Top Co Op Games: 2024 Edition

Have the games you've been playing with your friends or family gone stale and boring? Or you're just looking for your first game that falls into the co-op category?

Whatever it is, you've opened the right link. Below, you'll find the 20 best cooperative games, both new and already-classic ones.

So, once you're done with your 'write an essay for me' request, check out one of the games below. This list includes games for all tastes, platforms, and numbers of players, from the biggest titles for up to four players to award-winning 2-player coop games!

What Are Co-Op Games?

This term is short for 'cooperative games.' And that's exactly what they are: to play them, you need to grab a friend or several and team up (i.e., cooperate) to beat the game.

There's a variety of cooperative games out there. Some, including the best co-op games 2022 has to offer, were designed as a co-op adventure from the very start. Others are single-player games that offer a co-op mode that tweaks the gameplay.

At the dawn of this game genre, you could play only over a local network or by plugging in an extra controller or mouse. With the rise of high-speed internet, new co-op games now allow you to play online with friends or random strangers.

What Is 2 Player Co-Op?

A 2 player co-op game, in its most basic form, adjusts the single-player option of a videogame, often with larger changes to the plot and gameplay. It differs from other multiplayer games' combative settings like player versus player (PvP) or deathmatch. Instead, gamers can help each other while fighting cooperatively in a range of ways, including handing over firearms or other supplies, recuperating, offering cover fire during combat, and engaging in cooperative actions like pushing a partner up and over barriers.

‘It Takes Two’ is an example of a co-op game that can be enjoyed locally using one or more input devices. In contrast, other co-op games may be hosted via a network using local or wide area networks. In certain video games, two players from the same console may play online with other gamers.

What Games Can You Play with a Friend?

There are multiple genres of multiplayer games, and not all of them are about fostering cooperation. Besides co-op games, you can also come across:

• Massively multiplayer online games that thousands of players can play at the same time;
• Multiplayer player-versus-player: you'll often find this mode in a racing or fighting game.

Looking for specific titles to try? Then, whether you're searching for fun co-op games on Steam or the best coop games for your console, check out the list below to find your perfect game!

Top 2 Player Coop Games For You

Is Steam your religion? Then you'd be happy to find out that this game store has plenty of options to offer you.

Here are just some of the good co op games on Steam with tons of positive reviews:

1. Human: Fall Flat – you'll team up with up to seven other players to solve puzzles that are just so silly;
2. Dead by Daylight – four players play as survivors and try to outlast the fifth player, the Killer;
3. Destiny 2 – dive into the open world of Destiny 2 and explore the solar system of this free-to-play co-op;
4. Overcooked! 2 – play with up to three friends to keep absurd restaurants running;
5. Left 4 Dead 2 – it's the ultimate co-op zombie survival game made for cooperative gameplay.

What Games Have a Multiplayer Mode?

And what about the single-player games that have a multiplayer mode in addition to their story mode? Which ones deserve your time?

If you want to know the answer to the last question, check out this list of the top-rated co-op games:

1. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II – this shooter comes with a Special Ops mode with a great co-op experience;
2. Red Dead Redemption II – it includes the Red Dead Online mode that allows you to carve out your own path in the open world of RDR2;
3. Phasmophobia – your task will be to hunt ghosts in this paranormal four-player online co-op;
4. Grand Theft Auto V – this game needs no introduction for gamers as it remains one of the best PS5 coop games;
5. Dying Light – fight to survive a zombie apocalypse in this first-person co-op with an online multiplayer mode.

How to Play Co-Op Games

The short answer is all you'll need is a console or a PC with the right game installed. (You might also want to buy essays online to make time for playing coop games. Don't worry, mum's the word!)

As for the platform itself, don't worry. Whether you own a PS5, Xbox, or PC, there are plenty of 2-player coop games for you to choose from.

PS5: 5 Games You Can Play Together

Let's start with PlayStation 5. If you have one, you can go for one of the following releases that have been dubbed the best coop games PS5 has to offer:

• Returnal – team up with another player to go through the story mode and survive a time loop in a hostile alien world;
• It Takes Two – this original game is designed to be played only by two players, no more, no less;
• Elden Ring – yes, a fan-favorite fantasy game comes with three coop modes (Tarnished Furled Finger, Small Gold Effigy, and Finger Severer);
• Sackboy: A Big Adventure – you can enjoy this 3D platform video game either on your own or in the company of up to three other players;
• No Man's Sky – thanks to massive updates, you can now be the explorer of 18 quintillion planets with up to three others.

• Helldivers 2 – a 3rd person squad-based shooter that sees the elite forces of the Helldivers battling to win an intergalactic struggle to rid the galaxy of alien threats.
• Baldur's Gate 3 – the role-playing game is the third main installment in the Baldur's Gate series, based on the tabletop fantasy role-playing system of Dungeons & Dragons.

Xbox: 7 Co-Op Games to Play in a Group

And what about Xbox consoles? Don't worry: you can choose from tons of releases if you want to spend a few hours playing co-op with your friends.

