Overview
- It Takes Two is a standout cooperative game that navigates the journey of a couple reconciling their differences through creative puzzles.
- Alternative games offer equally engaging adult-oriented co-op experiences.
- These titles often emphasize a heartfelt narrative and innovative gameplay mechanics suited for collaborative play.
It Takes Two, developed by Hazelight Studios, has quickly established itself as the premier co-op game of the 2020s. Unlike many multiplayer games that offer both solo and co-op modes, It Takes Two mandates cooperation, requiring two players to engage in its narrative. This unique decision enhances the design to focus solely on two-player collaboration. While some may question this approach, the commitment to exclusive co-op gameplay allows for thrilling, synchronized experiences that can only be derived from joint efforts.
The narrative unfolds around a couple facing a crumbling marriage, which significantly impacts their young daughter. In a fantastical twist, they find themselves inhabiting their daughter’s dolls, leading to a wildly imaginative journey that introduces new gameplay mechanics at every turn.
Although exceptional co-op experiences are somewhat limited, a range of games featuring captivating puzzles, platforming, or adventure elements can fill the void for fans of It Takes Two. This exploration emphasizes connection and teamwork, striving to unite players as they traverse various challenges together. Below, we delve into some of the most captivating co-op games reminiscent of It Takes Two.
Updated January 1, 2025 by Mark Sammut: As the new year unfolds, anticipation grows for more exciting co-op titles set to release, poised to rival the achievements of It Takes Two. Featured in the following sections are both notable upcoming releases and a fresh recommendation from an October 2024 platformer. Explore the links to navigate through these segments.
A Way Out
Hazelight’s Other Co-Op Masterpiece
As the only other game developed by Hazelight, A Way Out is a natural choice for anyone who enjoyed It Takes Two. This 2018 title also builds upon co-op gameplay, necessitating the collaboration of two players throughout the adventure. Similar to its successor, players can expect a mix of puzzles, engaging mini-games, and character-focused storytelling, making it a delightful experience for those fond of the previous title.
Despite sharing some game mechanics, A Way Out presents a distinct narrative that diverges in both content and tone. Centered on two inmates plotting an escape from prison, the story’s structure reflects its intense setting, characterized by morally ambiguous characters and relationships that differ vastly from the couple’s dynamics in It Takes Two.
This balance of similarities and differences renders both games a complementary pairing, each enhancing the emotional and gameplay experience of the other.
Brothers: A Tale Of Two Sons Remake
Better Solo, But Co-Op Is An Option & The Story Is Powerful
Before founding Hazelight, Josef Fares collaborated with Starbreeze on Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons. This powerful adventure showcases two siblings journeying to find a cure for their ailing father, emphasizing their bond as they navigate challenges that test and strengthen their relationship. Notably, this title was originally designed as a single-player experience, compelling players to control both siblings concurrently, which injects complexity into its gameplay.
The 2024 remake introduces enhanced graphics and refined controls alongside an added co-op feature, allowing players to team up for the first time on platforms outside of the original’s Switch port. While experiencing Brothers in co-op mode enhances its charm, it is recommended to first appreciate the game as a solo experience, with cooperative gameplay serving as an exciting bonus.
Knights And Bikes
Child-Like Wonder
Knights and Bikes blends suburban nostalgia with fantasy, chronicling the adventure of two girls exploring their town in search of hidden treasures. Though different in dynamic from the couple in It Takes Two, Nessa and Demelza’s relationship remains relatable and heartfelt.
Embarking on an imaginative quest, the game incorporates puzzles, combat, and exploration, addressing mature themes such as grief and loss while remaining accessible across various ages. Aiming to spotlight teamwork, Knights and Bikes flourishes in cooperative gameplay, inviting players to partake in a whimsical journey alongside friends.
Moving Out 1 & 2
Coordination Is Key
In Moving Out, teams are rewarded for swiftly transporting goods to a moving truck. Featuring multiple levels, this game promises extensive replayability through special tasks that unlock after each level is completed. With the capacity for up to four players, Moving Out embodies chaotic fun and is grounded in strategic planning and coordination, making for an engaging experience.
