A Way Out

I've played A Way Out twice now, with a few years and It Takes Two and Split Fiction in between. It's clear that Josef Fares has grown a lot as a writer. A Way Out isn't a bad story by any means, but it's definitely less polished than the co-op masterpieces that came after. Still, you can tell this game laid the groundwork for the cinematic, emotional split-screen experiences Hazelight would later perfect. The co-op gameplay is fun and varied—except for that damn boat ride, which tested our patience more than our coordination. While the story can be tropey and a bit cheesy at times, it’s still engaging and well-paced. I appreciated that it kept us moving through new scenarios without dragging. I really liked both Vincent and Leo. Leo, in particular, has a surprisingly healthy relationship with his partner, which was refreshing to see in a crime drama like this. One major drawback for me is the ending. Without spoiling anything, it felt a bit too forced. The player has little to no agency in how things unfold, which took away some of the emotional payoff for me. Also, needing to go through the EA launcher is a huge con. It’s clunky and unnecessary. That said, I’d still recommend A Way Out to: - People who’ve never tried a split-screen co-op narrative game - Fans of Split Fiction or It Takes Two who are okay with something a little rougher around the edges It's not perfect, but it’s an important step in a fantastic evolution of co-op storytelling.

Me and my friend bought this game since we thought it would be a goofy co-op game. I have never ever had so much fun while playing a game before, there were so many funny moments through the whole game and we were laughing so hard that my chest started to hurt. It had some bugs but that just added to the fun atmosphere. You had to constantly work together and you needed a lot of trust in the other person all the time, which is heartbreaking towards the end because of the plot. (I won't spoil more than that) This is one of the best games I have ever played so if you are thinking about buying it JUST DO IT. You won't regret it (only if you don't have anyone to play it with). Me and my friend finished the game the same day we bought it because we were having so much fun while playing it. So if you are reading this, this is a sign to get the game and convince a friend to play it with you! <3

! THIS REVIEW IS BASED OFF MY EXPERIENCE ONLY IT MAY DIFFER FOR YOU BUT THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED TO ME ! i had heard great things about this game about the story and gameplay and decided to buy it as it was on sale. my problem is that after downloading it i wanted to use the friends pass with my friend to play as we only had 1 (my) copy of the game but as i launched the game it started giving me errors about origin the EA anticheat so i went in to my files and ran the tools in the folder to fix it which worked and i could launch the game but then when i got in and hosted a game for my friend to join and he had already installed the friends pass and i went to invite him but he was not recieving the invite in the ea app or even in steam we tried for half an hour but we couldnt get it to work i have no doubt in my mind that this is an amazing game, but i am very disappointed about the clash between steam and the ea app for invites which made the game not work and i will be refunding. i really hope it works for anyone who decides to buy it

I played this game a while ago with a friend, and it was really fun. It’s the kind of campaign you can't play solo, so call your best friend, team up, and enjoy this masterpiece together.

Crazy game, worth every single minute of your time I Highly recommend playing with your good friend it is full with twist and turns but you will love it and it is not soo long just about 5-6hrs to finish it.

A great two-player co-op game with good characters and story. Not super long, and things can play out differently, so there is potentially enough here for a second run. Easily worth it with the steep discounts it gets. I really only have one complaint, and that is that [spoiler]you don't spend nearly as much time in prison as I thought you would.[/spoiler] I would have liked if that section were longer. There's not a lot of studios out there making games like this anymore, so I will always support Hazelight as long as they continue with these.

The game was perfect all up to the end until the absolute twist it ruined it all game was perfect but no at the end it sucked. NO SPOILERS

Nothing I can say would reasonably put into perspective how badly I need people to play this game

[h1] A Way Out [/h1] I’ll admit it this game might be a bit old to be reviewing now, but honestly, who cares xd who's gonna stop me? Don't buy this game unless you have someone to play it with. It really makes no sense. But if you’ve got someone you’re close to or someone you trust and connect with then this game is absolutely amazing, and I fully recommend it. The cooperation, the story, the gameplay, the little moments and random fun side-things you can do together it all just works so well. If you're looking for a co-op experience with a meaningful story to share with a friend or a loved one, this game is made for you. And the plot twist at the end just… wow. I won’t spoil anything, but it hit me hard. If you’re the emotional type, this game might even bring you to tears. [b] And lastly, I want to say a huge thank you to Andika, for being the one I got to experience this with. 💗🙂 [/b]

Please try to stay spoiler free before playing this game. only play with your best friend to enjoy the experience to its fullest. every aspect of this game is amazing and i wish that there were more games like this. can't wait to see what else this studio releases. Friend who i played with says "Probably one of the best games i've ever played, it was so fun but so heartbreaking. Even though I knew the ending, it still had a huge impact."

best story from this developer 100%, always load it up and get jumpscared by hank's ass in the first chapter.

