If you loved the heartwarming story, creative puzzles, and tight co-op gameplay of It Takes Two, you’re probably asking: What should I play next? Luckily, you’re in the right place.
This guide features the best games like It Takes Two, focusing on cooperative gameplay, emotional storytelling, and fun mechanics that require two players to work together — just like Hazelight’s award-winning masterpiece.
🔥 Why People Love It Takes Two
Before we dive into alternatives, let’s quickly highlight what made It Takes Two so special:
- Designed entirely for 2 players
- Inventive level design and gameplay variety
- Deep narrative with emotional depth
- Seamless mix of platforming, puzzles, and mini-games
- Local and online co-op support
So if you’re searching for games with similar charm, innovation, and teamwork, read on!
🎯 Top Games Like It Takes Two
Here are 12 co-op titles that fans of It Takes Two will love — sorted by gameplay type, co-op style, and emotional impact.
1. A Way Out
🧍♂️🧍♂️ 2-player only | Split-screen or online co-op
From the same studio (Hazelight Studios), A Way Out follows two prisoners escaping incarceration. It’s narrative-heavy, filled with action, stealth, and emotional moments — ideal if you loved the story-driven format of It Takes Two.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Must be played in co-op
- Cinematic storytelling
- Same developers
2. Unravel Two
🧶🎮 2-player co-op (local or online via Steam Remote Play)
Play as two adorable Yarnys tied together, navigating gorgeous environments and solving physics-based puzzles. The game is gentle, artistic, and emotionally rich — perfect for couples or friends.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Puzzle platforming
- Emotional journey
- Strong co-op mechanics
3. Portal 2 (Co-Op Mode)
🧠🌀 2-player co-op (local or online)
Portal 2’s co-op campaign is separate from the main story and designed specifically for two players. You’ll solve mind-bending physics puzzles using the iconic portal gun in ways that require real teamwork and communication.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Cooperative puzzle solving
- Innovative mechanics
- Dark humor and clever writing
4. Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime
💗🚀 2-player to 4-player local co-op
This vibrant, fast-paced space shooter requires players to control different parts of a spaceship together — steering, shooting, and defending while under pressure. It’s chaotic, fun, and all about working as a team.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Emphasis on communication
- Vibrant visuals and co-op coordination
5. We Were Here (Series)
📻🔐 2-player only | Online co-op
This is a series of co-op-only puzzle adventures where you and your partner are separated but must work together using walkie-talkies and environmental clues. Ideal for couples or friends who enjoy solving mysteries.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Only playable in co-op
- Requires communication and trust
- Puzzle-heavy gameplay
6. Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons
👬🎮 Single-player only, but with co-op spirit
This emotional indie gem is played solo — but you control two characters at once, each with one half of the controller. It’s a touching tale about sibling bonds and features stunning puzzles and a heartbreaking story.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Created by Josef Fares (same director as It Takes Two)
- Emotional storytelling
- Unique gameplay twist
7. PHOGS!
🐶🐶 2-player co-op (local and online)
In PHOGS!, you and your partner play as a two-headed dog exploring whimsical worlds and solving lighthearted puzzles. It’s full of charm and quirky fun, perfect for relaxing co-op play.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Adorable art style
- Cooperative mechanics
- Family-friendly and fun
8. KeyWe
📬🕹 2-player co-op (local or online)
Control two kiwi birds working in a chaotic post office! This game is a teamwork test where players type telegrams, send parcels, and deal with ridiculous office situations. Great for couples or casual co-op players.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Whimsical, co-op-centric gameplay
- Requires coordination and timing
9. Overcooked! 2
👩🍳🔥 2 to 4-player co-op (local and online)
While more hectic than It Takes Two, Overcooked 2 offers pure cooperative chaos as you manage kitchens under extreme pressure. It’s all about working together, managing tasks, and laughing at mistakes.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Demands teamwork and communication
- Great for couch co-op fun
10. Moving Out
📦💪 2 to 4-player co-op (local and online)
This physics-based game has you and your partner moving furniture in absurd, obstacle-filled houses. Like It Takes Two, it’s equal parts laughter and challenge — great for casual players and families.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Cooperative physics puzzles
- Silly, light-hearted fun
11. Human: Fall Flat
🧍♂️🎮 2-player to 8-player co-op
This quirky physics puzzler gives players full freedom to climb, drag, and throw their way through surreal dreamscapes. Playing in co-op makes the game even more chaotic and funny.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Creative problem-solving
- Fun with friends or partners
12. Cuphead (Co-Op Mode)
☠️🎨 2-player local co-op
For duos who want a challenge, Cuphead combines stunning 1930s-style animation with brutal boss battles. Unlike It Takes Two, it’s not easy — but it demands teamwork and rhythm.
✅ Why It’s Similar:
- Synchronized co-op action
- Unique art and world design
🎮 How to Choose the Right Co-Op Game After It Takes Two
When picking your next co-op adventure, consider:
- 🎭 Story-driven or challenge-based?
- 🧩 Puzzle-solving or action-packed?
- 🤝 Local or online multiplayer?
- 🎨 Casual fun or artistic experience?
FAQ’s
1. What makes a game similar to It Takes Two?
Games similar to It Takes Two typically feature two-player co-op gameplay, strong narrative elements, and puzzle-platforming mechanics. They often require close teamwork, communication, and offer a mix of genres within one game to keep the experience dynamic and engaging.
2. Are there any other games that are co-op only like It Takes Two?
Yes! Titles like A Way Out, We Were Here, and Operation: Tango are designed exclusively for two players. These games require both players to work together, often offering asymmetrical gameplay, meaning each player has different roles or perspectives.
3. Can I play games like It Takes Two online with a friend?
Absolutely. Most games similar to It Takes Two, such as Unravel Two, Portal 2, and Overcooked 2, offer online co-op modes. Some even include a “Friend’s Pass”, allowing a friend to play for free without buying a second copy.
4. What is the best game like It Takes Two for couples?
Many couples enjoy Unravel Two, PHOGS!, and Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime for their non-violent gameplay, emotional themes, and cozy, teamwork-based mechanics. These games are ideal for players of all skill levels and encourage communication and bonding.
5. Is there a sequel or follow-up to It Takes Two?
As of now, there is no official sequel to It Takes Two. However, the game’s developer, Hazelight Studios, is reportedly working on a new project. Fans of It Takes Two may also enjoy their earlier title, A Way Out, which shares many similar co-op-focused features.
Final Thoughts
It Takes Two redefined what a co-op game can be — emotional, imaginative, and deeply engaging. The good news? There are many games like It Takes Two that capture the same spirit of collaboration, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re playing with a partner, friend, or family member, these titles are guaranteed to deliver memorable moments.
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