Three years on from its landmark Game of the Year win at The Game Awards 2021, It Takes Two continues to shine as one of the most beloved and impactful co-op titles in gaming history. Developed by Hazelight Studios and directed by the ever-passionate Josef Fares, the game has surpassed a remarkable 23 million units sold as of early 2025—a testament to its enduring charm, unique gameplay, and emotional storytelling.
A Lasting Legacy: From Innovation to Industry Icon
What set It Takes Two apart at launch is exactly what continues to make it special: it requires two players to complete the journey. This mechanic isn’t just a gimmick—it's deeply integrated into every puzzle, challenge, and story beat.
Following the tumultuous journey of Cody and May—an estranged couple transformed into dolls—the game weaves heart, humor, and a variety of gameplay styles into a seamless narrative adventure. Constantly evolving gameplay mechanics across whimsical worlds keep the experience fresh from start to finish.
Its appeal has transcended traditional gaming audiences. Thanks in part to the "Friend’s Pass" feature (which allows two people to play with one purchase), the game has been a hit among couples, families, and casual players seeking a meaningful cooperative experience.
Numbers That Tell a Story
Despite the expected decline in concurrent players over time, It Takes Two remains a staple on platforms like Steam, often enjoying resurgence during sales or discovery by new audiences. Its "Overwhelmingly Positive" review score hasn’t wavered, proving the quality has stood the test of time.
The game's sales momentum is notable, especially for a title that doesn't rely on traditional multiplayer modes or live service mechanics. Its success is purely driven by word of mouth, critical acclaim, and timeless co-op design.
Highlights:
- 23 million+ units sold as of early 2025.
- Winner of Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2021.
- Designed exclusively for two-player co-op.
- Maintains "Overwhelmingly Positive" Steam reviews and active community.
- Friend's Pass feature makes it widely accessible.
- Movie adaptation in development with Amazon Studios and Seven Bucks Productions.
- Split Fiction, Hazelight’s new game, also garners success and adaptation buzz.
- Director Josef Fares confirms co-op will remain at the studio’s core.
- Still a top-tier choice for couples and friends seeking story-driven games.
Hollywood Calling: The Movie Adaptation in the Works
The cultural footprint of it Takes Two extends beyond gaming. In early 2022, it was revealed that a film adaptation was in development, backed by Amazon Studios and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s Seven Bucks Productions.
While progress has been slower than expected—a source of honest frustration for Fares—the movie is still reportedly in active development, with Pat Casey and Josh Miller (writers of the Sonic the Hedgehog films) still attached to the project as of March 2025.
No casting or release date has been announced, but interest remains high, especially among fans who dream of seeing Cody and May’s heartfelt journey play out on the big screen.
Interestingly, Hazelight’s 2025 hit Split Fiction is also drawing Hollywood attention, further proving that Fares’s storytelling sensibilities resonate far beyond consoles and keyboards.
Hazelight’s Evolution: Co-op Is Forever
With the success of Split Fiction under their belt and development already beginning on their next untitled project, Hazelight Studios is charging forward. Josef Fares has made it clear: co-op will always be part of Hazelight’s DNA.
The studio is now known not just for making games, but for creating shared experiences—ones that bring people together and often leave lasting emotional impressions.
The Verdict: A Timeless Co-op Classic
It Takes Two has firmly earned its spot among the all-time greats—not just as a game, but as a movement for what co-op play can be. With staggering sales, lasting popularity, and a still-developing film adaptation, it’s clear this title isn't going anywhere anytime soon.
In an age where games often come and go, It Takes Two has proven that heartfelt design, creative gameplay, and shared storytelling never go out of style. Whether you're reconnecting with someone or just looking for an unforgettable gaming experience, remember: it really does take two.
