Playing It Takes Two on PC: A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
So, you’re ready to dive into the whimsical and emotionally resonant world of It Takes Two on your PC? Excellent choice! Here’s a comprehensive guide to get you and your co-op partner up and running, covering everything from the initial setup to troubleshooting common issues.
The core of playing It Takes Two on PC revolves around these steps:
- Purchasing the Game: Only one of you needs to buy the full game. The other player can use the Friend’s Pass. It’s available on both Steam and Origin/EA App.
- Account Setup: Both players need an EA account and a Steam account, regardless of where the primary player purchased the game.
- Downloading the Game and Friend’s Pass: The player who owns the game downloads the full version. The other player downloads the Friend’s Pass.
- Linking Accounts: Crucially, you must link your EA account to your Steam account. This is essential for the Friend’s Pass to work.
- Inviting Your Friend: The owner of the game sends an invite to their friend through the game menu.
- Game Controllers or Keyboard/Mouse: Decide whether you’ll be using game controllers or keyboard and mouse. If using controllers, ensure they are properly connected and recognized by your PC.
- Graphics Settings: Adjust graphics settings to match your PC’s capabilities.
- Ready to Play: Coordinate, communicate, and prepare for a truly unforgettable co-op experience!
Setting Up Your PC for Co-op Play
Beyond the basic steps, several factors can enhance your It Takes Two experience on PC.
PC System Requirements
Before you even think about downloading, ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements:
- Operating System: Windows 8.1 or 10 (64-bit)
- Processor: Intel Core i3-2100T or AMD FX 6100
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Graphics Card: AMD R7 260X or NVIDIA GTX 660
- DirectX: Version 11
- Network: Broadband Internet connection
- Storage: 50 GB available space
For a smoother experience with higher graphics settings, the recommended specifications are:
- Processor: Intel Core i5-3570K or AMD Ryzen 3 1300X
- Graphics Card: AMD Radeon R9 290X or NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980
Consider upgrading your hardware if you are falling short in these areas.
Choosing Your Input Method
It Takes Two supports various input methods, including controllers and keyboard/mouse. Using controllers, specifically two, is highly recommended for a more intuitive and engaging experience. Ensure your controllers are properly connected and recognized by Windows. You might need to install drivers or configure them through Steam’s Big Picture Mode.
If using keyboard and mouse, communication and coordination are even more critical. One player can use the keyboard and mouse, while the other uses a controller. Experiment to see what works best for you and your partner.
The Friend’s Pass System: How It Works
The Friend’s Pass is a brilliant system that allows one player to purchase the game and invite another to play for free. Here’s the breakdown:
- The player who owns the game needs to have purchased it through Steam or Origin/EA App.
- The other player downloads the Friend’s Pass version from the same platform (Steam or Origin/EA App).
- The owner sends an invite through the game’s menu.
- The invited player accepts the invitation and can then play the entire game as long as they are playing with the owner.
Important Considerations:
- Both players must have EA accounts linked to their respective Steam accounts.
- The Friend’s Pass cannot be used to play the game solo.
- If the game owner is offline, the Friend’s Pass player cannot play.
Local Co-op (Couch Co-op)
It Takes Two shines as a couch co-op experience. To play locally on one PC:
- Connect two controllers to your PC.
- Launch the game.
- The game should automatically detect both controllers. If not, check your controller settings in Steam or Windows.
- Choose the local co-op option in the game menu.
- Have each player select their character.
Optimizing Performance
Even with a capable PC, you may want to tweak the graphics settings for optimal performance. Common adjustments include:
- Resolution: Lowering the resolution can significantly improve frame rates.
- Graphics Quality: Reducing the overall graphics quality (e.g., from “Ultra” to “High” or “Medium”) can alleviate strain on your GPU.
- Shadows and Lighting: These settings often have a significant impact on performance. Experiment with lowering their quality.
- V-Sync: Enabling V-Sync can eliminate screen tearing, but it may also introduce input lag. Disable it if you prioritize responsiveness.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Despite careful preparation, you might encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
- Controller Not Detected: Ensure your controllers are properly connected and drivers are installed. Try restarting your PC or reinstalling controller drivers. Check Steam’s Big Picture Mode for controller configuration.
