Overview
- It Takes Two is an innovative cooperative game that focuses on repairing the relationship of a couple through intricate puzzles.
- There are various other adult-themed co-op titles that provide unique gaming experiences.
- Many of these games emphasize teamwork and feature heartfelt narratives along with original gameplay mechanics.
It Takes Two, developed by Hazelight Studios, stands out as one of the premier cooperative games of the 2020s. Unlike many titles that simply incorporate multiplayer features, this game specifically necessitates it; there is no single-player mode. Players must collaborate with a friend or partner to experience the story, a bold decision that enhances gameplay by emphasizing teamwork and communication.
The narrative follows a couple on the brink of divorce, which creates emotional turmoil for their young daughter. In a whimsical turn of events, both parents find themselves inhabiting the bodies of their child’s dolls. This fantastical setup propels them into a journey filled with imaginative challenges, fostering not only cooperation but also personal growth.
While captivating co-op games are limited, several other titles can provide similar enjoyment. These games, often involving platforming, puzzles, or adventures, are designed to strengthen cooperation between players, offering moments of bonding and fun. Below, we highlight some of the top co-op games like It Takes Two.
As of January 29, 2025: Updates and Upcoming Games
The gaming landscape continues to evolve, with many anticipated titles set to launch by the end of 2025. We have revisited our list of upcoming games that deserve attention.
A Way Out
Hazelight’s Other Co-Op Gem
As the only other title from Hazelight, A Way Out is an immediate recommendation for fans of It Takes Two. Released in 2018, it similarly relies on cooperative gameplay and demands two players to engage with the story. Both titles showcase engaging puzzles and character-driven narratives, ensuring a rich experience for anyone who loved It Takes Two.
However, A Way Out presents a completely different story. It follows the brutal journey of two convicts plotting an escape from prison. This darker premise shifts the tone entirely, providing a contrasting narrative dynamic to that of It Takes Two.
Brothers: A Tale Of Two Sons Remake
Better Experienced Solo, Yet Co-Op Is Available
Before founding Hazelight, Josef Fares crafted Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons alongside Starbreeze. This poignant adventure focuses on the journey of two siblings tasked with finding a cure for their ailing father. While primarily a single-player experience that emphasizes dual control of both characters, the narrative shares emotional depth akin to It Takes Two.
A remake released in 2024 added co-op gameplay, allowing friends to experience this moving story together. However, it is recommended to first enjoy the game solo for a more profound understanding of its emotional themes.
Knights And Bikes
A Journey Filled with Childlike Wonder
Knights and Bikes is a charming adventure that blends suburban themes with fantasy. It revolves around two girls exploring their town in pursuit of a treasure, driven by imagination and a sense of adventure. Although their dynamic differs from the couple in It Takes Two, their friendship is both relatable and heartfelt.
This title also emphasizes cooperation, featuring puzzles and combat elements, with upgrades like customizable bikes enhancing the experience. Although it includes content for solo play, it is primarily designed for co-op engagements.
Moving Out 1 & 2
Where Coordination is Essential
In Moving Out, players must efficiently maneuver items into a truck within a time limit, promoting strategic teamwork. With unique challenges and replayable levels, this game can accommodate up to four players for a lively and chaotic experience centered around cooperation.
Kirby And The Forgotten Land
Nintendo’s Delightful 3D Platformer
Kirby and the Forgotten Land offers a bright and entertaining experience that draws parallels with It Takes Two. This 3D platformer invites players to join Kirby and Bandana Waddle Dee in action-packed adventures against colorful foes, reminiscent of past Mario games.
While Kirby retains a solo focus, the co-op aspect adds a fun layer as players can team up, albeit with Bandana Waddle Dee acting more as a support character.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Crafted Specifically for Co-Op Excitement
Super Mario Bros. Wonder marks an exciting return for Mario in a beautifully polished 2D adventure that supports up to four-player cooperative gameplay. Players can choose from various characters, each contributing to a friendly yet competitive environment.
This title prioritizes accessibility, featuring options for young gamers to enjoy the experience without feeling overwhelmed. It might not delve into deep narratives like It Takes Two, but both games promise visually stunning worlds brimming with charm.
Phogs!
Two Heads on the Same Dog(s)
Phogs! offers a whimsical experience where players control a duo of dogs joined at the belly. The game shines in its cooperative mechanics where effective communication is essential to solve puzzles and progress through vibrant levels.
This title is light on story but excels in its unique premise and engaging co-op gameplay, making it a delightful option for fans of interactive challenges.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge
A Throwback to Beat ‘Em Up Classics
Shredder’s Revenge provides a nostalgic experience with its beat ’em up gameplay, reminiscent of the ’90s games that appealed to many. Although distinct from It Takes Two, it’s another excellent co-op experience featuring seven playable characters, each with unique abilities.
This title engages players to work asynchronously and collaboratively through challenging stages, ideal for fans of action-packed adventures.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
One of the Top Co-Op Platformers
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze ranks as a premier title on the Wii U and now on the Switch. It supports cooperative gameplay where players can jump into the vibrant world of Donkey Kong, filled with challenging levels and delightful graphics.
The game allows for both single-player and collaborative fun, with additional characters available to assist players throughout the adventure.
As Dusk Falls
An Engaging Family Drama
As Dusk Falls, developed by Interior Night, utilizes the interactive drama format to explore family dynamics, resonating with the themes found in It Takes Two. This game intricately weaves storytelling and cooperative gameplay, making it an engaging option for those who appreciate narratives focused on relationships.