These are more than just words. Here are the five best coop games Xbox allows you to play:

• Borderlands: The Handsome Collection – a first-person shooter with a four-player mode that you can play locally or online;
• Cuphead – another shooter inspired by 1930s cartoons, this entire game takes two to finish;
• Lego Marvel Collection – complete missions as your favorite superhero in this action-adventure game;
• Monster Hunter: World – you can band together with three more friends to hunt down monsters;
• Minecraft – no list would be complete without this sandbox that delivers the best co-op experiences.‍
• Diablo IV – an online-only continuation of the notorious Hack’n’Slash dungeon crawling game developed and published by Blizzard Entertainment.‍
• Remnant 2 – a third-person shooter action role-playing video game that pits survivors of humanity against new deadly creatures and god-like bosses across terrifying worlds.

What Are the Best Co-Op Games for Xbox One?

Are you an Xbox One gamer searching for coop games to pass the time? If so, here are seven top-rated co-op video games you should try:

• A Way Out (2 players);
• The Borderlands series (up to 4 players);
• Payday 2 (4 players);
• Monster Hunter: World (up to 4 players);
• Left 4 Dead 2 (up to 4 players);
• Saints Row 4 (up to 2 players);
• Sea of Thieves (up to 4 players).

5 Cool Co-Op VR Games

Are you among the lucky gamers that possess a VR headset? Don't limit yourself to single-player adventures!

Here are the five best coop VR games that'll take you to another world:

• Population: One – developed exclusively for VR, it allows you to experience a first-person shooter like never before with a squad of your friends;
• Beat Saber – if you want to show your moves and play with a saber, this game is for you (it has cool neon visuals, too!);
• Star Wars: Squadrons – this is a perfect game for those who'd like to experience space combat in the Star Wars universe first-hand;
• No Man's Sky – you can explore the 18 quintillion planets together with up to three friends in virtual reality;
• Phasmophobia – yes, this famous ghost-hunting horror game is also available in VR, multiplayer mode, and all!

What if You Own a PC?

For all the PC gamers among you, you're covered, too. There's no shortage of the best local coop games PC has to offer. The same goes for online co-op video games, too!

Need some examples of the best 2 player PC games? Here are seven titles that deserve to be called the best:

• It Takes Two (2 players);
• Minecraft (up to 30-40 players);
• Stardew Valley (2 to 4 players);
• Don't Starve Together (2 to 4 players);
• Satisfactory (2 to 4 players);
• Halo: The Master Chief Collection (2 to 4 players);
• Deep Rock Galactic (2 to 4 players);
• Biped (2 players);
• Bread & Fred (2 players).

7 PC Co-Op Games You Can Play on One Computer

Wondering what are the best pc coop games to play on one computer are? Wonder no more! Here are the seven best co-op games 2022 has to offer that you can enjoy in the local or couch cooperation mode:

• Rayman Legends (2 to 4 players);
• SpeedRunners (2 to 4 players);
• Overcooked! or Overcooked! 2 (2 to 4 players);
• It Takes Two (2 players only);
• A Way Out (2 players only);
• Keep Talking, and Nobody Explodes (2 to 4 players);
• Death Squared (2 to 4 players).

15 Best Co-Op Games of All Time

Now, let's get to what you've come here for the 13 best coop games of all time. We've meticulously crafted this list to make sure we recommend only the cream-of-the-crop titles to you and your friends.

No matter the year of the release, the games below have already become the classics of the co-op genre. They're guaranteed to bring you outstanding co-op gameplay – and tons of fun!

Cuphead

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, macOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

Number of players: 1-2

Often dubbed one of the best coop games of all time, Cuphead has it all: a diabolical plot, great gameplay – and of course, a chance to play with a friend!

In this run-and-gun game, you and your friend will play for Cuphead and Migman, two brothers who have to fight to repay their debt to the Devil himself. The game is inspired by 1930s cartoons – and has been turned into an animated TV show by Netflix in 2022!

Cuphead is a great pick for couch co-op – you don't need to go online to enjoy Cuphead. This makes it one of the best local coop games PC has in stock.

If you've already finished the base game, don't call it quits: there's a DLC you will enjoy if you liked it so far. Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course adds an extra mission and a new playable character, Ms. Chalice.

Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One

Number of players: unlimited

How about solving a puzzle as a team in a high-stakes situation? If you think this setup doesn't sound that interesting, think again. There's a good reason why Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes is among the best co-op games 2022 has in stock!

Here's how it goes. One person has the bomb, while others don't see it. The others need to find a way to diffuse a bomb before it explodes using a manual – and the countdown doesn't give you a lot of time. So, prepare for fast-paced, adrenaline-fused discussions!

VR compatibility is another reason this is one of the best co-op games 2022 has in stock. If you play it in VR, one person will have to wear the headset while others try to solve the puzzle.

Stardew Valley

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4/Vita, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One

Number of players: up to 4

This co-op game came out in 2016, but it's gained popularity among co-op enthusiasts as one of the best co-op games on Steam only recently.

