and God is a Geek acknowledging the potential for humor while also noting its shortcomings.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

High on Life features standout voice acting from comedians like Justin Roiland and JB Smoove, praised for adding personality and humor. However, critics are divided—while some laud the comedic timing, others find the dialogue excessive and irritating, describing it as tiresome and one-note. This polarizing element enhances the game's charm for some, but risks alienating players who find the humor overwhelming.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in High on Life has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting the talent and comedic timing of the cast. Several reviewers, including IGN, PC Invasion, and Xbox Tavern, praised the performances of notable comedians like Justin Roiland, Tim Robinson, and JB Smoove. Critics noted that the voice acting adds a distinct personality to the characters and enhances the comedic atmosphere of the game. For instance, GameSpot mentioned the amusing ad-libs and laughter from the voice actors, while PCGamesN acknowledged the cast's honest attempts at humor, even if not all jokes landed effectively. Overall, many reviewers found the voice acting to be a standout feature that contributes significantly to the game's charm. However, despite the praise, a considerable number of critics voiced dissatisfaction with the voice acting, describing it as excessive and at times irritating. Reviewers from NME, Wccftech, and PC Gamer criticized the dialogue for being overdone and lacking depth, with some noting that the incessant chatter became tiresome. TheGamer pointed out that the voice acting felt drawn out, leading to moments where players might put down their controllers. Additionally, Metro GameCentral remarked that the relentless swearing felt forced, contributing to a perception of the humor as one-note. Critics like WellPlayed and GameMAG echoed these sentiments, suggesting that while the variety of comedic talent is present, the execution often falls flat. The overall consensus among critics reflects a divided response to the voice acting in High on Life. While some reviewers, such as XboxEra and Atomix, found the performances to be excellent and fitting for the game's tone, many others highlighted the drawbacks of excessive dialogue and a lack of originality. This dichotomy suggests that while the voice acting is a significant aspect of the game that can enhance the experience, it may also alienate players who find the humor and delivery to be overwhelming or annoying. Ultimately, the voice acting serves as both a highlight and a potential stumbling block, making it a polarizing element of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

High on Life delivers a mixed technical performance across platforms. On Xbox Series X, a day-one patch improved stability and frame rates to 60fps, earning praise for smooth gameplay and a forgiving autosave system. However, persistent bugs like frozen enemies and critical path glitches remain problematic. On PC, high-end setups perform well, but issues like crashes and soft locks detract from the experience. Critics agree that while the game has potential, ongoing technical issues hinder overall player satisfaction, requiring further developer attention.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of High on Life has garnered a mix of opinions across different gaming platforms. On the Xbox Series X, several critics noted that the game runs smoothly at 60 frames per second, particularly after a day-one patch that addressed many initial issues. Critics like MondoXbox and TheXboxHub praised the game for its solid performance and minimal bugs post-patch. CGMagazine highlighted the forgiving checkpoint autosave system, which adds to the overall user experience, while NME found the game to run smoothly, reinforcing the notion that the game can deliver a satisfactory technical performance when functioning correctly. On PC, many reviewers reported a generally positive experience, with smooth performance on high-end setups and decent frame rates on the Steam Deck, as noted by Worth Playing and Twinfinite. However, the negatives surrounding High on Life cannot be overlooked. On Xbox Series X, numerous critics pointed out persistent bugs and glitches, including critical path doors not opening, frozen enemies, and broken prompts, as highlighted by Destructoid and Game Informer. While some issues were resolved with patches, others remained, leading to frustrations among players. Critics like GameMAG and Pure Xbox noted frame rate problems and crashes during prolonged gameplay sessions, indicating that the game is not without its technical shortcomings. On PC, issues such as constant crashes, soft locks, and minor bugs were reported by PCGamesN and Shacknews, suggesting that while the game performs well in many aspects, it still suffers from stability issues that detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that High on Life offers a mixed bag in terms of technical performance across platforms. While the Xbox Series X version has received praise for its improved stability post-patch, many reviewers still encountered bugs that affected gameplay. Critics like Game Informer and Generación Xbox acknowledged that although the game provides an engaging experience, it is marred by technical issues that need further addressing. On PC, while the game runs well on high-end systems, the presence of crashes and glitches indicates that optimization could be improved. The sentiment across platforms suggests that while High on Life has the potential for a solid experience, ongoing technical issues remain a significant hurdle that the developers need to address to enhance player satisfaction.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"High on Life" offers potential replay value through exploration and collectibles, appealing to completionists. However, critics warn of repetitive gameplay and lack of incentives for revisiting once the main story and side quests are completed. While some enjoy the game's structure, many find the humor and combat insufficient to justify multiple playthroughs, leading to a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

