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Review of High on Life on Nintendo Switch

by Hemal Harris Hemal Harris photo May 2025
Cover image of High on Life on Switch
Gamefings Score: 7
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 06 May 2025
Genre: First-Person Shooter / Action-Adventure / Metroidvania
Developer: Squanch Games
Publisher: Squanch Games

Introduction

If you've ever wanted to chat with your firearms (and let's be real, who hasn't?), look no further than 'High on Life.' This quirky FPS is laden with laughter, colorful visuals, and armed with an arsenal of Gatlians who might or might not have had too much caffeine. We're diving into the challenges and skills required in this game, so grab your electro-mechanical butter knife (they call it Knifey) and let's get slicing through the details.

Gameplay

At the beginning, it's important to note that 'High on Life' is more than just another shooter; it's packed with challenges that make even seasoned gamers' palms sweaty. You think you can just waltz in, guns blazing, right? Wrong! You're going to need some serious finesse to get by. Players must use their abilities effectively, wielding sentient weapons uniquely designed for various situations. Each Gatlian talks back, offering comedic commentary and gameplay tips - yes, even your gun can roast your tactically poor decisions. Grab Kenny, the star Gatlian, and let's get ready to off some galactic baddies! As you scour through the game seeking boss targets and nefarious cartel members, combat isn't just about pulling the trigger; it's more about strategic thinking and problem-solving. For instance, the slew of weapon types provides diverse playstyles: some guns love to burst, while others excel in precision. Evading attacks at crucial moments requires fast reflexes and an eye for dodging enemy bullets while sticking a few of your own. Combine that with clever weapon switching during high-octane shootouts, and you'll soon realize you're part of an intergalactic dance-off - where the wrong step can lead to your juicy demise. The gameplay isn't limited to relentless shooting; let's not forget traversal and platforming! Grabbing ledges and leaping across gaps is a necessary skill, as players will need to tap into gravitational mechanics and grapple to specific points. Expect to puzzle-solve and climb your way through challenges that will force you to master the zipping mechanics - they're not just there for cool effects! One key aspect of gameplay is unlocking new areas with your upgraded weapons and abilities - the solid Metroidvania elements make this exploration both necessary and rewarding. Also, do not underestimate the significance of utilizing the Knifey in defeating foes and getting across the terrain. Timing is everything. Assessing enemy movements, timing your grappling hook, and nailing those attack sequences can prove to be tougher than a rock in a blender at times. Luckily, the game doesn't shy away from offering upgrades and tools to support your journey, making each escape or ambush dramatically satisfying as you slice and dice your way through each level. The game keeps you on your toes, demanding smart gameplay, swift reflexes, and above all, adaptability. Failure isn't merely a setback, but an opportunity to learn how to wield your tools more effectively and to laugh at yourself a little (or a lot).

Graphics

Graphically, 'High on Life' takes the quirky art style to another level. Imagine if you took a Saturday morning cartoon, sprinkled in some psychedelic colors, and said, 'This should be a video game!' The cel-shaded graphics pop wonderfully on the Switch, making it a feast for the eyes, especially when your surroundings are awash with vibrant alien landscapes. Environments teem with character, featuring lush jungles, ruined cities, and colorful intergalactic metropolises that feel like they were pulled from a cartoon dream. Each character, from your talkative gun pals to the bazillion enemies trying to wreck your day, is animated with comedic flair that drives home the absurdity of your mission. However, on the technical side, it's worth mentioning that players might notice frame-rate hiccups or graphical glitches - this doesn't detract significantly from the overall experience, but they're notable. The graphics maintain a certain charm, and the style can help carry some technical shortcomings. But hey, if you can't laugh at a Gatlian bursting into laughter while being shot at, can you even call yourself a gamer?

Conclusion

'High on Life' impresses with its blend of wit, tongue-in-cheek humor, and a unique take on the FPS genre. It's a whirlwind of zany hijinks and engaging gameplay mechanics that requires a solid combination of strategic thinking, reflexes, and puzzle-solving skills. Despite its technical gremlins, this game is ideal for those looking for an alternate reality where you can befriend talking guns and slash through nonsense with a sentient knife. If you're up for a vibrant romp through relentless combat and peculiar challenges, strap in and prepare for a trip that is both hilarious and absolutely lunatic in spirit. Just remember to keep your wits about you - in this universe, the enemy may be silly, but they sure won't go down easily!

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