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It Takes Two

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of It Takes Two
Item: It Takes Two
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Comedy, Puzzle and Logic, RPG, Drama, Casual, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMar 26, 2021

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X

DeveloperHazelight

Overview

Embark on the craziest journey of your life in It Takes Two, a genre-bending platform adventure created purely for co-op. Invite a friend to join for free with Friend’s Pass and work together across a huge variety of gleefully disruptive gameplay challenges. Play as the clashing couple Cody and May, two humans turned into dolls by a magic spell. Together, trapped in a fantastical world where the unpredictable hides around every corner, they are reluctantly challenged with saving their fractured relationship.

Elsewhere

9.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

It Takes Two impresses with its whimsical concept of a couple navigating divorce as dolls, praised for humor and teamwork. However, critics slam its characters as unlikable and the story as predictable and superficial, feeling it undermines serious themes with its lighthearted tone. While it has engaging moments and clever dialogue, the narrative ultimately lacks depth and fails to tackle its emotional stakes meaningfully.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of It Takes Two has garnered a mix of appreciation from critics, particularly for its whimsical and imaginative premise. Many reviewers, such as Gfinity and GameSpot, highlight the engaging journey of Cody and May, a couple on the brink of divorce, who are transformed into dolls and must collaborate to navigate their challenges. Critics like JeuxActu and GameMAG commend the narrative for exploring themes of love, teamwork, and the complexities of relationships, emphasizing the humorous and lighthearted tone that permeates the game. Additionally, some reviewers, including Carole Quintaine, note the well-written dialogues that contribute to the characters' development, making the story resonate with players on a personal level. However, the narrative has faced significant criticism, particularly regarding its execution and depth. Many reviewers, including Games.cz and Windows Central, describe the characters as unlikable and the story as predictable or superficial. Critics such as GRYOnline.pl and Areajugones express disappointment in the lack of emotional depth, suggesting that the serious themes of divorce are undermined by the game's lighthearted approach. Furthermore, some critics, like Pure Xbox and The Sydney Morning Herald, argue that the narrative feels rushed and lacks the necessary character development to make the emotional stakes feel significant. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while It Takes Two presents an intriguing concept and offers moments of genuine connection and humor, it ultimately falls short in delivering a profound and impactful narrative. Reviewers like New Game Network and VGC note that the story struggles to balance its comedic elements with the serious themes it attempts to tackle, resulting in a narrative that may feel shallow or inconsistent. Despite its imaginative premise and some engaging moments, the story's execution leaves many critics feeling that it could have explored its themes of love and reconciliation in a more meaningful way.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

It Takes Two is hailed as a standout cooperative game, praised for its innovative mechanics, varied gameplay, and emphasis on teamwork. Critics laud its fresh challenges and engaging puzzles, cementing it as a must-play for fans of cooperative gaming. However, some note minor drawbacks, such as occasional blandness in mechanics and inconsistent challenges. Overall, it’s seen as a benchmark for future titles in the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of It Takes Two has been overwhelmingly praised by critics, with many highlighting its innovative mechanics and cooperative design as standout features. Critics like Wccftech and We Got This Covered noted the game's highly varied gameplay, which seamlessly integrates multiple genres and mechanics across its chapters, ensuring that players remain engaged throughout. The emphasis on cooperation is a recurring theme, with reviewers such as M3 and Metro GameCentral emphasizing the need for teamwork to overcome obstacles and solve puzzles. Many critics, including Worth Playing and Gaming Nexus, commended the dynamic nature of the gameplay, which frequently introduces new abilities and challenges, keeping the experience fresh and exciting. Overall, the game is celebrated for its creativity, with unique puzzles and cooperative mechanics that elevate the gameplay experience. However, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks within the gameplay. Cubed3 mentioned that while the gameplay is solid, it can feel a bit bland at times, suggesting that the variety may lead to a lack of depth in individual mechanics. Generación Xbox echoed this sentiment, noting that while the game offers a diverse range of gameplay styles, some mechanics might lack the depth that players may desire. Additionally, Wccftech mentioned that certain challenges can be inconsistent, which could potentially disrupt the flow of gameplay. These critiques, while not widespread, indicate that there are areas where the game could have further refined its mechanics to enhance player experience. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that It Takes Two delivers a remarkable cooperative experience that stands out in the gaming landscape. The majority of reviewers, including Gaming Age and PlayStation LifeStyle, regarded the gameplay as a masterpiece, highlighting its ability to foster collaboration and communication between players. The game's inventive mechanics and engaging puzzles have resonated with many, establishing it as a must-play title for those who enjoy cooperative gaming. With its emphasis on teamwork and creativity, It Takes Two has successfully positioned itself as a benchmark for future cooperative titles, earning accolades from a wide array of critics across various platforms.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