A Way Out is a unique and emotionally driven cooperative action-adventure game that thrives on the strength of its two-player-only experience. Developed by Hazelight Studios and directed by Josef Fares, the game centers around two prisoners—Leo and Vincent—who must work together to escape from prison and confront their troubled pasts. What sets A Way Out apart from most narrative games is that it can only be played in split-screen co-op, either locally or online, making teamwork not just a feature, but the foundation of the entire experience. The gameplay revolves around coordinated actions—whether distracting guards, timing a dual escape, or solving puzzles together, both players are constantly engaged. The split-screen presentation is dynamic and cinematic, shifting focus between characters based on the story’s needs, allowing one player to explore while the other is in the middle of a cutscene. This design creates a strong sense of immersion and partnership, making every choice and outcome feel like a shared experience. The action sequences, from tense stealth moments to dramatic chase scenes and quick-time events, are well-paced and diverse, offering variety without overwhelming complexity. Narratively, A Way Out aims for emotional depth, exploring themes like family, trust, betrayal, and redemption. While the story doesn’t shy away from genre clichés, it delivers several powerful moments, especially toward the climax. The chemistry between Leo and Vincent is convincing, bolstered by solid voice acting and motion capture that brings nuance to their evolving relationship. Players grow attached to these characters through shared gameplay moments, and the emotional payoff in the final act is impactful, especially since both players experience it from different perspectives. The game also injects plenty of smaller, more personal moments—mini-games, conversations, and optional interactions—that flesh out the world and add levity between the intense sequences. These quiet activities, like playing Connect Four in a hospital or tossing a baseball in a backyard, offer a welcome break from the tension and contribute to the game’s charm. They’re not mandatory, but they help build a sense of agency and realism in a tightly scripted narrative. Visually, A Way Out is well-presented, with detailed environments and expressive character animations that support its cinematic ambitions. While it doesn’t push technical boundaries, its art direction, lighting, and camera work are all thoughtfully executed. The soundtrack complements the action well, enhancing emotional beats without becoming intrusive. That said, the game isn’t without flaws. Some of the writing can feel forced or predictable, and not every scene lands with the intended dramatic weight. There are occasional gameplay inconsistencies, and while the controls are generally smooth, they sometimes feel too simplistic during key moments. Additionally, without a second player, the game can’t be experienced at all—a bold design choice that limits accessibility but also ensures the core concept remains intact. In conclusion, A Way Out is a bold and engaging experiment in cooperative storytelling. It succeeds by placing narrative and teamwork at the forefront, offering players a journey that’s not just about escaping prison, but about connection and trust. Despite its narrative imperfections and limited replayability, the emotional impact, innovative split-screen design, and the sheer novelty of its co-op-only format make A Way Out a memorable and worthwhile experience—best enjoyed with a close friend or partner on the couch or online. Rating: 8/10

More games like this one. Yes this game is only co-op, imposible play alone. Its fantastic, great gameplay, good story with some decisions and pretty good music. Only con I personaly found is time of gameplay. It could be longer. So, I totaly recomend buy this game, find friend and sit on the couch and enjoy this game. 9/10

I'm glad this game exists, and Developers keep creating such style spectacles. -Spoilers- But the ending of this particular one is such a wet fart, it is not even funny. It is Chaser level bad. Be ready be... not happy. Before it, game is quite good.

This game is definitely worth its price. I really enjoyed the storyline and got to connect with both of the main characters. The fact that one is required to play this game with one's mate is something which brought me back to my childhood where I would often indulge in playing with friends and my siblings. A Way Out is your way out of boredom and longing for a testosterone packed adventure in the 70s America.

