The Grinch is back, and he's trading his sleigh for Rocket Skates. Outright Games and developer Casual Brothers, in partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises, announced The Grinch 2: Saving Christmas on Thursday, a full 3D platforming sequel that flips the character's entire premise.
The original 1957 story and the 2023 side-scrolling game were about one thing: ruining Christmas. This time, the Grinch wants to build the most spectacular tree Who-ville has ever seen.
Players collect ornaments, master gadgets, and decorate Who-ville Square across four 3D worlds: the Grinch's Cave, Mt. Crumpit, Who-wood, and Who-ville itself. The sequel launches September 18 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PC via Steam.
Gadgets define the gameplay shift. The Grinch wields a Snowball Maker to freeze enemies, Rocket Skates for speed, and a Jetpack to reach high platforms.
Each level introduces environmental hazards: falling stalactites in the cave, giant rolling snowballs on Mt. Crumpit, and hovering platforms over Who-ville.
Local co-op returns from the first game. A second player controls Max, the Grinch's dog, helping solve puzzles, outsmart mice and bats, and collect decorations. The first game, 2023's The Grinch: Christmas Adventures, also featured local co-op with up to two players controlling the Grinch and Max.
"The Grinch 2: Saving Christmas builds on everything fans loved about the first game, expanding into a vibrant 3D world full of festive fun and surprises," Outright Games CEO Robin Flodin said in a statement. "It's a joyful experience designed to bring families together and celebrate the spirit of Christmas."
The announcement arrives roughly three years after the original game and 68 years after Dr. Seuss first introduced the character. The 2023 title was a 2.5D side-scroller; the sequel's jump to full 3D platforming with local co-op marks a significant technical and design upgrade from the first outing.
Outright Games, which specializes in licensed family-friendly titles, is betting that a reformed Grinch with a jetpack and a cooperative dog can resonate with a generation raised on 3D platformers. September 18 will tell.
