We Were Here Together stands out as a co-op puzzle adventure game that emphasizes communication and teamwork between two players. Set against the backdrop of a frozen Antarctic expedition gone wrong, it challenges you and a partner to navigate mysteries and escape dangers through clever problem-solving. Released in 2019, this indie title from Total Mayhem Games builds on the series' foundation by delivering a focused experience where voice interaction drives the progress.
Gameplay
In We Were Here Together, the core mechanic revolves around two players working in tandem while physically separated in the game world. Each player has a walkie-talkie to describe their surroundings, share clues, and coordinate actions. Puzzles often require one player to relay information that the other cannot see, such as symbols, mechanisms, or environmental details. For instance, you might need to align pipes or manipulate levers based on verbal instructions from your partner.
The game progresses through a series of interconnected areas, starting from a research base camp and moving into icy valleys before reaching the eerie Castle Rock. Exploration plays a key role, with players uncovering items and hints that advance the narrative. New mechanics include interactive elements like elevators and alchemical devices, which demand precise timing and mutual understanding. The emphasis on real-time voice communication tests how well you and your partner can articulate ideas under pressure.
Game Modes
We Were Here Together features a single primary mode centered on cooperative play. The main campaign guides you through the story, with puzzles integrated into a linear progression that lasts around 6 to 8 hours. There are no competitive or solo options; the game requires exactly two players connected online, each with a microphone for voice chat.
While the experience is straightforward, it includes replay value through achievements and alternative puzzle solutions that encourage multiple playthroughs with different partners. The co-op setup ensures every session feels unique based on how players communicate and interpret clues.
Story and Setting
The narrative unfolds as you respond to a distress signal from fellow explorers, leading to a haunted medieval castle filled with secrets. A mysterious figure known as the Jester adds a layer of intrigue, revealing a dark history tied to the location. Environments range from snowy wastelands to dimly lit castle interiors, each designed to heighten tension and immersion.
Progression ties puzzles directly to the plot, where solving them uncovers lore about past events and the castle's inhabitants. This integration keeps the focus on collaboration, as story elements often split between players, forcing shared discoveries.
Is It Worth Playing?
For those who enjoy cooperative puzzle games, We Were Here Together offers a solid experience that highlights the fun of verbal teamwork. Player reception on aggregate sites like OpenCritic gives it a score of 67, reflecting a mix of praise for its innovative communication mechanics and criticism for occasional bugs and uneven puzzle difficulty. With over 53,000 reviews on platforms where it's available, it has garnered a dedicated following among co-op enthusiasts.
The game remains supported with patches addressing issues, and its current state makes it accessible for new players, especially since it was featured in giveaways as recently as 2025. If you have a reliable partner and appreciate brain-teasing challenges that rely on clear dialogue, it's a worthwhile pick. However, solo gamers or those sensitive to frustration from miscommunication might look elsewhere.
