A Way Out: Do Both Players Need to Buy It? A Comprehensive Guide
No, both players do not need to purchase A Way Out to experience its thrilling cooperative gameplay. Only one player needs to own the full game. The owner can then invite a friend to play for free using the Friend Pass feature. The friend downloads a free trial version, and both can embark on the entire adventure together.
Understanding the Friend Pass System
A Way Out was explicitly designed for cooperative play, offering a unique split-screen experience whether played locally or online. The Friend Pass system makes it exceptionally accessible for friends to team up, even if only one owns the game. This system is a testament to the developers’ desire to prioritize the shared experience.
How the Friend Pass Works: A Step-by-Step Guide
- One player purchases A Way Out. This player becomes the “owner” or “host.”
- The owner invites a friend. This is done through the in-game menu on the respective gaming platform (PlayStation, Xbox, or PC).
- The friend downloads the Friend Pass free trial. Upon receiving the invitation, the friend will be directed to download the free trial version of A Way Out from their platform’s digital store (PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, or Origin).
- Both players launch the game. Once the Friend Pass is installed, both the owner and the invited friend can launch the game and play together.
- Enjoy the cooperative adventure! Both players will have access to the entire game, experiencing the full narrative and gameplay mechanics.
Local Co-op vs. Online Co-op
A Way Out offers two ways to play cooperatively:
- Local Co-op (Couch Co-op): This involves two players playing on the same console, using split-screen. In this case, only one copy of the game is needed.
- Online Co-op: This allows players to team up remotely. This is where the Friend Pass is most relevant, enabling one player to invite another who doesn’t own the game.
Considerations for Local Co-op
When playing local co-op, both players need to be physically present and have access to controllers. The game automatically splits the screen, giving each player their own perspective.
Considerations for Online Co-op
For online co-op, both players need a stable internet connection. The Friend Pass ensures that even without purchasing the game, the invited friend can fully participate in the online adventure.
Why This System Works So Well
The Friend Pass system is beneficial for several reasons:
- Encourages Cooperative Play: It removes the financial barrier that might prevent friends from experiencing the game together.
- Expands the Player Base: It allows more people to try the game, potentially leading to more sales as friends enjoy the experience and consider purchasing it themselves.
- Reinforces the Game’s Core Theme: A Way Out is built around the concept of teamwork and collaboration, and the Friend Pass system perfectly embodies this theme by making it easy for friends to connect and play together.
- Offers a Great Value Proposition: One purchase effectively unlocks the game for two players, making it a more economical option for friends looking for a cooperative gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about A Way Out and its multiplayer features:
1. Can I play A Way Out solo?
No, A Way Out is designed exclusively for cooperative play. You must play with another person, either locally or online. There is no single-player mode.
2. Is A Way Out included in EA Play?
Yes, A Way Out is included with EA Play. Subscribers to EA Play can access the full game as part of their membership.
3. Do both players need an EA Play subscription to play together if one uses the Friend Pass?
No, only the player who owns the full game or has an active EA Play subscription needs the subscription. The friend using the Friend Pass does not require an EA Play subscription.
4. Can I play A Way Out with strangers online?
A Way Out doesn’t feature a traditional matchmaking system for playing with random players. While the game is designed for cooperative play, the intention is for you to team up with someone you know to enhance the storyline and gameplay.
5. How do I invite a friend to play using the Friend Pass?
From the in-game menu, select the option to invite a friend. This will send an invitation through the platform’s friend system. The friend then needs to download the Friend Pass free trial.
6. What happens if my friend disconnects during gameplay?
If a player disconnects during online co-op, the game will pause. The other player can wait for their friend to reconnect. If the connection cannot be re-established, you may need to restart the chapter.
7. Can I use the Friend Pass to play with multiple friends?
The Friend Pass allows you to play with one friend at a time. To play with a different friend, you’ll need to send them a new invite. Only one Friend Pass can be active at a time.
8. Is A Way Out cross-platform?
No, A Way Out does not support cross-platform play. Players can only play together on the same platform (e.g., PlayStation with PlayStation, Xbox with Xbox, or PC with PC).
9. How many endings does A Way Out have?
A Way Out has two distinct endings, determined by the choices players make throughout the game. Each ending provides its unique perspective on the story’s conclusion.
10. How long does it take to beat A Way Out?
A Way Out typically takes around six hours to complete, offering a relatively concise and engaging cooperative experience.
11. Can I play A Way Out on the same Xbox with two controllers?
Yes, you can play A Way Out on the same Xbox console using split-screen co-op. Each player needs their own controller.
12. What are the age restrictions for A Way Out?
A Way Out is generally rated for mature audiences due to some graphic violence, language, and brief sexual content. Check the specific rating for your region.
13. Will there be an A Way Out 2?
While there are no plans for a direct sequel, the developers have expressed interest in creating similar story-driven, cooperative games in the future. Their focus remains on delivering unique and innovative experiences, as explored by the Games Learning Society.
14. Can I play A Way Out on PS5?
Yes, A Way Out is playable on PS5 through backward compatibility. The Friend Pass feature works the same way on PS5 as it does on PS4.
15. Where can I download the Friend Pass for A Way Out?
The Friend Pass can be downloaded from the digital store of your respective platform. This is prompted once you receive an invite to play the game from someone who owns the full version of the game. The GamesLearningSociety.org offers more insight into the types of collaborative and engaging features that are valued in game design today.