Kirby And The Forgotten Land
Nintendo’s Charming 3D Platformer
For those seeking a delightful game as vibrant as It Takes Two, Kirby and the Forgotten Land is an excellent choice. This enchanting adventure features Kirby alongside Bandana Waddle Dee, combating a lively array of foes in a beautiful 3D environment reminiscent of platforming classics.
While Kirby’s games are known for multiplayer experiences, this title primarily offers a single-player journey complemented by cooperative gameplay. Bandana Waddle Dee plays a supporting role, lacking the expansive abilities of Kirby, but still adds a fun dynamic to the gameplay. Despite this, the 3D adventure excels as a cooperative platformer and stands out in its own right.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Made For Co-Op
Super Mario Bros. Wonder stands out as a polished and enchanting addition to Nintendo’s iconic franchise, returning with a new 2D adventure after a decade. Encouraging 4-player cooperative play, the game allows friends to take on various stages utilizing a diverse roster of characters, including fan favorites like Mario, Luigi, and Peach.
True to its trademark accessibility, Wonder facilitates a beginner-friendly approach, featuring adjustable invincibility options to ease new players into the vibrant world. While It Takes Two and Super Mario Bros. Wonder possess contrasting narratives, both captivate players with their stunning visual appeal and engaging gameplay.
Phogs!
Two Heads On The Same Dog(s)
Phogs! introduces a novel co-op experience wherein two players control a single, stitched-together dog duo, paralleling the whimsical charm found in It Takes Two. Players tackle enchanting stages filled with puzzles, playful mechanics, and vibrant visuals, embodying an abstract, dreamlike quality.
While minimal in narrative depth compared to more story-centric games, Phogs! emphasizes cooperative problem-solving, allowing players to brainstorm solutions while reveling in its imaginative presentation.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge
Beat ‘Em Up Throwback
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge encapsulates the essence of classic beat ’em ups, reviving nostalgia with a modern twist. Featuring stunning pixel art, the game strikes a balance between past and present while delivering an engaging multiplayer experience.
While enjoyable alone, the game’s cooperative mode shines with friends, allowing gameplay characterized by unique moves and collaborative strategies against increasingly challenging foes. Though it may not sway those who dislike the genre, it undoubtedly offers hours of enjoyable cooperative combat.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
One Of The Best Co-Op Platformers
Approaching its 10th anniversary, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze deserves recognition as a potential classic within the platforming genre. Initially setting the bar high on the Wii U and later enhanced for the Switch, this polished title offers an engaging single-player experience while equally rewarding cooperative play.
Players can take charge of Donkey Kong alongside supporting characters like Dixie and Diddy, each contributing unique abilities to navigate challenging levels. Cooperative play not only enhances the gameplay but adds elements of teamwork vital for success throughout the adventure.
As Dusk Falls
Family Drama
As Dusk Falls presents a unique take on interactive drama within the co-op landscape. Unlike typical horror narratives, this game delves into the intricacies of family dynamics similar to It Takes Two, offering a complementary experience for those who appreciate character-driven storytelling.
Nikoderiko: The Magical World
A Modern Platformer That Looks At The Past And Does Justice By It
Nikoderiko: The Magical World is less of a direct recommendation for It Takes Two fans but serves as an adventure for those who appreciate modern platformers inspired by classics. Created by Vea Games, this nostalgic title melds 2D and 3D platforming styles, introducing engaging challenges that ebb and flow within levels.
The narrative follows two adventurers embroiled in treasure-hunting drama, leading to an encounter with a dangerous relic and an antagonist that threatens their idyllic setting. Though distinct in gameplay style from It Takes Two, Nikoderiko shares a vibrant aesthetic and introduces inventive mechanics that resonate with fans seeking enjoyable platforming experiences.
KeyWe
Cute Co-Op
KeyWe casts players as two adorable kiwi birds, Jeff and Debra, managing a bustling post office. While intended for coop, it also accommodates solo play, ultimately focusing on streamlined communication as players navigate a flurry of tasks.
Although not narrative-driven like It Takes Two, KeyWe emphasizes collaboration through stages requiring independent tasks that need to be orchestrated effectively to succeed. Its charm and coordination-heavy gameplay make it an entertaining co-op experience.
