Hazelight Studios’ co-op-only game that won GOTY 2021. Directed by Josef Fares, released March 26, 2021, sold 10+ million copies despite requiring two players—no single-player option.
Cooperative Design
Every level different mechanics: shrinking to toy size, space warfare, gardening, musical instruments. Asymmetric co-op—players have different abilities. EA Originals published, Friend’s Pass let one owner invite friend for free.
Awards Sweep
GOTY at TGA, BAFTA, D.I.C.E., GDC. Beat Deathloop, Metroid Dread, Psychonauts 2, Resident Evil Village. 88/100 Metacritic. Josef Fares’ TGA acceptance speech: “Fuck the Oscars!”—became instant meme.
Cultural Impact
Proved co-op games commercially viable. Couples therapy via elephant murder. Divorce storyline where parents turned into dolls. The hashtag celebrates co-op moments, relationship bonding, and Fares’ passion.
Sources: 10M sales EA announcement, GOTY TGA