It Takes Two PS5 Review
It Takes Two, while not a brand-new release, continues to be a shining example of cooperative game design. Given that, Hazelight Studios’ imaginative adventure transcends typical co-op experiences, offering a constantly evolving and emotionally resonant journey that’s as fun to play as it is heart-warming. Although released in 2021 and with Valentine’s Day just over, we thought it would be a great opportunity for Impulse Gamer to check out this must play title that we missed the first time around.
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Firstly, It Takes Two is built from the ground up for two players that is not just a feature but it’s the very DNA of the game. You cannot play this solo. This commitment to cooperative gameplay is what allows It Takes Two to achieve such two player gaming brilliance. You and a friend (or family member) take on the roles of Cody and May, a couple on the verge of divorce who are magically transformed into dolls. Their quest to return to human form becomes a metaphor for their relationship, and the gameplay mirrors this beautifully that at times is a social commentary on the real-world, although not quite breaking the fourth wall.
Each level is a clever design in cooperative play, introducing entirely new mechanics tailored to Cody and May’s unique abilities. One moment you’re manipulating time as Cody while May uses her sap gun to create platforms, requiring precise coordination to solve environmental puzzles. Next, you’re engaging in a full-blown platforming challenge, each character possessing distinct movement skills and strengths. The sheer inventiveness of the gameplay is astonishing, ensuring that It Takes Two never feels repetitive or stale.
The dynamic split-screen perspective is more than just a visual choice as it’s a crucial element of the core gameplay. The screen constantly shifts and adapts to highlight the actions of both players, fostering a sense of shared experience and encouraging constant communication. You’ll be pointing out details to your partner, strategizing together and celebrating your collaborative triumphs to overcome those obstacles.
While the gameplay is undoubtedly the star of the show, the narrative of It Takes Two as mentioned is surprisingly touching and engaging. Cody and May’s journey from resentment and animosity to reconciliation is handled with a deft touch, balancing humour and genuine emotional moments which pull at your heartstrings. The game also doesn’t shy away from the complexities of relationships, but it also knows how to inject levity and charm, often through the absurd situations the doll-sized duo find themselves in. This is a very clever element used by the developers which is probably why the game resonated so well when originally released on other platforms.
As a result, the story is seamlessly interwoven with the gameplay. Each level represents a different facet of Cody and May’s relationship and the challenges they face reflect their personal struggles. Further, the characters, even the non-playable ones, are memorable and well-developed. For example, Dr Hakim, the sentient relationship therapy book, is a particular standout, providing both comedic relief and surprisingly insightful commentary… maybe Married at First Sight (MAFS) should employ Dr Hakim as the relationship “experts” are horrible.
While the core gameplay remains the same, “It Takes Two” offers decent replay value. Playing through the game as the other character provides a different perspective on the story and reveals new details about their motivations. Additionally, some levels offer slightly different challenges depending on which character you’re playing, encouraging multiple playthroughs.
The PS5 version of It Takes Two benefits from enhanced performance, including a smoother frame rate and significantly faster loading times compared to the PlayStation 4. The DualSense controller is also put to excellent use, with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers adding an extra layer of immersion. These enhancements, while not groundbreaking, contribute to a more polished and enjoyable experience.
Graphically, It Takes Two is a visual treat on the PlayStation 5. The environments are vibrant, imaginative, and brimming with detail. Each level feels like a lovingly crafted miniature world, bursting with personality and charm. The character models are expressive and endearing, perfectly capturing the emotions and personalities of Cody and May. Textures and lighting also shine on the PS5 version of this game.
For audio, the soundtrack is equally impressive, perfectly complementing the on-screen action. The music is whimsical and upbeat, enhancing the game’s playful tone. The voice acting is also superb, with believable and engaging performances from the entire cast. So all in all, audio, graphics and gameplay come together like a masterclass in gaming.
Final Thoughts?
It Takes Two is a fun cooperative game on the PlayStation that is filled with consistent surprises and delights, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re playing with a significant other, a friend or a family member, It Takes Two is an essential title for any PS5 owner who is looking for a cooperative challenge and from an incredible moving perspective from a story point of view that can easily be knocked over in a few binge gaming sessions.
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