The fact that you can complete the game in 4-6 hours makes it very poor value for money. Also you and you friend need to buy it so it doubles the cost. The fact that there are very few games where you have co-op quest bring this game to worth while consideration. I have enjoyed spending an evening playing this game with a friend. so it wins my recommendation. The game offers nothing outstanding other than an interesting way to spend an evening with a buddy.

A Way Out mixes the cinema and video game languages in a tale about two strangers that must break out of prison. Cooperation between these two characters and the players are essential with a powerful dramatic sense. 10/10 experience i would definitely play again

GREAT game amazing story line with good animations

+5 hours of gameplay. (3 hours for the cutscenes which you can't skip) Game must give an achievement for the ones that completes the game. " Achievement unlocked : PATIENCE "

More akin to a playable movie than a game. Good buy at a 50% discount. The story is so-so, with a somewhat predictable twist that explains some glaring plot holes or unexplained parts of the writing. The game has a few continuity errors throughout. The only ugly parts I'll say are the 3rd Person Shooter and the boat rowing aspects, as the game really shows some gameplay and control weaknesses. Other than that, some of the jank makes for a humorous experience. Looking forward to more of the studio's later products.

Solid game albeit short, with a mate it's a great cinematic movie with you in the front seat!

Solid game with some fun game play. The ending was forced and ruined the entire game for me. I got it on sale, otherwise I'd be even more upset. The way it ended the entire game felt like a waste of my time. Regardless of what you choose the game ends terrible. I'd rather be mucking out a stable than deal with this again

Out of all the co-op games I’ve played, this one stands out the most. The way it forces you to work together is just brilliant.

A Way Out is a great opportunity to have fun with your best friend/partner-in-crime. And the fact that only one of you needs to buy the game for both of you the play, is a huge win. It's a game full of urging and cheering each other on, and shouting quick commands to "move! move! move!" when you realise you made a mistake. You'll be working together constantly and relying on each other's instincts and skills throughout your escape and endeavours. But if anything, A Way Out felt more like a cinematic experience that you're just in for the ride. In terms of gameplay, A Way Out is a mixture of cooperative puzzles (such as fixing a truck) and high action sequences (such as escaping police cars), with a few shooting sequences near the end. It's nothing too difficult, all puzzles can easily be solved with some observation and the action sequences are a reasonable (slightly leaning to the easier side) difficulty. Within the main puzzles though, there are a few mini games you can play with your friend such as playing baseball or arm wrestling. While my friend and I didn't do these games that often, I think it's a nice touch that will appeal to friends who love a little friendly competition. For story, A Way Out is a linear game, so the game plays out in almost "chapters" where every chapter has a new puzzle or action sequence. If anything, A Way Out felt more like a movie at times, which I enjoyed. All I can say is, while the story took a bit to get rolling in the beginning, things really pick up after the exposition and the tense, emotional ending really made it worth going through some slower paced sections. Just please don't spoil yourselves, the ending is best enjoyed with as little knowledge about it as possible. It's a shorter game, that's for sure. But ultimately, I had a lot of fun with my friend with this one and I think it's an experience I will think about for a while!

This game was incredible — huge props to the developers and writers. I honestly didn’t see that plot twist coming >.< it totally caught me off guard! Technically, the game is really well made. I just wish there were a few more puzzles between the two characters — that would’ve made it even better. The pacing is solid, and it totally gave me that classic "Sessão da Tarde" vibe (old-school folks will know what I mean). Anyway, I absolutely recommend it — amazing game!

Great game, but sadly isn't very replayable. All the little games and competitions strewn about the story was my personal favorite part. Graphics are fantastic, almost on the level of RDR2 (which released the same year). A lot of the emotional impact of the game comes from experiencing the story for the first time without spoilers. The entire game feels just like a friendship should, with a healthy balance between cooperation and competition. Overall, me and my friend had a lot of fun being unserious and messing around the entire game, but when the emotional parts hit, they hit hard. In conclusion, great little 6 hour experience, definitely worth picking it up whenever it's on sale.

one of the best games ever i played with my best friend and we really enjoyed until last it has such uniqe ending and it really touches your soul. 10/10 game for sure recommed

it was a good story game with all its twists, but very less action actually two play.

