Back 2 Back wants to put couch co-op on mobile, with shooting and driving action

Back 2 Back: Two-Player Couch Co-op on Mobile – Can It Work?

Two Frogs Games is attempting a bold feat: bringing couch co-op to mobile phones with their new game, Back 2 Back. In a world dominated by online multiplayer, this concept feels almost retro. But can a two-player experience truly thrive on a small screen?

The game aims to capture the spirit of co-op titles like It Takes Two and Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes, tasking players with distinct, complementary roles. One player drives a vehicle through a challenging obstacle course, while the other acts as a shooter, protecting the vehicle from enemies. The setting includes perilous cliffs, lava fields, and more.

A Novel Approach (with Challenges)

The immediate question is: how does it even work? The answer, while not perfectly elegant, is surprisingly functional. Each player uses their own phone to control their respective aspects of the shared gameplay session. This innovative approach, while initially raising concerns about screen size limitations, manages to deliver a playable experience.

While the dual-phone setup might not be the most streamlined solution, the core concept holds promise. The enduring appeal of local multiplayer, as evidenced by the success of games like Jackbox, suggests a significant audience for this type of experience. Back 2 Back's success will depend on its execution, but the potential for fun, collaborative gameplay in a unique format is undeniable.