In It Takes Two, players experience a rich, emotionally driven co-op journey full of creative levels and memorable characters. One of the most iconic encounters in the game is with Moon Baboon, a space-themed stuffed animal with a surprisingly intense personality. Originally a gift to Rose, the couple’s daughter, Moon Baboon plays a crucial role during the Space Chapter of the game. This character adds a mix of humor, conflict, and emotional depth to the adventure, while also serving as a central figure in one of the game’s most inventive levels. Exploring the encounter with Moon Baboon helps us appreciate the design, storytelling, and mechanics that make It Takes Two such a standout title.
Who is Moon Baboon?
Moon Baboon is a plush toy and one of Rose’s favorites. Designed to look like a space monkey complete with a helmet and space suit, this toy is brought to life in the fantastical world that Rose indirectly creates. As with other characters in It Takes Two, Moon Baboon becomes animated through the magical circumstances surrounding the strained relationship between Cody and May. Unlike many secondary characters, Moon Baboon isn’t just a quirky sidekick he serves as a serious obstacle for the player duo.
Role in the Story
Moon Baboon is initially seen as a guardian or protector. His mission is to ensure the safety of Rose, and he sees Cody and May as threats due to their decision to divorce. This misunderstanding sets the stage for conflict. Moon Baboon takes his role seriously, believing that Rose’s sadness stems from her parents’ behavior, and he is determined to stop them from hurting her further.
Rather than being evil, Moon Baboon is an example of how It Takes Two introduces moral complexity. He’s a villain in terms of gameplay, but his motivations are rooted in love and loyalty to Rose. This makes him more than just an obstacle; he becomes a character players understand and even sympathize with by the end of his arc.
The Space Chapter Overview
Moon Baboon appears during one of the game’s most imaginative sequences the Space Chapter. Set in Rose’s room, the environment is transformed into a massive cosmic playground. The level is filled with gravity-defying puzzles, sci-fi aesthetics, and some of the most unique mechanics in the entire game.
Gameplay Mechanics Introduced
- Gravity Control: Cody gains the ability to walk on walls and ceilings, altering how players perceive the environment.
- Shrinking and Growing: May receives the ability to shrink and grow at will, which becomes key in solving puzzles and navigating tight spaces.
- Platforming Challenges: The level features intricate platforming sections that demand tight coordination between players.
- Combat Elements: Players also face moments of conflict where timing and teamwork are crucial to progress.
Moon Baboon doesn’t just appear in cutscenes he actively disrupts the players throughout the level, often serving as a mini-boss. His interventions escalate as the chapter continues, building toward a dramatic confrontation.
The Boss Fight with Moon Baboon
One of the most memorable parts of the chapter is the boss battle against Moon Baboon. Taking place aboard a massive spaceship, the fight combines multiple gameplay mechanics, including dodging lasers, navigating through traps, and launching coordinated attacks.
Phases of the Boss Battle
- Laser Dodging: Players must avoid sweeping laser beams while maneuvering on rotating platforms.
- Target Destruction: Cody and May work together to destroy energy nodes that protect Moon Baboon.
- Final Chase: After weakening him, players engage in a dramatic chase sequence that blends high-speed movement with puzzle-solving under pressure.
This boss fight is not only exciting but also emotionally charged. As the battle comes to an end, players realize that Moon Baboon’s aggression was never driven by malice, but by a heartfelt desire to protect Rose. The narrative twists here contribute greatly to the emotional storytelling of It Takes Two.
Emotional Resolution
After his defeat, Moon Baboon doesn’t meet a tragic end. Instead, players are given the option to spare him, leading to a powerful moment of reconciliation. Cody and May explain their intentions, and Moon Baboon comes to understand that the best way to protect Rose is to support her relationship with her parents, not to stand in the way of it.
This turning point highlights one of the central themes of the game: empathy. By humanizing Moon Baboon and allowing a non-violent resolution, the game reinforces its message about understanding, compassion, and emotional growth.
Why Moon Baboon is a Fan Favorite
Many players consider Moon Baboon one of the most iconic characters in It Takes Two, and for good reason. His design is whimsical yet purposeful, his role in the story is emotionally rich, and his boss fight offers a memorable blend of gameplay and narrative.
Reasons for His Popularity
- Unique design and voice acting that stands out among other toys
- Complex motivations that go beyond simple villainy
- Challenging and creative boss battle mechanics
- An emotional arc that complements the main story
Moon Baboon’s presence helps elevate the Space Chapter into one of the best sections of the game. Players often cite it as a standout moment in terms of both fun and storytelling. His character showcases the emotional range It Takes Two is capable of delivering even in the midst of comedic or absurd sequences.
Legacy and Impact on the Game
Moon Baboon represents the game’s strength in character-driven design. While the gameplay of It Takes Two is inventive and fast-paced, its lasting emotional impact comes from characters like Moon Baboon. He adds tension, humor, and heart to the story, showing that even minor characters can have deep significance.
For players revisiting the game or reflecting on their favorite moments, the confrontation with Moon Baboon often ranks high. His scenes are not only fun but leave players thinking about loyalty, communication, and how children perceive the actions of adults.
Moon Baboon’s role in It Takes Two goes far beyond being a quirky boss fight. He is a symbol of the game’s emotional storytelling and its dedication to exploring complex relationships from multiple angles. His presence in the Space Chapter adds humor, tension, and genuine heart to the journey. Whether you’re analyzing the narrative structure or simply remembering a favorite boss fight, Moon Baboon stands out as a key highlight of an already brilliant co-op adventure.