Enormous number of cutscenes. I wouldn't be surprised if the time spent on cutscenes far exceeds the time actually playing while in prison. The gameplay isn't even fun. the movements are very clunky and the path you have to take is spoonfed to the player. The game is janky in regards to graphics sometimes, and the physics are a pile of garbage. I wish I could refund it, but I am just over 2 hours into it and no longer refund eligible.

The beginning is wonderful, but the closer you near the ending the more lazy it seems made

Just finished the first playthrough with my husband via local co-op last night. We are both still mindblown over the story and writing, as we had expected the writing to be B-list movie at best. No. It was incredible. And there is so much replayability due to all the dialogues options and interactions with objects, environments, and more. The gameplay itself was alright, especially compared to the other Hazelight games, but being a story-driven game, it makes sense. This game has surpassed our expectations—probably because I am personally much more used to action and stealth games that focus heavily on the gameplay over story. Furthermore, the graphics and environments of this game were also incredible. Beautiful game, can't wait to play it again to see all the different options and endings.

really liked the story and the unique game play approach and quite enjoyed it with my friend (and the plot twist was banger)

I thought the guy speaking at conferences about this game was very funny and cool. I also think there need to be more games like this. Interactions and doing random stuff while your friend is trying to play the game or the other way around is hilarious.

สรุปข้อดีข้อเสีย A Way Out ข้อดี + ฉากจบและการหักมุม + ฉากแอ็คชั่นสนุกเร้าใจ + สอดแซกมินิเกมเข้ามาและสนุกทุกอันทำให้เปลี่ยนบรรยกาศของเกมไปสนุกไปแข่งกับเพื่อนได้ตลอดทั้งเกม + เกมมีทางเลือกที่ส่งผลกับฉากต่อไปแต่ไม่ได้ส่งผลถึงตอนจบ ข้อเสีย - เนื้อเรื่องช่วงต้นสนุกน่าสนใจแต่จะมีความแผ่วช่วงกลางเกมแล้วสนุกอีกทีตอนใกล้จบเกมเลย - แอนิเมชั่นระหว่างช่วงเกมเพลย์มีความแข็งและไม่เป็นธรรมชาติซึ่งจะเห็นได้ชัดในฉากที่มีการยิงต่อสู้กัน - เกมยังมีการใช้ Remote play ซึ่งเข้าใจได้เพราะเป็นเกมแรกของสตูดิโอแต่ถ้าเล่นเกมใหม่ๆของสตูดิโอนี้มาก่อนจะมีให้เพื่อนอีกคนโหลดตัวเกม สำหรับคนที่ไม่ได้ซื้อเกมเลยทำให้ไม่ต้องเล่นผ่าน Remote play ที่ภาพไม่ชัดและมีดีเลย์ในการควบคุม ข้อสังเกตุ - เกมเพลย์จะออกแนวกลางๆไม่ได้ดีหรือแย่แต่อาจจะแล้วแต่คนเพราะส่วนตัวเคยเล่น It Take Two และ Split Fiction มาก่อนทำให้รู้สึกเกมเพลย์ไม่ได้เทียบเท่ากับเกมใหม่ๆเลย สรุป: เป็นเกมเล่นกับเพื่อนอีกเกมหนึ่งที่มีเนื้อเรื่องสนุกพอสมควรดีกว่า Split Fiction แล้วแน่ๆละ แต่เกมเพลย์ยังถือว่าไม่ได้รู้สึกให้ความเป็นเกม CO-OP มากเท่ากับ It Take Two และ Split Fiction แต่ก็มีฉากที่สนุกและน่าจดจำอยู่ทั้งตอนจบและระหว่างเล่น Story: 7 Game play: 6.5 Presentation: 7 Performance and QOL: 9 Conclusion: 7.4/10

Played this a while ago with a great friend — it still brings back such wonderful memories of happy times.

Great game to have fun with a friend and with an unwanted child named ea app

I've played this with my good buddy, and there is no better game to play with a good friend. So much thought was put into the development of it, and I couldn't recommend it more. It's on sale right now for the summer at 5 bucks, definitely worth buying and playing if you have the chance.

One of the greatest story games ever even for multiplayer. Absolute 5 star rating the most fun i had in a while.

