Does It Take Two Need 2 Controllers? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, absolutely. It Takes Two requires two controllers to play. This is a fundamental aspect of the game’s design, as it’s built from the ground up as a co-operative, two-player experience. Whether you’re playing on a console like PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch, or on PC, you’ll need two separate controllers for both local and online multiplayer modes. The game is designed specifically for two players to work together, each controlling a different character, and this necessitates dedicated control inputs. You cannot play with a single controller or a shared keyboard between two players. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of controller requirements across various platforms and common questions surrounding this crucial aspect of the game.
Understanding the Controller Requirement for It Takes Two
The core design of It Takes Two revolves around its cooperative nature. Each player assumes control of one of the two protagonists, Cody and May, and they must navigate the various challenges by working together. The gameplay mechanics are heavily reliant on each character’s unique abilities and the synchronization between the two players. Therefore, having two separate controllers is not merely a suggestion—it’s a requirement to even begin playing.
Console Specifics
- PlayStation (PS4/PS5): For PlayStation consoles, you will need two DualShock 4 controllers for PS4 or two DualSense controllers for PS5. The game supports up to four controllers if you have other multiplayer titles. Remember that a PS5 controller can only pair with one console at a time.
- Xbox (Xbox One/Xbox Series X|S): On Xbox consoles, you’ll need two Xbox controllers. Similar to PlayStation, you can have up to four controllers connected to the console for multiplayer games.
- Nintendo Switch: The Nintendo Switch offers a bit more flexibility. You can use two Joy-Con pairs, one full set for each player, or combine one set of Joy-Cons with a Pro Controller. Both methods work seamlessly for local co-op.
- PC (Steam/Origin): For PC players, the game requires at least one controller. You can’t play with just one keyboard on the same computer. It is best to use two controllers if you wish to play co-op. Luckily, Steam and Origin support most controllers, including Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch Pro controllers, as well as third-party options.
Why Two Controllers Are Necessary
- Independent Control: Each character has unique abilities and actions that need separate input. This requires two distinct control sets, which is achieved using two controllers.
- Cooperative Gameplay: The entire gameplay is built around players coordinating their actions and abilities to progress. Having two controllers allows players to play in real time.
- Design Philosophy: The developers specifically designed It Takes Two as a co-op experience, with the intent of having two players engage simultaneously. Having two controllers is the core element of this philosophy.
- No Single Controller Option: There’s no workaround or hack that lets you play with one controller. The game’s mechanics demand two separate input devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 of the most common questions regarding controller usage in It Takes Two, to provide a thorough understanding of the game’s requirements:
1. Can I play It Takes Two with only one Joy-Con on the Nintendo Switch?
No, you cannot play It Takes Two with just one Joy-Con per player on the Nintendo Switch. Each player needs a full set of Joy-Cons or one Pro Controller.
2. Can I play It Takes Two with two players on one PC using only one keyboard?
No, you can’t play It Takes Two with one keyboard for both players on a single PC. At least one controller is required and two are preferred for a proper co-op experience.
3. Can you use Switch Pro controllers for It Takes Two?
Yes, absolutely. Switch Pro controllers are fully supported by It Takes Two on PC, Nintendo Switch as well as through the Steam platform (and on PS4, PS5, and Xbox).
4. Do I need to purchase the game twice to play co-op?
No, you only need to purchase the game once. With the Friend’s Pass feature, the second player can join for free.
5. Can I play It Takes Two with a friend online if they don’t own the game?
Yes, using the Friend’s Pass, one person needs to own the game, and they can invite a friend to play online for free on the same platform.
6. How do I set up local co-op in It Takes Two?
To set up local co-op, simply connect two controllers to the console or PC. After booting the game, you will pick a character for each controller and play together.
7. Is It Takes Two split screen on Nintendo Switch?
Yes, It Takes Two features split-screen play for both couch co-op and online co-op on the Nintendo Switch.
8. Can you play It Takes Two with family members online?
Yes, you can play It Takes Two online with family, provided each person has a compatible device and the main player owns the full game. The second player can use Friend’s Pass.
9. How many controllers can be used on PS5?
You can use up to four controllers simultaneously on the PS5 console. However, for It Takes Two only two are needed.
10. Can you play It Takes Two on a single console?
Yes, It Takes Two can be played on a single console using the couch co-op feature. Simply connect two controllers for the best experience.
11. Can I play It Takes Two on the Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S?
Yes, It Takes Two is available on both Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, utilizing Smart Delivery technology. You can buy the game once and play it on either console.
12. How long does it take to beat It Takes Two?
On average, It Takes Two takes approximately 14 hours to beat. However, this can increase if you explore for extra content and minigames.
13. Is It Takes Two worth playing?
Absolutely! It Takes Two is a highly acclaimed co-op experience, known for its engaging story, unique gameplay mechanics, and creative level design.
14. Can I play It Takes Two using a keyboard and mouse?
While you can navigate menus with the mouse and keyboard on PC, a controller is absolutely required to play It Takes Two due to the controls of the game being designed for a controller.
15. How do I use the friend’s pass on Xbox?
To use the Friend’s Pass on Xbox, have your friend search for It Takes Two on the Microsoft Store and download the Friend’s Pass. Then, the game owner can invite them to play from the game’s main menu.
Final Thoughts
To summarize, two controllers are necessary to play It Takes Two, regardless of the platform. The game is designed from the ground up as a cooperative experience with two distinct characters requiring separate and independent control. Whether you’re playing local co-op or online, you’ll need two controllers ready to begin. The Friend’s Pass feature allows for a free way for a second player to join, and you only need to purchase one copy of the full game. With the right setup, you’re guaranteed a memorable cooperative adventure. So, gather your controllers, invite a friend, and prepare to dive into the immersive world of It Takes Two.