76%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of "High on Life" reveal a mix of potential positives that some critics appreciate. Several reviewers, such as Generación Xbox and IGN, highlight the game's structure that allows for exploration and the discovery of collectibles, suggesting that players can extend their gameplay beyond the main story. Generación Xbox notes that the game’s duration of around 12 hours can be lengthened through thorough exploration, while IGN mentions the presence of hidden loot boxes and backtracking to unlock new areas. Critics like MondoXbox also point out that the game includes over 200 collectibles and variations in missions based on dialogue choices, which could appeal to completionists and those who enjoy thorough exploration. However, the negative aspects of replay value are frequently noted across multiple reviews. Critics such as Game Informer and Checkpoint Gaming express concerns about the lack of variety in gameplay, particularly in the game's second half, which may lead to a feeling of repetitiveness. But Why Tho? echoes this sentiment by stating that the game offers no desirable rewards for exploration, and Vandal criticizes the incentives to revisit areas as unexciting. Additionally, several reviewers, including TheGamer and SECTOR.sk, point out that once the main story and side quests are completed, there is little motivation to replay the game, as the gameplay remains simplistic and does not evolve. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while "High on Life" offers some elements that could enhance its replay value, such as exploration and collectibles, these features are often overshadowed by repetitive gameplay and a lack of compelling incentives to revisit the game once completed. Critics like XboxAddict and Shacknews acknowledge the potential for replayability through achievements and optional side activities, but many others, including GameGrin and GamingTrend, highlight that the humor and combat may not be engaging enough to warrant multiple playthroughs. This mixed reception indicates that while there are enjoyable aspects to the game, they may not be sufficient to encourage a robust replay experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the overall verdict of "High on Life," it's important to highlight the positive aspects that some critics have noted. Several reviewers praised the game's unique humor and creative narrative, particularly those familiar with Justin Roiland's work, such as "Hobby Consolas," which described the game as enjoyable for fans of politically incorrect humor. "Digital Trends" also commended the game for its creativity, stating it has "deceptively deep gunplay" and a distinct visual style. Critics like "XboxAddict" and "Movies Games and Tech" emphasized that the game is a fantastic addition to the Xbox catalog, highlighting its engaging story, gameplay, and humor. Additionally, "CGMagazine" referred to it as a dark horse with impeccable quality and a genuinely funny narrative, suggesting that it could resonate well with mature players. However, the negatives surrounding "High on Life" are quite pronounced and echoed by many reviewers. Critics like "TheGamer" and "But Why Tho?" expressed their disappointment with the game's derivative gameplay, unfunny jokes, and unoriginal characters, labeling it as one of the most annoying experiences in years. "Game Informer" noted that while there are occasional glimmers of potential, the humor is tiresome, and the gameplay repetitive, indicating a lack of depth. "PC Gamer" echoed this sentiment, describing the game as underwhelming and mediocre, with excessive dialogue and flat shooting mechanics. The consensus among several critics is that the humor, which is a central pillar of the game, often fails to land, leading to a forgettable experience for many players. Overall, the critical reception of "High on Life" is decidedly mixed. While some reviewers found enjoyment in its unique style and humor, many others criticized its execution, particularly in terms of gameplay and comedic delivery. The game appears to cater primarily to fans of Justin Roiland and his brand of humor, as indicated by "Metro GameCentral" and "Guardian," who suggest that appreciation for the humor is crucial to enjoying the game. The overall consensus suggests that while "High on Life" has its merits, particularly in visual design and voice acting, its shortcomings in gameplay mechanics and humor make it a divisive title that may not appeal to a broader audience.

TL;DR

"High on Life" receives mixed reviews: praised for its unique humor and creative narrative by some, especially fans of Justin Roiland, but widely criticized for derivative gameplay, unfunny jokes, and lack of originality. While it shines in visual style and voice acting, many find it repetitive and forgettable, making it a hit-or-miss for gamers.

MONSTER

Reviews

121 reviews found

XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

Jan 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

High on Life is a fantastic addition to the Xbox catalog, recommended for its story, gameplay, and humor.

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XboxEra

Xbox Series X

Dec 12, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

High On Life is absolutely fantastic and highly recommended.

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CGMagazine

Xbox Series X

Jan 3, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

High on Life is a dark horse, console-exclusive game with impeccable quality and a genuinely funny narrative. It is recommended for mature players and a good addition to Xbox Game Pass.

KeenGamer

Dec 20, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

High On Life is a fun and satisfying game that successfully combines comedy with a serious gamer story. It offers solid gameplay mechanics, visually appealing graphics, and enjoyable voice acting. The game is recommended for fans of Justin Roiland and those looking for a humorous shooter experience.

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ZTGD

Xbox Series X

Dec 14, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

High on Life is a fantastic experience with a great story, enjoyable gameplay, impressive sound design, and humor. The technical issues are a drawback, but overall it is a wonderful game worth playing.

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Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

Dec 21, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised for its style, character, and humor, and is recommended for Xbox Game Pass subscribers.

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PC Invasion

Dec 12, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

High on Life is an excellent comedy game with a higher budget than most. It offers a compelling story, satisfying gameplay, and exceptional presentation. Recommended for fans of Justin Roiland's humor and those looking for a good first-person shooter.

GameSpace

Jan 23, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

High on Life is a humorous shooting game that will appeal to fans of Rick and Morty and those who enjoy hilarious gunfights. However, if you don't like the humor of the series, the jokes may bore you. The game has already gained popularity among Game Pass subscribers and on Steam.

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GameGrin

Dec 19, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

High On Life is a fun and humorous FPS that lacks some technical polish and optional goals, but provides an entertaining joyride around the galaxy.

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Gaming Age

Xbox Series X

Dec 16, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is a solid shooter with a unique visual style, fun gameplay, and humorous storytelling. It is worth checking out, especially since it is available through Xbox's Game Pass program.

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