It Takes Two wows with its vibrant, Pixar-like visuals and imaginative design, earning high praise for its detailed, whimsical worlds that enhance gameplay. Critics rave about its stunning environments and creative level layouts. However, the Nintendo Switch version faces backlash for significant graphical downgrades—flickering lights and lower texture quality mar the experience. Despite some technical flaws, the game’s captivating aesthetics and charming artistic direction shine through, making it a standout visual treat overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of It Takes Two is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its vibrant and imaginative aesthetic. Reviewers like Pure Xbox and AusGamers highlight the game's detailed and magical worlds, comparing its quality to that of a Pixar film. Critics such as We Got This Covered and Game Informer emphasize the stunning environments and the creative level designs that enhance the gameplay experience. The artistic direction is frequently described as charming and whimsical, with attention to detail that captivates players, as noted by Areajugones and GameSpew. The game’s ability to transform mundane settings into fantastical environments, as pointed out by Windows Central, further showcases its strong visual appeal. However, there are notable criticisms, particularly concerning the Nintendo Switch version of the game. Critics from NintendoWorldReport, GamingTrend, and Screen Rant express disappointment with significant graphical downgrades, including flickering lighting, lower texture quality, and texture loading issues. These issues detract from the overall visual experience, leading to a less polished appearance compared to versions on more powerful hardware. Additionally, some reviewers, like LevelUp and PC Games, mention occasional performance issues, such as stiff animations and muddy textures, which slightly diminish the visual impact. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus among critics is that It Takes Two boasts an impressive visual design that successfully supports its whimsical narrative. The majority of reviewers agree that the game’s graphics are not only visually appealing but also contribute positively to the immersive experience. Critics like GameMAG and Gamer.nl affirm the game's ability to create enchanting environments filled with detail and creativity. While some technical issues exist, particularly on the Switch, the game’s artistic vision and execution are widely regarded as a highlight, making It Takes Two a visually engaging experience across various platforms.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

It Takes Two features strong sound design and charming voice acting, especially from Dr. Hakim, enhancing the gaming experience with a whimsical soundtrack. Critics praise its immersive audio but note a lack of standout musical moments and some inconsistent voice acting. Overall, while the audio elements are effective and enriching, they don't fully reach exceptional levels.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of It Takes Two have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the overall quality and effectiveness of the audio elements in enhancing the gaming experience. Critics like GameSpew and Digital Chumps highlighted the stellar voice acting, particularly noting the charm and humor brought by Dr. Hakim's character. The soundtrack has been described as whimsical and magical by critics such as Carole Quintaine and PlaySense, effectively complementing various gameplay sequences and emotional moments. Additionally, GamePro Germany and WellPlayed emphasized how the music ties the game together, contributing to an immersive atmosphere that resonates well with players. Despite the praise, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music. Some reviewers, including Areajugones and Atomix, pointed out that while the soundtrack serves its purpose, it lacks standout moments or memorable themes that could have elevated the overall experience. Critics like New Game Network and IGN Spain echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while the sound design is impressive, the music does not leave a lasting impact. Furthermore, there were mentions of inconsistencies in voice acting quality, particularly with Dr. Hakim being criticized for being loud and stereotypical, as noted by GameSpot. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that It Takes Two features a solid sound design and music that effectively enhance the gameplay experience, though some feel it falls short of being exceptional. While many reviewers celebrated the voice acting and the whimsical nature of the soundtrack, others highlighted the lack of memorable musical themes and impactful sound effects. Critics like Generación Xbox and MGG noted the immersive quality of the audio, indicating that, despite some drawbacks, the sound design and music contribute positively to the game's charm and emotional depth, making it a noteworthy aspect of the overall experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