Nikoderiko: The Magical World
A Modern Platformer Echoing the Classics
Nikoderiko: The Magical World is an engaging modern platformer inspired by the classics. Players navigate through a colorful realm while undertaking various challenges. Although its gameplay differs from It Takes Two, the shared focus on adventure and unique mechanics makes it a great companion title.
KeyWe
Adorable Co-Op Experience
KeyWe positions players as two kiwi birds managing a busy post office. This cooperative puzzle-platformer thrives on communication and teamwork, making it perfect for pairs seeking a light-hearted yet engaging challenge.
Grounded
A Comically Shrunken Adventure
Grounded takes a unique premise with players shrunk down and placed in a backyard filled with myriad dangers. This survival game emphasizes resource acquisition and building, but also supports cooperative gameplay, allowing friends to face challenges together.
Sackboy: A Big Adventure
A Solid Platformer with Co-Op Enjoyment
Sackboy: A Big Adventure maintains the spirit of the beloved LittleBigPlanet franchise while introducing players to a vibrant, 2.5D platforming experience. It supports both local and online co-op, inviting friends to tackle exclusive and standard missions together.
Biped
A Fun Adventure with Purpose-Built Co-Op Levels
Biped features a unique gameplay mechanic where players control a character using two analog sticks to simulate walking. Its levels are designed to enhance collaborative play, resulting in a fun, albeit short, adventure experience that intrigues and delights.
Cuphead
A Challenging Boss Rush Delight
Cuphead, known for its striking 1930s cartoon aesthetic, offers an unforgiving yet rewarding experience. When played cooperatively, expectations are elevated as bosses become even more daunting, challenging players to think quickly and strategize effectively.
Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
Engaging Family-Friendly Fun
Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga serves as a generalized recommendation for all Lego fans, allowing for drop-in/drop-out co-op gameplay across multiple Star Wars sagas. The blend of exploration, humor, and action makes it a great option for families.
Guacamelee!
An Outstanding Indie Action Experience
Guacamelee! mixes a vibrant art style with accessible gameplay, captivating players with smooth combat mechanics. Its offering of co-op features encourages both casual and serious gamers to team up for hours of enjoyable exploration and hidden secrets.
Rayman Legends
Stunning Visuals and Engaging Gameplay
Rayman Legends excels in cooperative gameplay, with fluid mechanics that encourage players to keep moving and timing their actions impeccably. The variety of level designs keeps it fresh, making for an exhilarating platforming journey best enjoyed with friends.
Unravel 2
A Whimsical Puzzle-Platformer
Unravel 2 invites players on a journey with two connected yarn dolls who must work together to solve puzzles and navigate enchanting environments. This title emphasizes teamwork, making it a fantastic post-It Takes Two option for dedicated players.
Lovers In A Dangerous Spacetime
Ideal for Local Cooperative Play
Lovers In A Dangerous Spacetime provides an exciting cooperative gameplay experience as players defend their spaceship from waves of enemies. While the mechanics emphasize coordination, its lighthearted approach makes it perfect for casual gaming sessions with friends.
Haven
Exploring a New World as a Couple
Haven follows a couple navigating a beautiful yet hostile planet in search of a new home. Players must balance resource management and combat while exploring the intricacies of Yu and Kay’s relationship, akin to the emotional themes found in It Takes Two.
Trine 4: The Nightmare Prince
A Beloved Co-Op Series
Trine 4: The Nightmare Prince showcases a beautiful blend of platforming and puzzles with a captivating story. Players can team up in various gameplay styles, creating an atmosphere that emphasizes teamwork and strategy, reminiscent of It Takes Two‘s engaging narrative.
A Hat In Time
Charming 3D Platformer
A Hat in Time stole hearts upon its release in 2017, gathering acclaim for its charming gameplay. While initially lacking a co-op mode, it has since introduced local split-screen options that invite players to tackle its imaginative world together, further enriching the cooperative experience.
We Were Here
Solve Puzzles Together
The We Were Here series capitalizes on cooperative gameplay, launching players into intricate scenarios where communication is essential for escape. The original is free, allowing newcomers to test the waters before diving deeper into its sequels with expanded gameplay options.
Cat Quest 2
Unexpected Companions
Cat Quest 2 combines charm with co-op gameplay, following a cat and dog duo on their quest to protect their kingdoms. Although its gameplay differs from It Takes Two, the cooperative foundation makes it a delightful addition for fans who enjoy fun and casual adventures.
TimeSplitters 2 And Future Perfect
Time-Hopping Co-Op Fun
TimeSplitters 2 and Future Perfect provide a distinctly different gameplay experience from It Takes Two. Both titles, however, excel in their co-op modes that feature varied locations, expansive levels, and fast-paced action, ensuring a fulfilling experience together.
Portal 2
Ingenious Cooperative Puzzles
Portal 2 offers a compelling cooperative experience that challenges players to solve clever puzzles utilizing portals. While the single-player campaign is separate, the co-op mode introduces unique levels that require exceptional teamwork, merging creativity and strategy much like It Takes Two.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Co-Op Titles
While co-op games are a niche segment of the broader gaming industry, there are promising upcoming releases that may capture the spirit of It Takes Two.
- Popucom – This multiplayer game will engage up to four players in a colorful adventure filled with platforming, teamwork, and match-3 puzzles.
- Little Nightmares 3 – Featuring cooperative gameplay for the first time in its series, this game promises an intriguing blend of puzzles and stealth in a horror framework.
- Biped 2 – Building upon its predecessor, Biped 2 emphasizes collaborative challenges and is set to delight fans of the original.
Leave a Reply