It Takes Two - An Acclaimed Co-op Adventure Game for Couples

Overview of It Takes Two

It Takes Two is a co-op action-adventure platformer video game developed by Hazelight Studios and published by Electronic Arts. It was released for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S in March 2021. The game follows a divorcing couple Cody and May who are transformed into dolls by a magical book in order to save their fracturing relationship.

Gameplay and Features

It Takes Two is designed purely for two player co-op. Each player controls one of the characters, Cody or May, as they work together to overcome obstacles and challenges. The game utilizes a variety of different mechanics and genre shifts to keep the gameplay fresh and interesting. Some segments are platforming challenges, others focus on action and combat, while some provide puzzles for players to solve together.

The game highlights the importance of teamwork and communication. The two characters have different abilities that complement each other and help create innovative gameplay opportunities. For example, Cody can wield a hammer while May has a nail gun. The game is filled with imaginative contraptions and scenarios that require the two players to work together.

It Takes Two also features a friendship mechanic. Over the course of the game, players can build up their friendship meter by working together and helping each other out. A higher friendship score will unlock bonus content and abilities. This encourages collaborative play.

Story and Themes

The narrative focuses on Cody and May's crumbling marriage. Their daughter Rose wishes for them to reconnect, bringing them into the fantastical doll world. Each level is themed around an issue in Cody and May's relationship, like lack of communication or intimacy. By working together to traverse these metaphors, the two slowly remember why they fell in love in the first place.

It Takes Two explores relationships in a meaningful way. It studies how people drift apart over time and lose the ability to understand each other. But it also shows that with effort and communication, many problems can be resolved. The game emphasizes qualities like trust, cooperation, and compassion.

Critical Reception

It Takes Two received widespread critical acclaim upon release. It currently holds a Metacritic score of 88/100 for the PlayStation 5 version. Reviewers consistently praised the innovative co-op gameplay, plethora of variety, and thoughtful storytelling.

Many outlets declared it one of the best games of 2021. It won Game of the Year awards from The Game Awards, DICE Awards, and the Italian Video Game Awards. Josef Fares, founder of Hazelight Studios, is renowned for crafting narratively driven co-op experiences.

Sales and Popularity

It Takes Two has sold over 5 million copies across all platforms as of January 2022. It has proven a major commercial success for Hazelight Studios and Electronic Arts. The word-of-mouth buzz and critical acclaim has led to strong ongoing sales numbers.

It has also become a popular streaming and Let's Play title. The co-op gameplay lends itself well to entertaining online content. Many streamers and content creators have uploaded playthroughs of the game. This has helped raise awareness and visibility for It Takes Two.

Why You Should Play It Takes Two

It Takes Two stands out as a wholly unique co-op experience. Here are just some of the reasons why it's a must-play:

• Innovative game mechanics - Each level brings new mechanics and gameplay styles to master.
• Fantastic variety - The game seamlessly shifts between platforms, puzzles, action, and more.
• Thoughtful storytelling - It tells a mature, metaphorical story about relationships.
• Beautiful visuals - Vibrant, varied environments with intricate details.
• Emphasis on cooperation - You must work together to overcome challenges.
• Playful humor - Charming, funny writing that balances the serious themes.
• Accessibility options - Accommodates a wide variety of players.

It Takes Two is held up as an exemplar of the co-op genre. If you are looking for a game to play with your significant other, family member, or friend, It Takes Two offers meaningful fun for two players.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there single player?

No, It Takes Two is exclusively two player co-op. You cannot play solo.

What platforms is it on?

It is available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam and Origin.

Do both players need a copy?

No. With the Friends Pass feature, only one player needs to own a copy. The other can download a free trial version.

Is there violence/mature content?

There is cartoon violence and some mature relationship themes. It is rated T for Teen.

How long is the game?

It Takes Two takes around 15-20 hours to fully complete co-op.

FAQs

Is there online co-op?

Yes, It Takes Two supports online co-op so you can play with friends online.

What is the Friend's Pass?

The Friend's Pass allows someone without the full game to download a limited trial version to play co-op with a friend who owns the full game.

What players can join online co-op?

Online co-op is limited to only friends who are on your platform's friends list. No matchmaking with random players.

Does progress carry between platforms?

No, there is no cross-platform or cross-generation progress transfer available.

Is there split-screen co-op?

Split-screen co-op is only available on console versions, not on PC.