Grounded
A Shrunken Co-Op Adventure
Grounded navigates players through a wild backyard adventure from a unique perspective by shrinking characters down to explore their environment. Though positioned primarily as a survival game, it offers co-op gameplay that challenges friends to work together to combat adversities lurking in their oversized world.
From gathering resources to base-building, Grounded offers a rich gameplay loop that remains engaging for solo and cooperative players alike.
Sackboy: A Big Adventure
A Well-Crafted Platformer With Co-Op Stages
Spun off from the beloved LittleBigPlanet series, Sackboy: A Big Adventure revitalizes the co-op platforming genre with whimsical character design, enjoyable mechanics, and a warm-hearted tone. While primarily a single-player title, it supports local and online co-op modes, featuring several exclusive collaborative challenges that add depth to the gameplay experience.
The charming world promotes exploration, adorned with puzzles designed for cooperative play, satisfying audiences craving engaging and delightful platforming adventures.
Biped
A Fun Little Adventure With Dedicated Co-Op Levels
Biped offers a unique gameplay experience by mapping the characters’ legs to the analog sticks, turning movement into a partnered effort. Designed primarily for co-op, the game features levels tailored for two players, although it also accommodates solo gameplay.
While the narrative doesn’t mirror that of It Takes Two, both games deliver creative encounters infused with puzzle-solving elements and cooperative engagement for a rewarding gaming experience.
Cuphead
Boss Rush & Awesome Visuals
In its distinctive 2D art style reminiscent of 1930s animation, Cuphead emerges as a challenging yet rewarding platformer. Teaming up with a friend amplifies the difficulty level, as adversaries become formidable, necessitating rapid cooperation and quick thinking from players.
Although this game is notably challenging, the collaborative element cultivates a sense of camaraderie, inspiring players to devise strategies alongside one another to overcome formidable bosses throughout their journey.
Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
Family-Friendly Fun
Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga serves as a quintessential representation of family-friendly gameplay that encourages cooperative adventures. While not explicitly crafted around the multi-player format, the structure permits a second player to join in seamlessly, providing opportunities to explore expansive environments across the Star Wars universe.
With a vast roster of characters, players can embody their favorites while embarking on missions inspired by all nine main films, creating an accessible and engaging experience for players of all ages.
Guacamelee!
Great Indie Action
Guacamelee! shines as a 2D action platformer best experienced with friends, offering an engaging combat experience with a smooth learning curve. The game’s non-linear exploration encourages players to revisit areas to uncover hidden secrets.
Its vibrant art style, engaging world-building, and rich character interactions enable players to revel in an experience comparable to premium AAA titles, making it an excellent independent gem for co-op play.
Rayman Legends
Beautiful Visuals & Addictive Gameplay
Rayman Legends is best enjoyed in the company of fellow players, who can team up to tackle delightful yet challenging levels. As a straightforward game to grasp, it excels in maintaining momentum and timing.
The game becomes progressively intricate, inviting players into abstract landscapes filled with unique challenges. Unlike other platformers, the world of Rayman Legends continues to evolve, ensuring a refreshing experience during each play session.
Unravel 2
Cozy Puzzle-Platformer With Co-Op In Mind
This sequel to Coldwood Interactive’s well-loved original presents two yarn dolls embarking on a connected adventure, utilizing their unique yarn mechanics to overcome a variety of challenges. While solo players can switch between the dolls, the true joy arises from collaborative play.
The levels are exquisitely crafted, and the whimsical soundtrack complements the journey beautifully. After completing It Takes Two, fans of cooperative gameplay can dive into Unravel 2 for another enchanting experience.
Lovers In A Dangerous Spacetime
Perfect For Local Co-Op
Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime challenges players to work together in a vibrant spaceship to combat forces of Anti-Love across neon environments. Though marketed as a game suitable for couples, its charm lies not in romance but in its emphasis on cooperative gameplay.
Players can partner with an AI assistant if they prefer solo play, but the game truly thrives in cooperative mode, where each participant takes on specific roles to navigate through varied challenges. Without online play features, Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime remains a delightful offline adventure perfect for co-op friends.
