Is “It Takes Two” Really a Child’s Game? A Parent’s Guide

The question of whether “It Takes Two” is a child’s game is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. While the game boasts a vibrant, cartoonish aesthetic and engaging co-op gameplay appealing to children, its themes of a troubled marriage on the brink of divorce, occasional salty language, and some genuinely unsettling plot points make it a game requiring careful consideration before handing the controller to a younger player. Its core mechanics are accessible, but the narrative complexity is better suited for older children or even adults. Essentially, it’s a game designed for co-op play where the players can be friends, couples, or family. However, this does not mean it is appropriate for all ages.

Delving Deeper: Why the Ambiguity?

The confusion stems from the game’s presentation. From a superficial glance, “It Takes Two” appears to be a whimsical adventure perfect for family game night. The characters, May and Cody, are transformed into dolls, and the world they inhabit is brimming with inventive platforming challenges and charming mini-games. However, beneath this colorful facade lies a story tackling mature and potentially disturbing themes related to relationship conflict, resentment, and the potential dissolution of a family.

The game directly addresses the couple’s marital issues, featuring arguments and moments of emotional distress. While the gameplay can be lighthearted and playful, these narrative moments are often starkly contrasting, creating a tonal dissonance that can be confusing or even upsetting for young children. These plot choices are especially tone deaf for younger players, as they deal with mature themes that would most likely be difficult to handle.

Another factor to consider is the language. While not excessively vulgar, “It Takes Two” contains occasional instances of foul language that some parents may find objectionable for their children. This is especially jarring given the game’s otherwise kid-friendly appearance.

Therefore, parental discretion is strongly advised. It’s crucial to understand the game’s themes and language before deciding whether it’s appropriate for a child, especially one under the age of 10.

Understanding the Gameplay and its Appeal

Despite its mature themes, “It Takes Two” offers genuinely exceptional gameplay. Its reliance on cooperative multiplayer fosters teamwork and communication, making it a potentially valuable experience for families. Each player controls one of the two main characters, May or Cody, and they must work together to overcome obstacles and solve puzzles. The game cleverly utilizes the split-screen format, forcing players to rely on each other’s perspectives and abilities. The platform game design encourages communication and cooperation between players, making the gameplay fun and engaging.

The game’s constant introduction of new mechanics and gameplay styles keeps the experience fresh and exciting. One moment you might be navigating a garden using time-bending abilities, while the next you’re piloting a plane through a snow globe. This variety ensures that players are constantly engaged and challenged, making it a compelling experience for both newcomers and experienced gamers.

Recommendations for Parents

Ultimately, the decision of whether to allow a child to play “It Takes Two” rests with the parents. It’s a good idea to research reviews from different platforms and game critics to get a good sense of the gameplay and appropriateness. Here are some recommendations to consider:

• Age Appropriateness: While there’s no official age rating that dictates it must be a certain age to play, it’s generally recommended for children aged 12 and up, primarily due to the themes of marital conflict.
• Parental Involvement: If you do choose to let a younger child play, consider playing alongside them. This allows you to monitor the content and provide context for the more mature themes.
• Open Communication: Discuss the game’s themes with your child before, during, and after playing. This can help them process the complex emotions and ideas presented in the story.
• Consider Alternatives: If you’re unsure about “It Takes Two,” there are plenty of other cooperative games that are more explicitly geared towards younger audiences.

“It Takes Two” is a masterpiece of cooperative gameplay, but it’s not without its complexities. By carefully considering the game’s themes and language, parents can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right fit for their child.

15 FAQs about “It Takes Two” and its Suitability for Children

Here are some frequently asked questions about “It Takes Two” and its appropriateness for children:

1. What is the core theme of “It Takes Two”? The core theme revolves around a couple on the brink of divorce who are magically transformed into dolls and must work together to restore their relationship.
2. Does “It Takes Two” contain any inappropriate language? Yes, it contains some mild salty language that may be considered inappropriate for younger children.
3. Is “It Takes Two” a single-player game? No, it is exclusively a co-op only game and requires two players, either locally or online.
4. What is the recommended age for “It Takes Two”? While there is no specific age rating, it’s generally recommended for ages 12 and up due to its mature themes.
5. Does “It Takes Two” deal with sensitive topics? Yes, it deals with sensitive topics such as marital conflict, divorce, and resentment.
6. How long does it take to complete “It Takes Two”? The average playthrough takes around 14 hours, but can be longer if you explore all the extras and minigames.
7. Is “It Takes Two” suitable for couples? Yes, many consider it a great game for couples to play together, as it promotes communication and teamwork.
8. Are there any violent scenes in “It Takes Two”? While the game is not excessively violent, there are some scenes that may be disturbing for younger children.
9. Does “It Takes Two” have any romantic elements? Yes, it is a rom-com about rediscovering the power of love, so there are romantic elements, including a kiss.
10. Can “It Takes Two” be played online with strangers? No, it requires a friend on the same platform to play online. It encourages co-op play between two players.
11. What happens if children get confused by the themes? If you do choose to let a younger child play, consider playing alongside them. This allows you to monitor the content and provide context for the more mature themes.
12. What are some of the main challenges in the game? The main challenges involve solving puzzles, completing platforming sequences, and coordinating actions with your partner. The game can be hard for beginners.
13. Is there violence and scary scenes in It Takes Two? The movie is quite scary, and pretty gross in places too. I wouldn’t recommend it for anyone under the age of about 15 or 16.
14. What are the minimum requirements for It Takes Two? You’ll need Windows 8.1 or 10, a graphics card like a AMD R7 260X, Nvidia GTX 660, or equivalent, 8GB of RAM, and an Intel i3 2100T, AMD FX 6100, or equivalent processor to meet the minimum requirements.
15. Is It Takes Two worth it to purchase? It Takes Two is not only a wonderful co-op experience, it’s a genuine masterpiece of platforming and interactive storytelling.

By carefully considering these factors, parents can make an informed decision about whether “It Takes Two” is an appropriate game for their children.