I really liked how in the first mission when you enter the game as Vincent Moretti, you get to see the absloute masterpiece of development and design of his voluptuous ass. It's just great. As someone who's played A Way Out, I can tell you why I personally think it's a great game: I loved the unique co-op only gameplay. It's not often you find a game that absolutely requires you to play with another person ( well you can but i don't know this one is just different, you feel me? no? alright. ), yeah well that just sets it apart from most of the games i play on a regular basis The story is incredibly engaging. I was hooked from the start ( especially when i saw his ass ( vincent ) just had to clear that up ), following Leo and Vincent's journey and rooting for them to find their way out of that shit hole of a prison, i got pissed alot but isn't that the point? of like the entire game. I found the split-screen presentation to be incredibly clever. Even when we were doing different things, I always felt connected to what my bud was doing, which really enhanced the feeling of working together ( almost wanted to hit him in the head 20 times during one of the missions ( the boat mission for who ever played the game ). The game does a fantastic job of building tension and excitement. There were so many moments where my heart was racing ( mostly the parts where you're just confused and conflicted on who's choice should I go for? vincent? or leo? ) , and that's something I really appreciate in a game, I guess...

You needed a great deal of trust in the other person at all times . short cinematic storytelling game.

[h1]A Way Out – 100% Completion Review[/h1] [i]All achievements earned, all minigames completed, every route and decision explored, both endings unlocked[/i] [b]A Way Out is a bold cooperative-only narrative experiment that succeeds by never letting its mechanics sit still. It is not just a game you play, it is one you perform together.[/b] Built for two players from the ground up, it uses split-screen to brilliant effect. Story beats unfold independently or in sync, depending on the moment. Puzzles, stealth, driving, and QTEs blend into a fast-moving sequence of mechanics that keeps both players engaged. Full completion means replaying scenes, exploring dialogue options, and digging into every corner of interaction. [b]The narrative walks a familiar path, but sticks the landing.[/b] Leo and Vincent start as strangers forced into alliance. As the story unfolds, the writing sharpens and the tension builds toward a genuinely strong twist. Experiencing both endings is essential, and both feel earned. [b]Gameplay does not challenge your reflexes, but it does reward exploration.[/b] There are plenty of optional activities to uncover. From arcade cabinets to darts and banjo duels, completionists will appreciate the breadth of unique, often silly moments tucked between the serious beats. The game is well-acted, well-paced, and polished where it counts. The cooperative format is not just a gimmick, it is the foundation. A Way Out is a short, smart experience that gets better when fully explored with a friend.

Graphics: 9/10. Story: 10/10. Difficulty: Fairly easy — as long as you know what you're doing. Bugs and glitches: I hardly noticed any. One of the best co-op games out there — highly recommended!

I had a great time playing this game together with my friend. The game involves before all the cooperation that we have to do with our friend, in order to overcome various difficulties. The locations are very nicely done, again enhanced by the interactions we can do with the environment or with other characters who appear through the game. The story may seem cliché in retrospect, but you don't feel it while playing, on the contrary, I have a very good memories of how the plot was carried out. I recommend to anyone who wants to spend a few evenings with a friend in great fun.

not even gonna troll this game is genuinely so beautiful and fun to play with a friend, story is a 10/10 and the endings depressing

A Way Out is not just a game, it’s an experience. The split-screen storytelling, emotional moments, and smooth co-op mechanics make it one of the most unique and memorable games I’ve ever played with a friend. You have to play this with someone. Whether it’s couch co-op or online, it’s built entirely around teamwork. The story keeps you invested, the characters feel real, and the ending? No spoilers, but wow. Let’s just say you’ll both be talking about it for a while. If you want something cinematic, interactive, and full of heart-pounding moments WITH TEARS, this is it.

definitely makes for a good evening with a friend. the game is fun, however i did not care much for the twist or anything after that. the story is ok (plot armor so insane that you cant help but laugh) but since exploring the different areas, playing the mini games and honestly just the two main characters themselves are very entertaining im ignoring the rest. would recommend getting this on sale though because it is fairly short and doesnt really have much replay value except maybe to get missing achievments or a different ending.

Decent story (a little cheesy) and some really funny experiences to be had with this. When this goes on sale, grab and buddy and purchase this!

It's funny and not difficult more.It's feeling of watching a movie and play game in the time. So amaz.

Insane details, I love the side storys! I caught a man cheating in a trailer, 10/10 Absolute cinema

Great co-op game. Fun as heck. Good story as well (in a mature tone). Would recommend.