New PC Game Hijinks High From Laid-Off Xbox Developers Challenges You To Become A High School Menace
Sackbird Studios, an independent game development team formed by former employees of ZeniMax Online Studios, has unveiled its latest project: Hijinks High. The studio was established after Microsoft canceled Project Blackbird, an ambitious MMO that was previously in development, and laid off its staff.
The game is an online co-op experience where players can team up with up to five others to "cause as much ruckus as possible" during a day at a high school. The ultimate goal is to become the school's menace, engaging in chaotic and humorous activities that push the boundaries of typical high school antics.
Players will be able to take part in randomized missions, such as taking smelly dumps in the bathroom or setting up booby traps. Additionally, they can accept dares that may result in bodily injuries requiring a trip to the hospital. These elements add a layer of unpredictability and absurdity to the gameplay.
One of the unique aspects of Hijinks High is its focus on managing bodily needs. Players must deal with going pee, managing concussions, and handling stomachaches. According to the game's description, players can "stack illnesses and make huge parts of the school uninhabitable, or manage your resources wisely to avoid that warm, sticky feeling."
Currently, Hijinks High is available to wishlist on Steam and the Epic Games Store. However, the game does not yet have a release date or pricing information. Fans of the studio's previous work will be eager to see what they have in store next.
When Sackbird Studios was first announced in October 2025, the developer stated that it was self-funded for multiple years without the help of outside investors. In a statement, Sackbird Studios' chief creative officer, David Worley, said, “After years in AAA, we wanted the freedom to take smart risks without waiting for a greenlight or chasing quarterly targets. We’re fully employee-owned and funded, which means we only answer to people who are passionate about games.”
The studio's goal is to create “bold, character-driven experiences free from corporate compromises.” This philosophy is evident in their latest project, which embraces a more chaotic and humorous approach to game design.
The developers were previously working on Project Blackbird at ZeniMax Online Studios, which was described as a cross between Cyberpunk 2077 and Destiny. Microsoft canceled the game in 2025 as part of a larger round of layoffs and budget cuts. Following the cancellation, ZeniMax Online Studios boss Matt Firor resigned. He had previously stated that Project Blackbird was the game he had been waiting his entire career to make.