Haven
A Happy Couple
Haven centers around a couple, Yu and Kay, as they navigate a new home on the planet Source amidst unwelcoming challenges. Their journey emphasizes the bond between them, reflecting personal growth and teamwork as players tackle tasks while acquiring resources for survival.
Interwoven with combat elements, Haven allows players to synergize abilities, delivering a couple-centric adventure that echoes themes found in It Takes Two.
Trine 4: The Nightmare Prince
A Quintessential Co-Op Franchise
The fourth entry in Frozenbyte’s beloved franchise, Trine 4: The Nightmare Prince, invites players to join three heroes on a quest to rescue Prince Selius from his dark visions, providing various challenges as they navigate beautifully crafted levels.
Engaging in couch co-op or online modes, players can enjoy an enticing narrative that unfolds throughout their adventure. The storytelling layers and rich environments experienced in Trine 4 will captivate fans who cherished the narrative aspect of It Takes Two.
A Hat In Time
Endearing 3D Platformer
A Hat in Time, released in 2017, quickly became a charming entry in the 3D platforming genre, capturing attention with its whimsical charm. While initially lacking local co-op, split-screen options were later incorporated to allow two players to share the adventure on equal footing.
Players can collaborate to progress through the campaign while enjoying distinct abilities and maintaining balance. The game also introduces online multiplayer and additional content, facilitating further fun for fans seeking co-op experiences.
We Were Here
Clever Co-Op Puzzles
The We Were Here franchise offers a captivating puzzle experience tailored for cooperative players, featuring immersive locations where players must rely on effective communication to navigate through challenges and escape their predicament.
The original game can be played for free, allowing newcomers to test the waters before diving into the sequels, which expand the intricate puzzle-solving format that encourages collaboration.
Cat Quest 2
Strange Bedfellows
Cat Quest 2 stands as a unique co-op experience despite diverging greatly from It Takes Two’s gameplay. Featuring a cat and dog who join forces to safeguard their kingdoms, the engaging isometric action RPG incorporates dungeon-crawling elements to enchant players.
With charming designs, humorous dialogue, and satisfying combat mechanics, this game embraces collaborative storytelling, making it an enjoyable experience for friends and family alike. Its sequel, Cat Quest 3, also supports cooperative gameplay, ensuring continued adventures for fans.
TimeSplitters 2 And Future Perfect
A Time-Hopping Split-Screen Adventure That Is An Absolute Blast
The TimeSplitters trilogy may diverge significantly from It Takes Two in genre, but they both deliver engaging campaigns featuring unique environments and experiences. Known for fast-paced action, players can navigate through various eras while facing enemies with distinctive characteristics.
The sequel, TimeSplitters 2, is particularly well-regarded for its refined gunplay and includes cooperative campaign play. In contrast, Future Perfect emphasizes a more cohesive narrative that unifies its episodic structure. Players will find enjoyment in either installation, showcasing the versatility of co-op mechanics across diverse games.
Portal 2
Brainteaser
For those yearning for a stimulating journey post-It Takes Two, Portal 2 presents a rich environment of puzzles that truly challenge players’ cognitive abilities. Utilizing a portal gun, two players collaborate and navigate through a series of intricate tests, exploring how the game mechanics intertwine with clever level design.
Its independent single-player component offers an entirely different narrative, ensuring players are engaged in a full range of experiences, whether playing solo or with a partner.
While the landscape of co-op titles is limited in quantity, their quality stands unmatched. The specific aim of fostering connection and teamwork makes games like It Takes Two a rare find in today’s market.
As anticipation builds for future releases, it’s vital to highlight emerging titles that could capture the same spirit fans adore in It Takes Two.
- Little Nightmares 3 – This upcoming title marks the series’ first venture into co-op, potentially redefining its approach to narrative and puzzle mechanics. With Supermassive Games at the helm, this project carries the promise of spooky yet captivating gameplay.
- Biped 2 – Following its predecessor’s charm, the sequel is poised for a Q2 2025 release, introducing four-player cooperative options into its delightful mix of puzzles and platforming.
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