- Game Not Launching: Verify the integrity of game files through Steam. Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date. Temporarily disable antivirus software to rule out conflicts.
- Friend’s Pass Not Working: Double-check that both players have linked their EA accounts to their Steam accounts. Ensure the game owner is online and has sent the invite correctly. Restart both the game and the Steam client.
- Performance Issues: Lower graphics settings as described above. Close unnecessary background applications.
- Audio Problems: Check your audio settings in Windows and in the game. Ensure the correct audio device is selected.
Engaging with the Game’s Themes
Beyond the technical aspects, It Takes Two is a game rich with themes about relationships, communication, and forgiveness. Take the time to appreciate the story, the characters, and the unique gameplay mechanics that reinforce these themes. The game actively encourages cooperation and problem-solving, making it a valuable experience for any player.
Learning Through Play
Games like It Takes Two can offer more than just entertainment; they can also serve as valuable learning tools. The collaborative nature of the game encourages problem-solving, communication, and strategic thinking. To learn more about the intersection of games and education, check out the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ or GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions regarding playing It Takes Two on PC:
1. Do both players need to purchase It Takes Two to play online?
No, only one player needs to buy the full game. The other player can download and use the Friend’s Pass to play for free, as long as they play with the owner of the game.
2. What accounts do I need to play It Takes Two on PC?
You need both a Steam account and an EA account. Both accounts need to be linked together.
3. Where can I buy It Takes Two for PC?
It Takes Two is available on Steam and Origin/EA App.
4. Can I play It Takes Two on a laptop?
Yes, you can, provided your laptop meets the minimum system requirements. For a smoother experience with higher graphics settings, aim for the recommended specifications.
5. Can I play It Takes Two with two DualShock 4 controllers on PC?
Yes, you can play It Takes Two with two DualShock 4 controllers on PC. You might need to configure them through Steam’s Big Picture Mode or use a third-party program to emulate Xbox controllers.
6. Can I play It Takes Two alone?
No, It Takes Two is designed exclusively for co-op play, either locally or online. There is no single-player mode.
7. Is It Takes Two cross-platform between PC and consoles?
No, It Takes Two does not support cross-platform play between PC and consoles like Xbox and PlayStation.
8. How do I link my EA account to my Steam account?
When you launch It Takes Two for the first time, it should prompt you to link your accounts. If not, you can usually link them through the EA App or your EA account settings on the EA website.
9. What if the Friend’s Pass isn’t working?
Ensure both players have linked their EA accounts to their Steam accounts. Make sure the game owner is online and has sent the invite correctly. Restart both the game and the Steam client.
10. Can I play It Takes Two offline?
Yes, you can play local couch co-op offline. However, to use the Friend’s Pass for online play, both players need an internet connection initially to connect and validate the Friend’s Pass.
11. What are the best controller settings for It Takes Two on PC?
Controller settings are largely a matter of personal preference. Experiment with button mappings and sensitivity settings to find what works best for you. Steam’s Big Picture Mode offers robust controller configuration options.
12. How much storage space does It Takes Two require?
It Takes Two requires approximately 50 GB of available storage space.
13. What should I do if I’m experiencing performance issues with It Takes Two on PC?
Lower your graphics settings, close unnecessary background applications, and ensure your graphics drivers are up to date.
14. Can I use keyboard and mouse to play It Takes Two with a friend who is using a controller?
Yes, you can. The game supports mixed input methods. One player can use the keyboard and mouse, while the other uses a controller.
15. Is It Takes Two worth playing?
Absolutely! It Takes Two is critically acclaimed for its innovative co-op gameplay, heartwarming story, and stunning visuals. It’s a truly unforgettable co-op experience.
With the right setup, you can experience the charm of the game to the fullest. Good luck, and happy playing! This game fosters communication and problem-solving, thus is an excellent way to bring people together. It’s a unique masterpiece of storytelling.