I’ve always been a fan of co-op games for their unique blend of teamwork, communication, and the sheer joy of sharing an adventure. “It Takes Two” truly stands out in this genre, and I can’t help but adore its ingenious co-op mechanics and charming narrative. It’s a platformer that captures the essence of two players working in sync, which brings me to think about other games that evoke similar warmth and cooperation.
When I look for games like “It Takes Two,” I’m not just interested in another co-op experience; I’m after those titles that foster a sense of camaraderie and challenge my friend and me with inventive puzzles and gameplay. The ideal candidates are those that not only allow us to share a screen but also an unforgettable journey, filled with laughs and perhaps the occasional friendly squabble over solving puzzles.
It’s not just about finding a game; it’s about uncovering experiences that can bring friends and family together in stories and worlds where cooperation is not just encouraged, but essential. These are the types of games that remind me why I fell in love with “It Takes Two” and why I continue to seek adventures that bestow that same spirit of togetherness.
Top Co-Op Adventures Similar to It Takes Two
When seeking out co-operative games that offer an experience akin to ‘It Takes Two’, players are spoilt for choice with titles that emphasise teamwork, rich storytelling, and innovative gameplay mechanics. I’ve picked out a few notable games that masterfully capture the essence of shared adventures, be it on the couch next to a friend or through an online connection.
A Way Out
Hazelight Studios developed a unique narrative-driven prison break game titled ‘A Way Out’, directed by Josef Fares. This game is exclusively for two players, requiring both to work collaboratively—either via couch co-op or online—to help the main characters, Leo and Vincent, escape and regain their freedom. Available on platforms such as PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons
Created by the same visionary mind, Josef Fares, ‘Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons’ is a captivating adventure where players control two siblings simultaneously. This game, while not traditionally co-op, can be played with a friend, each handling one brother. It’s a heartwarming story requiring close cooperation, available on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PC, iOS, and Android.
Sackboy: A Big Adventure
Taking a step into a whimsical universe, ‘Sackboy: A Big Adventure’ continues the legacy of LittleBigPlanet with a charming platforming experience. Players guide Sackboy through various levels that demand creativity and teamwork in both local and online multiplayer modes. The game is designed primarily for PlayStation consoles.
Overcooked! 2
For those who relish chaotic kitchen escapades, ‘Overcooked! 2‘ serves up a delightful challenge. With both local and online multiplayer modes, players must hastily prepare and serve up meals to save the Onion Kingdom. It’s a frantic race against the clock, available on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime
‘Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime’ presents a vibrant, action-packed journey where teamwork is the core of navigating through space. Up to four players can join locally to operate different parts of a spaceship, combatting the forces of anti-love. This indie gem can be enjoyed on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Engaging Platformers and Puzzlers
When I think about games that capture the essence of creative teamwork and lively problem-solving, a few titles immediately spring to mind. Here, we’ll glance over games that offer remarkable platforming levels and physics-based puzzles that remind me of the chaos and unity found in “It Takes Two.”
Rayman Legends
Rayman Legends strikes me as the pinnacle of 2D platforming with its vibrant art and inventive level design. It’s a game where the fast-paced action meets co-op gameplay seamlessly. The levels are filled with unique challenges that make use of both the platformer genre and puzzles that require precise timing and coordination with friends.
Portal 2
Interestingly, Portal 2 remains a benchmark for co-op puzzle games. In Portal 2, I’m particularly taken by the 3D platforming elements that blend with physics-based puzzles. The cooperative mode in Portal 2 doesn’t just add more complex puzzles that require two players; it creates an experience that feels truly collaborative.
Trine 4
Trine 4 presents a spellbinding world where platforming and puzzles feel like they intertwine naturally. The puzzles here are physics-based, often requiring cooperation amongst players, and the 3D platforming levels are beautifully crafted, exuding a whimsical and slightly gothic charm that is unforgettable.
LittleBigPlanet
With LittleBigPlanet, creativity is the heart of the game. The charm of this co-op game lies in its physics-based puzzles and the liberty for players to design their own platforming levels. I find the fabric-textured world quite appealing, and with Sackboy as your ever-adaptable hero, the series takes you on whimsical adventures that embody the playful spirit of both platformers and puzzles.
Exciting Local and Online Multiplayer Games
I’m thrilled to share a few games that mirror the joy and excitement of playing “It Takes Two.” Whether you prefer couch co-op or online multiplayer experiences, these games bring players together for shared adventures and challenges.
Cuphead
In “Cuphead,” I find myself immersed in a hand-drawn world reminiscent of 1930s animation, where intense boss battles are the heart of the experience. This run and gun platformer allows for local co-op, so a friend and I can team up to take down the game’s notoriously challenging foes. Available on platforms such as the Nintendo Switch, Xbox 360, and PS3, it’s accessible for a range of gamers.
Minecraft
“Minecraft” is a game where creativity knows no bounds. My friends and I can hop on either local split-screen or online multiplayer to build, explore, and survive together in this ever-popular blocky universe. With its availability on a multitude of platforms, including Nintendo Switch and Xbox Game Pass, it provides countless hours of cooperative fun.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
Nintendo excels at crafting delightful multiplayer experiences, and “Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury” for the Nintendo Switch is no exception. The game supports both local and online co-op, making it a wonderful option for families or friends itching for platforming action starring the iconic Mario and friends.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Though “Kirby and the Forgotten Land” is a more recent release, it has already captured my heart with its vibrant world and charming characters. Offering local co-op, one can join forces to explore and tackle inventive puzzles and bosses. While it doesn’t support online co-op, the couch co-op experience is seamless and enjoyable on the Nintendo Switch.
Philip is a life long gamer and enthusiast.
He first started gaming in the 80’s on an Atari 2600 and has never looked back. He has owned just about every major console since then.
His passion for retro gaming and emulation sprung from trying to recapture the excitement of playing light gun games like Time Crisis and Point Blank in the arcades by emulating them on a PC and has grown from there into a love of emulation and Retro Gaming.