It Takes Two boasts impressive voice acting that enhances the game's narrative, with critics praising the authentic performances and chemistry between protagonists Cody and May. However, the absence of French and Italian localizations and mixed opinions on certain characters, particularly the annoying Dr. Hakim, highlight notable flaws. While the voice work is a standout feature, it faces criticism for localization gaps and uneven portrayals, making it a double-edged sword in the game's storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in It Takes Two has garnered significant praise from various critics, highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing the game's narrative and emotional depth. Reviewers such as Atomix and Digital Chumps commend the performances for their authenticity, noting that the main actors successfully capture the essence of their characters and their evolving relationship. Critics like Game Rant and Impulsegamer echo this sentiment, describing the voice acting as incredible and superb, respectively, with engaging performances that bring the characters to life. The chemistry between the protagonists, Cody and May, is frequently highlighted, with GameSpot noting their impressively casual and natural-sounding interactions that help sell their relationship. Overall, many reviews emphasize the high-quality voice work as a standout feature that significantly contributes to the game's charm and storytelling. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly concerning the localization and certain character portrayals. Carole Quintaine and Multiplayer.it point out the absence of French and Italian voiceovers, respectively, which they view as missed opportunities that detract from the overall experience for non-English speakers. Additionally, some critics express dissatisfaction with the character Dr. Hakim, with New Game Network and GamingBolt describing his portrayal as annoying or awkward, suggesting that it detracts from the overall enjoyment of the game. Push Square also mentions mixed reviews regarding certain performances, indicating that some characters may come off as robotic or stilted, particularly in the case of the character Rose. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in It Takes Two is largely effective and contributes positively to the game's narrative, there are significant caveats that should be considered. Many critics, including WellPlayed and Worth Playing, affirm the high quality of the voice performances, yet acknowledge the limitations posed by the absence of localized versions and some uneven character portrayals. The mixed sentiments surrounding Dr. Hakim's character further illustrate that while the voice acting is a strong point for the game, it is not without its flaws. Thus, the voice acting can be seen as a double-edged sword—enhancing the game's emotional core while also presenting challenges in terms of localization and character consistency.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

It Takes Two shines on PS5 and Xbox Series X with smooth gameplay and solid performance, but struggles on Nintendo Switch due to technical issues like flickering and poor online support. Critics generally praise the newer consoles, while the Switch version is criticized for a compromised experience. Overall, performance varies greatly by platform.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of It Takes Two varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with some notable positives. On the Nintendo Switch, several critics, including Pocket Gamer UK and Digital Chumps, praised the game for its smooth performance and stunning environments, indicating a well-optimized port despite the hardware limitations. On the PlayStation 5, the consensus is largely positive, with multiple reviewers such as Trusted Reviews and Game Revolution highlighting the game’s ability to maintain a solid 60 frames-per-second (FPS) and overall polished experience. The Xbox Series X also received commendations for its excellent performance, with critics like Eurogamer Italy and GameOver.gr noting the lack of technical issues and fast loading times, which contribute to a smooth gaming experience. However, there are significant negatives associated with each platform. The Nintendo Switch version faces criticism for its technical shortcomings, with reviewers like NintendoWorldReport and Cubed3 pointing out issues such as flickering lighting, texture downgrades, and poor online support. On the PlayStation 5, while the performance is generally solid, some critics, including GamingTrend and Digital Chumps, mentioned occasional bugs and camera issues that detract from the overall experience. The Xbox Series X, while performing well, is not without its flaws; minor frame drops and bugs were noted by critics such as Generación Xbox and MGG Spain, indicating that the experience may not be as flawless as it seems. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a mixed sentiment, heavily influenced by the platform on which the game is played. The Nintendo Switch version appears to struggle with technical performance, leading to a more compromised experience, as noted by critics like Meristation and GamingTrend. In contrast, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X versions are generally regarded as stable and well-optimized, with most reviewers agreeing on their solid performance. Critics like Carole Quintaine and Atomix have highlighted the PS5’s polished technical performance, while Xbox Series X reviews emphasize its smooth gameplay. Thus, while It Takes Two excels on newer consoles, it faces challenges on the Switch, leading to varying experiences based on the platform.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

