Squanch Games

Squanch Games is an American independent game development studio known for its comedic, irreverent, and narrative?driven titles. Founded in 2016 by Justin Roiland and Tanya Watson, the studio built a reputation for blending off?beat humor with colorful worlds, unconventional characters, and accessible gameplay. Squanch Games focuses on creating experiences that feel playful, chaotic, and personality?driven, often leaning into improvisation and absurdity as core creative pillars.

History and Founding

Originally launched as Squanchtendo, the studio rebranded to Squanch Games shortly after its founding. Justin Roiland, co?creator of Rick and Morty, brought his signature comedic style and voice acting talent to the company, while Tanya Watson contributed industry experience from her time at Epic Games. Together, they set out to build games that embraced humor, experimentation, and player?driven chaos.

The studio’s early work focused on VR projects, exploring how comedy and interactivity could merge in immersive environments. Over time, Squanch Games expanded into traditional console and PC development, maintaining its comedic identity while reaching a broader audience.

Notable Projects

• Accounting+ – A surreal VR comedy adventure created in collaboration with Crows Crows Crows. The game features bizarre scenarios, dark humor, and Roiland’s signature improvisational style.
• Trove Saves the Universe – A comedic action?platformer where players control a chair?bound protagonist guided by a foul?mouthed purple alien. The game blends puzzle?solving, combat, and absurd storytelling.
• High on Life – The studio’s breakout hit, this first?person shooter features talking weapons, alien worlds, and a narrative packed with humor and improvisation. The game became a major success on Xbox Game Pass and introduced Squanch Games to a mainstream audience.

Creative Style and Philosophy

Squanch Games is defined by its commitment to humor, improvisation, and character?driven storytelling. The studio embraces chaotic energy, unexpected dialogue, and surreal scenarios, often breaking traditional game design conventions in favor of comedic timing and player reactions. Their games prioritize personality over realism, creating experiences that feel distinct within the indie and AA space.

Animation, voice acting, and expressive character design play a major role in the studio’s identity. Many of their titles feature dynamic performances, ad?libbed lines, and exaggerated visual styles that reinforce the comedic tone.

Reception and Impact

While Squanch Games’ titles often divide critics due to their unconventional humor, the studio has cultivated a passionate fanbase that appreciates its bold, comedic approach. High on Life in particular brought widespread attention, becoming one of the most?played Game Pass releases of its year and earning praise for its creativity and world?building.

Challenges and Changes

In 2023, Justin Roiland departed the studio following public controversies, leading Squanch Games to restructure and continue development under new leadership. Despite the transition, the studio remains committed to producing comedic, character?driven games with a strong creative identity.

Future and Vision

Squanch Games continues to explore new ideas rooted in humor, expressive characters, and unconventional storytelling. With a growing audience and a clear creative voice, the studio aims to expand its catalog while maintaining the playful, chaotic spirit that defines its work.