**Disclaimer: possible game spoilers ahead!
When it comes to relationships, it’s no surprise that it takes two. You’ve probably heard countless songs about it. If you’re a video game person, you’ve probably also heard about the new game that’s called It Takes Two. Not only did I really enjoy playing it, but it also reminded me of several important lessons about relationships.
It Takes Two is a co-op game starring Cody and May, a couple on the brink of divorce who get transformed into their daughter’s dolls because of a magic spell. The two have to find a way to turn back into humans while also facing the challenges of their relationship. While the game can be emotional at times, it’s also filled with comedic relief led by a Book of Love brought to life named Dr. Hakim, along with several mini-games for some friendly competition.
The best part about It Takes Two, in my opinion, besides the awesome fantasy world aspect of it, is the amount of cooperation (and communication) the gameplay relies on. Both players are equally important to advance through the story and each has their own skills depending on the chapter. It’s impossible to play alone as there’s no single-player mode and the nice thing is that it’s supported by Friend’s Pass. With Friend’s Pass, if one player buys the game, they can invite someone else to play along even if they don’t own the game themself.
I played It Takes Two over Thanksgiving break with my boyfriend and it was a great experience. It was hours of fun and by the end, we both agreed it was one of our favorite games ever. Because the gameplay required us both to play our part, we were in constant communication about how to help each other and get through the game, which also helped us feel closer.
When it comes to our relationship, I’ve learned and changed a lot for the better, especially as we near our six-month anniversary. As an only child, I’ve gotten so used to running solo throughout my life that I had to learn/practice more emotional intelligence. Admittedly, there have been times I got so caught up in my own thoughts and emotions that I spoke without taking a step to cool off and consider my boyfriend’s perspective, so now I try my best to keep myself in check. For the most part, my emotional intensity comes from a fear of losing or sabotaging the relationship, which ironically makes things worse. I’ve had some pretty tough conversations with my boyfriend because of this, which gives us both the opportunity to communicate our needs and also listen to what each other needs.
I also have to admit that I relate to May, who’s constantly busy and away from home because of her job as an engineer. I may not be into engineering, but I’m constantly trying to balance full-time college, a part-time job, clubs, and my social circle. Ever since the school year began, I haven’t had as much time to spend with my boyfriend, which is difficult because quality time is one of our prime love languages. Playing video games together, though, has been a fun solution whenever we do get time, and I do my best to message him throughout the day so he knows I’m thinking of him.
Of course, my boyfriend and I have moments of miscommunication and hardship, just like any couple, but I’ve learned that it really does take two. When you think about it, life is pretty similar to video games like It Takes Two: It comes with its surprises, both positive and negative, and in the end, you learn a lot from it. No matter what comes your way, it’s important to keep your partner’s interests at heart equal to your own and work together to resolve conflicts and celebrate victories, including each other’s. All you have to do is remember that it takes two (literally).