It Takes Two garners mixed but mostly positive reviews on replay value, praised for its extensive content and fun mini-games that enhance cooperative play. Critics highlight features like the Friend's Pass that boost its appeal for multiplayer experiences. However, concerns arise about limited incentives for revisiting mini-games, the game’s cooperative design restricting solo play, and its relatively short length (12-14 hours), which may not justify multiple playthroughs. Overall, while it offers engaging mechanics, replayability depends heavily on player circumstances and preferences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of It Takes Two present a mixed yet predominantly positive sentiment among critics. Many reviewers highlight the game's extensive content, with several noting the inclusion of over 25 mini-games that can be played separately from the main campaign, enhancing replayability. Critics like GameSpot and TheGamer emphasize the variety of mechanics and cooperative gameplay that encourage players to revisit the game, particularly to explore different character abilities and engage in competitive mini-games. The Friend's Pass feature, mentioned by Game Revolution and WellPlayed, allows for flexible co-op experiences, further increasing the game's appeal for friends and couples looking to share the adventure. However, a significant number of critics point out limitations in replay value. VGC and MGG express concerns about the lack of incentives for replaying the optional mini-games, suggesting that they may not be engaging enough to warrant a second playthrough. Others, like Cubed3 and Jeuxvideo.com, mention that the game's cooperative nature may restrict replayability for solo players, as the experience is best enjoyed with a partner. Additionally, some critics feel that the length of the game, typically around 12-14 hours, may not provide enough content to encourage multiple playthroughs, as noted by Wccftech and Digital Trends. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while It Takes Two offers a variety of engaging mechanics and mini-games that enhance its replay value, there are notable limitations tied to its cooperative design and the nature of its optional content. Critics like IGN Japan and GameSkinny acknowledge that the game encourages exploration and competition, which can lead to enjoyable repeat experiences, but many also caution that the lack of traditional collectibles and the necessity of a co-op partner may deter solo players from revisiting the game. Thus, while the game is celebrated for its creativity and cooperative gameplay, its replay value appears to be somewhat conditional on the player's circumstances and preferences.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding It Takes Two among critics is predominantly positive, with many praising its inventive gameplay mechanics, engaging co-op experience, and charming aesthetics. Reviewers like GameSpot and Digital Trends highlight the game as a standout title in the 3D platformer genre, commending its creativity and emotional depth. Critics such as Carole Quintaine and PlayStation LifeStyle emphasize the game's well-crafted universe, ingenious gameplay, and heartfelt story, making it a must-play for cooperative gaming enthusiasts. The variety of environments and imaginative level design, as noted by Hey Poor Player and AusGamers, further contribute to the game's appeal, showcasing a unique blend of challenges and humor that resonates well with players. However, several critics also pointed out notable weaknesses that detract from the overall experience. The narrative and character development received criticism from multiple sources, with Windows Central and Areajugones specifically mentioning the unlikable characters and superficial storytelling as significant drawbacks. Technical issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch version, were highlighted by NintendoWorldReport and Cubed3, making it less recommendable compared to other platforms. Additionally, some reviewers, like TheSixthAxis and IGN France, noted that the constant bickering between characters might hinder players' ability to connect with them, impacting the overall enjoyment of the game. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that It Takes Two is a highly recommended co-op experience that excels in gameplay and creativity, overshadowing its narrative shortcomings. The game is frequently described as a must-play, especially for those who enjoy cooperative gaming, with many reviewers emphasizing its ability to strengthen relationships through shared gameplay experiences. Critics like Gaming Age and Pocket Tactics encapsulate this sentiment, reinforcing that the game's innovative approach and engaging mechanics make it a standout title in its genre, ultimately positioning It Takes Two as a triumph in the realm of co-op gaming.

TL;DR

It Takes Two garners strong praise for its innovative gameplay, engaging co-op experience, and charming aesthetics, making it a standout 3D platformer. Critics laud its creativity and emotional depth, though some criticize unlikable characters and superficial storytelling, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Despite these flaws, it's deemed a must-play for co-op fans, with its mechanics celebrated for enhancing player relationships. Overall, it’s a triumph in cooperative gaming.

MONSTER

Reviews

206 reviews found

100

BaziCenter

Xbox Series X

Apr 13, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

It Takes Two is considered one of the best co-op games in history, effectively addressing important social issues and providing a unique gaming experience that transcends traditional video games.

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100

Attack of the Fanboy

PlayStation 4

Apr 6, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

It Takes Two is hailed as one of the finest co-op experiences, providing joy and engagement throughout its duration. It is highly recommended for all gamers.

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100

Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 4

Apr 15, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

An absolute must-play that pushes the boundaries of the co-op genre, offering a near-perfect co-op experience. Highly praised by the reviewer as one of the best co-op games experienced.

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100

GameOver.gr

Xbox Series X

Apr 29, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

It Takes Two is a groundbreaking co-op experience that excels in all aspects, setting a new standard for the genre. It is highly recommended for its innovative gameplay and engaging story.

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100

IGN France

Xbox Series X

Mar 28, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite some flaws, such as character depth and occasional camera issues, It Takes Two is celebrated for its cooperative gameplay and memorable experiences, earning a high recommendation.

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100

Game Rant

PlayStation 5

Mar 24, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

It Takes Two is praised as co-op gaming genius, a classic of the genre, and a Game of the Year contender. It is polished to near-perfection, offering a must-play experience for co-op gaming fans.

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100

GamesBeat

PlayStation 5

Mar 24, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer highly recommends It Takes Two as one of the most fun co-op games they've ever played

100

GamesRadar+

PlayStation 5

Mar 24, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Unique co-operative gameplay experience. Blend of reality and fantasy. Refreshingly different. Innovative and surprising. Realistic portrayal of human relationships. Familiar and relatable issues.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

Sep 1, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly recommended for non-gamers and those looking for an engaging co-op experience.

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100

VG247

Xbox Series X

Mar 24, 2021