A Way Out is an exclusively co-op adventure where you play the role of one of two prisoners making their daring escape from prison.
Players control the protagonists Leo and Vincent, two prisoners working together to break out of jail and seek revenge. The game's exclusive co-op mode requires players to coordinate their actions and make joint decisions to progress through the story. Utilizing a split-screen perspective, players can simultaneously observe each other's screens, fostering a sense of collaboration and shared experience. The game does not offer a single-player mode, emphasizing the importance of working with a partner.
The gameplay incorporates diverse elements that continuously challenge and captivate players. During stealth and exploration segments, players must carefully coordinate their movements to sneak past guards, with one player potentially distracting while the other slips by. The intense action sequences, including shooting and physical confrontations, demand that players work together, utilizing cover and flanking tactics to overcome enemies. Players also encounter driving and vehicle-based sections, requiring them to collaborate in navigating and controlling the vehicle, often during high-stakes chases or getaways. Interspersed throughout the story are various minigames and interactive activities, such as Connect 4, baseball, and fishing, providing opportunities for friendly competition and bonding between co-op partners. The narrative also presents players with meaningful choices that can impact the relationship and dynamic between the two protagonists, though the core plot remains largely unchanged. These decisions encourage players to communicate and consider the consequences of their actions.
One of the game's standout features is its seamless integration of gameplay and cinematic sequences. The split-screen perspective is utilized effectively, with the camera focus shifting to highlight important moments or actions taken by each character, creating a cohesive and immersive experience.