Do I Need Two Switch Controllers for It Takes Two? A Comprehensive Guide
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Yes, you absolutely need two controllers to play It Takes Two on the Nintendo Switch. The game is specifically designed as a co-op experience, requiring each player to control one of the two main characters. While there are a few different ways to configure your controllers, the core requirement remains: It Takes Two demands two separate input devices for gameplay. This article dives into the specifics, exploring your options for controllers, how to set them up, and answering other common questions about playing this critically acclaimed game on your Nintendo Switch.
Understanding the Co-op Requirement
It Takes Two is built from the ground up as a two-player co-operative adventure. There is no single-player mode. The gameplay mechanics, puzzles, and storyline are all intricately interwoven with the concept of teamwork and collaboration. Each player controls a distinct character – Cody and May – with unique abilities that are essential to progress. Because of this, two controllers are not just recommended; they are a fundamental requirement for the game to function.
Controller Configurations on Nintendo Switch
The good news is that the Nintendo Switch offers flexibility in how you configure your controllers for co-op play. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
- Two Joy-Cons: This is perhaps the most common setup. Each player can use a single Joy-Con controller, held horizontally. This works perfectly well, but some players may find the smaller size less comfortable for extended play sessions. Remember to attach the Joy-Con straps for enhanced safety and comfort.
- Two Pro Controllers: This is arguably the most comfortable option, providing a more traditional gamepad experience for both players. If you own two Pro Controllers, It Takes Two will play seamlessly.
- One Pro Controller and Two Joy-Cons: This is a great compromise if you only have one Pro Controller. One player can use the Pro Controller, while the other uses both Joy-Cons connected together as a single controller.
- Local Wireless Play: If each player has their own Nintendo Switch console and a copy of the game (or one player has the game and uses the Friend’s Pass), you can connect wirelessly and play on separate screens. Each player would then use whatever controller configuration they prefer on their respective console.
Setting Up Your Controllers
The process of connecting and configuring controllers on the Nintendo Switch is relatively straightforward.
- Ensure controllers are charged: Before you begin, make sure your Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers have sufficient battery life.
- Sync controllers: From the Nintendo Switch home menu, go to System Settings > Controllers and Sensors > Change Grip/Order.
- Press the Sync button: On each Joy-Con or Pro Controller, press and hold the SYNC button until the controller LEDs begin to flash.
- Assign controllers to players: On the Change Grip/Order screen, press the L and R buttons (or SL and SR buttons on Joy-Cons used horizontally) on each controller you want to assign to a player. The controllers will then be assigned as Player 1 and Player 2.
- Launch It Takes Two: Once the controllers are synced, launch It Takes Two and select your preferred game mode (couch co-op, local wireless, or online). The game should automatically recognize the connected controllers.
Friend’s Pass: Playing with a Friend Who Doesn’t Own the Game
One of the most appealing features of It Takes Two is the Friend’s Pass. This allows one player to purchase the game, and then invite a friend to play the entire adventure with them online, even if the friend doesn’t own the game.
- The player who owns It Takes Two launches the game and selects “Play Online” from the main menu.
- They then select “Friend’s Pass” and choose their friend’s name from their Nintendo Switch friend list.
- The friend receives an invitation and can download the Friend’s Pass version of the game from the Nintendo eShop.
- Once the download is complete, the friend can join the host’s online lobby and play the entire game together.
The Importance of Communication and Collaboration
Beyond having the right controllers, remember that It Takes Two thrives on communication and collaboration. Talk to your co-op partner, coordinate your actions, and leverage each other’s strengths to overcome challenges. The game is designed to foster teamwork, so embrace the shared experience. Consider exploring the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about the educational potential of collaborative gameplay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about playing It Takes Two on the Nintendo Switch:
1. Can I play It Takes Two with one Joy-Con per person?
Yes, you can. Each player can use a single Joy-Con held horizontally. While functional, this might not be the most comfortable option for longer play sessions.
2. Do I need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play It Takes Two online?
Yes, if you want to play It Takes Two with a friend online using the Friend’s Pass, at least one of you will need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
3. Can I play It Takes Two on the Nintendo Switch Lite?
Yes, It Takes Two is compatible with the Nintendo Switch Lite. However, because the Switch Lite does not have detachable Joy-Cons, you will need to connect external controllers to play in co-op mode.
4. How do I connect two Pro Controllers to my Switch?
Follow the same process as connecting Joy-Cons: go to System Settings > Controllers and Sensors > Change Grip/Order, and press the SYNC button on each Pro Controller.
5. What if my controller isn’t syncing?
Ensure your controller is charged. Try restarting your Nintendo Switch. If the problem persists, check for firmware updates for both your console and your controllers.
6. Can I play It Takes Two using a single Nintendo Switch?
Yes, It Takes Two is designed for couch co-op on a single Nintendo Switch, provided you have two controllers.
7. Is It Takes Two a split-screen game on the Switch?
Yes, It Takes Two utilizes split-screen during gameplay, allowing each player to see their character’s perspective.
8. Does It Takes Two have cross-platform play?
No, It Takes Two does not support cross-platform play. You can only play with other players on the same platform (e.g., Nintendo Switch players can only play with other Nintendo Switch players).
9. How big is the It Takes Two download size on Switch?
The game requires a download of at least 3.5GB, so ensure you have sufficient storage space on your Nintendo Switch.
10. Can I use a third-party controller to play It Takes Two?
Yes, most third-party controllers that are compatible with the Nintendo Switch should work with It Takes Two. Make sure they are properly synced before starting the game.
11. What age rating is It Takes Two?
It Takes Two is generally rated for ages 12 and up due to some mature themes and mild language.
12. How long does it take to beat It Takes Two?
On average, It Takes Two takes around 10-14 hours to complete, depending on your play style and how much you explore.
13. How do I separate the Joy-Cons from the Switch?
Press the release button on the back of the Joy-Con and slide it upwards along the rail until it detaches.
14. Is It Takes Two worth buying for the Nintendo Switch?
Absolutely! It Takes Two is a critically acclaimed co-op adventure that offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience, making it well worth the investment for those who enjoy cooperative games.
15. Where can I find more information about cooperative games and learning?
Explore the resources available at the Games Learning Society website (https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/) to discover how games like It Takes Two can foster collaboration, problem-solving, and communication skills.
In conclusion, while It Takes Two requires two controllers to play on the Nintendo Switch, the flexibility of the console allows for various controller configurations. Grab a friend, sync up your controllers, and prepare for an unforgettable co-op adventure!