The "DLC" Mystery: Navigating It Takes Two on Nintendo Switch
For many Nintendo Switch players, the transition from the "Friend’s Pass" or the physical cartridge to the full experience of It Takes Two
has been surprisingly confusing. Specifically, the mention of a "DLC" requirement in error messages has sparked a search for non-existent expansion packs. Here is a look into why this "exclusive" DLC appears and what it actually does. The "DLC" That Isn't Content
Unlike most games where DLC adds new levels or skins, the DLC for It Takes Two on Switch is essentially a digital license unlock The "Trial" Trap:
The base game file available on the eShop often functions as a free trial or "Friend's Pass". The Full Game Unlock:
When you purchase the "Full Game," the system frequently treats the transition as a DLC installation. This "DLC" tells the software you have permission to play past the first chapter (the Bee Queen section). Physical Cartridge Requirements:
Even if you own the physical cartridge, you may still be prompted to download a significant portion of the game (approximately 9.5 GB to 12.1 GB) to access the full nine chapters. NSP Updates and Versioning
For those managing their libraries via NSP (Nintendo Submission Package) files, understanding the versioning is key to avoiding "DLC needed to continue" errors: Now on Nintendo Switch™ - EA
The "Requirement" You Can't Ignore (The NSP Problem)
Unlike Mario or Zelda, you cannot install just the base It Takes Two NSP and play solo.
You must install two things:
- The Base Game NSP (Usually ~6.5 GB)
- The Friend's Pass NSP (Often mislabeled as "DLC" - Usually ~6.5 GB)
Why? The game is built on "Co-op mandatory." Even if you are playing locally on one Switch, the console needs the Friend's Pass assets loaded to handle the second player's controller input and screen view.
A warning about "XCI" builds: Some repacks try to combine these into a single XCI (Super XCI). While convenient, these often have a higher rate of "Atmosphere error 2162-0002" on firmware 18.0+. Stick to separate NSP files installed via DBI or Tinfoil.
It Takes Two on Switch: Full NSP Update Rundown – DLC, Exclusives, and Latest Patch
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Release type: NSP (base) + Updates + DLC
Category: Co-op action-adventure
Hazelight Studios’ It Takes Two has been a genre-defining co-op experience since its original launch. The Switch version, often considered a technical marvel, continues to receive post-launch support. Here’s what you need to know about the latest NSP update, DLC, and Switch-exclusive content.
What is an NSP and Why Does It Matter for It Takes Two?
In the Nintendo Switch ecosystem, NSP (Nintendo Submission Package) is the file format used for digitally distributed games. Unlike XCI (cartridge dumps), NSPs are typically derived from eShop downloads. For It Takes Two, the base NSP file size is notably smaller than its PS5 or Xbox Series X counterparts, but it still delivers the full emotional co-op journey.
Users searching for "it takes two switch nsp update dlc exclusive" are usually looking for a complete package: the base game, the latest performance patches, and all bonus content in a single, installable file.
7. Common Scene Searches (FAQ)
Q: Is there an "It Takes Two NSP" that includes all updates + DLC in one file? A: Yes. Look for "It.Takes.Two.v1.0.2.Incl.Friends.Pass.NSW" repacks. However, separate files are safer for corrupted downloads.
Q: Can I use the Update NSP with a physical cartridge (XCI dump)? A: Yes. Updates work across XCI (cartridge dump) and NSP (digital dump). Just install the update over the XCI.
Q: What is the "It Takes Two Switch DLC Exclusive Skin"? A: The only exclusives are pre-order suits. There are no Nintendo-themed skins (e.g., Mario or Zelda) despite fan rumors.
Q: Does the Friend's Pass require Nintendo Switch Online? A: Yes, for online play between two Switches over the internet. No, for local wireless (next to each other). The Friend's Pass NSP works offline in local mode.
4. Switch Exclusive Features (Not DLC, but important)
While looking for "DLC exclusive," many players mistakenly believe the Switch version has hidden content. It does not have exclusive levels, but it has exclusive hardware features that cannot be obtained via DLC on other platforms:
- Local Wireless Play (No Internet): Two Switch consoles can play together via local ad-hoc connection. This is exclusive to Switch (PC/PS5 require online or split-screen).
- Split-Screen on Lite: Even on the Switch Lite, the split-screen viewport has been optimized with dynamic scaling. (Note: You will need separate Joy-Cons for two players on a Lite).
- Gyro Aiming: The "Cody's Nail Gun" and "May's Grenades" can be aimed using motion controls. This is toggleable in settings.
There is NO "Switch exclusive story chapter" or "Switch exclusive boss." If a site claims an NSP has "Exclusive DLC Chapter," it is fake.