It Takes Two

It Takes Two is a genre-bending platform adventure that redefines cooperative gameplay with its innovative mechanics and heartfelt storytelling. Developed by Hazelight Studios, this game follows the journey of Cody and May, a couple on the brink of divorce who are magically transformed into dolls and must work together to return to their human forms.

🔥 What is It Takes Two?

It Takes Two is an action-adventure game with platforming elements specifically designed for two players, available on PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Nintendo Switch. The game can only be experienced through either local split-screen or online cooperative play, making it a perfect choice for couples, friends, or family members looking for a shared gaming experience.

The story centers around Cody and May, who must navigate a fantastical world filled with creative challenges while working on their fractured relationship under the guidance of the love guru Dr. Hakim. As they journey from their garden shed back to their house, they encounter extraordinary environments ranging from outer space to tiny nightclubs housed in air conditioning vents.

A Unique Co-op Experience

What sets It Takes Two apart is its Friend’s Pass feature, which allows you to invite a friend to play the entire game with you for free. This commitment to shared experiences reinforces the game’s core theme: we’re better together.

👉 Features of It Takes Two

Constantly Evolving Gameplay

It Takes Two never lets players settle into a routine. Each level introduces new mechanics and abilities that both characters must master to progress. One moment you might be steering a giant pencil around a connect-the-dots picture, and the next you could be casting spells as a wizard or engaging in a Street Fighter-style showdown with a squirrel.

Complementary Character Abilities

Throughout the adventure, Cody and May receive different abilities that complement each other perfectly. For example, Cody might throw nails into walls to create rungs for May to swing between with her hammer. Later, May might use a water gun to soak soil where Cody can plant himself and bloom into a flower with petals serving as platforms.

Metaphorical Storytelling

The game brilliantly weaves its narrative and gameplay together, creating a metaphorical experience where the challenges Cody and May face directly reflect the issues in their relationship. This integration of story and mechanics creates a uniquely meaningful adventure.

Gameplay

The core platforming in It Takes Two feels responsive and precise, with jump, double-jump, and air-dash abilities that allow for excellent control. Beyond these basics, the game constantly introduces new gameplay styles – from isometric dungeon crawling to piloting tiny planes through treetops.

Each section requires genuine cooperation between players. You’ll need to communicate, coordinate timing, and understand how your abilities complement your partner’s. The game features virtually no repetition, keeping the experience fresh throughout its approximately 10-12 hour runtime.

Pros and Cons

✔️ Pros

• Innovative co-op mechanics that constantly evolve throughout the game
• Responsive controls making platforming feel precise and enjoyable
• Creative level design with environments ranging from magical snow globes to buzzing nightclubs
• Humorous writing with genuinely funny moments and characters
• Seamless genre-shifting that keeps gameplay fresh and engaging

❌ Cons

• Length may be challenging for busy adults to coordinate approximately 12 hours of co-op play
• Some sections feel overextended and could benefit from tighter pacing
• Occasional imbalance in player enjoyment when one character gets more exciting abilities
• Performance issues on Switch with graphical downgrades and additional loading screens
• Split-screen only format means it cannot be played solo

It Takes Two delivers a remarkable cooperative experience that pushes the boundaries of interactive storytelling while providing consistently entertaining gameplay. Whether you’re kicking gangster squirrels, piloting underpants, or DJing at a nightclub, this adventure offers a perfect blend of challenge, creativity, and heart.