Stardew Valley is your classic farming game wrapped in an 8-bit visual style package. You inherit a farm in Stardew Valley, and now it's up to you to turn it into a success.

While the setup may be somewhat simple, this game can easily get so immersive you'll have to hire dissertation writers because you've forgotten about an assignment due soon. Plus, you can invite up to three other users to play online with you!

So, if you're looking for the best 2-player PC games or just delightful co op RPG games to play online together, give Stardew Valley a chance.

A Way Out

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

Number of players: 2

A Way Out is one of those multiplayer adventure games that were conceived and designed to be 2 player coop games from the very start. There's no single-player mode: you can only play at two, be it locally or online.

Your aim in the game is to help Leo and Vincent, the two main characters, break out of prison. As you can expect, things don't go as expected – and so the two-player adventure begins!

Human: Fall Flat

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4/5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S/One

Number of players: up to 8

Looking for a game to make you laugh with its silly puzzles? Then this platformer is for you – it's one of the online co-op games PC offers if you're looking for a hilarious puzzle-solving adventure! You can try playing solo or invite up to seven friends to share the laughs with you.

All players take on the role of Bob, but you can customize the character's appearance. Your task? Get from the starting point to the finish line – and use physics to pave the way!

Minecraft

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Xbox 360/One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 3/4/Vita

Number of players: variable

You can't compile a list of co op strategy games and not include Minecraft! This sandbox video game has become a bestseller since its release in 2011 – and spawned sequels like Minecraft Legends and Minecraft Dungeons.

There's no explicit goal you have to achieve in the game. And that's what makes it awesome. You can explore various maps on your own or with friends via a LAN or online server. Console owners can also enjoy the split-screen co-op with up to three other Minecrafters.

Catastronauts

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X|S/One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch

Number of players: 2 to 4

Ready to team up to hold your ship together? If so, prepare for fast-paced gameplay – and alien invaders! You'll have to do emergency repairs, literally extinguish fires, destroy, clone your friends, and more.

Catastronauts isn't one of the online co op games PC offers: it's a local co-op game only. But that's its advantage, not a downside – this makes it a perfect game to play during a party or when you just hang out with friends.

Overcooked!

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X|S/One

Number of players: up to 4

There are two games in this franchise, Overcooked! and Overcooked! 2. The sequel, however, is a significant improvement of the original game. So, if you're looking for fun co-op games, opt for the sequel.

In Overcooked! 2, get ready to run increasingly ridiculous restaurants. The levels are chaotic and fast-paced – and not-at-all easy to complete!

To play this gem among the best co-op games of 2022 with friends, you can either hand out controllers and team up in person or get together online.

Own a console? Then you might've seen Overcooked: All You Can Eat among the new co op games for PlayStation 5 and Xbox X/S. That's a compilation game that includes both the original Overcooked! And its sequel.

Unspottable

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S/One, Nintendo Switch

Number of players: up to 8 

If you're looking for multiplayer co-op games that can be played only locally, Unspottable should be on your to-try list. There's no single-player or online co-op mode: you can enjoy it only when you and your friends hang out in person.

In Unspottable, you'll find yourself in a crowd of AI-generated characters. Your goal? Find the other players in this crowd – and punch the bot characters to reveal that they're robots!

Operation: Tango

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X|S/One, PlayStation 4/5

Number of players: 2

If you're a fan of espionage-themed plots, Operation: Tango is one of the best online coop games you'll stumble upon. The best part? It's designed for co-op play: it takes two to finish it.

In Operation: Tango, one player will take up the role of the Hacker, while the other one will become the Agent. You'll have to spy your way through multiple missions – and save the world in the process!

If you want to play online with a friend who doesn't own this game, the development team has you covered. You can invite them to join you for free!

Fling to the Finish

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS

Number of players: up to 4 players locally - 8 players online

How about a racing game with a cooperative twist? In Fling to the Finish, you and your partner are tethered by an elastic rope during the race!

You can use it to make physics help you cross obstacles. Or it can be your downfall. Will you manage to make it to the finish line – and outrace other players?

Fling to the Finish is one of those fun co op games on Steam you can play in many ways. You can decide on playing solo or launching a local co-op game. Or, you can also team up online!

Phasmophobia

Platforms: Microsoft Windows

Number of players: up to 4

Awarded the title of the Best Debut Game 2020, Phasmophobia is among the best coop horror games PC offers. Available only on Windows, it also supports VR. So, if you own a VR headset, this is a must-play.

The game itself revolves around paranormal investigations and ghost hunting. You'll have to gather as much paranormal activity evidence as possible using the special equipment. Prepare for jump scares and psychological horror!

Left 4 Dead 2

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, macOS, Linux

Number of players: up to 4

Left 4 Dead 2 is the oldest entry on this list, with its 2009 release year. But that's a testament to its status: time has shown that it's one of the best coop horror games PC offers.

This is a zombie survival game with all the markings of one. It has multiple modes, including a Realism one that turns off player respawning.

As for its co-op capabilities, you can go through the whole campaign with up to three other players. Yes, it's not a tacked-on co-op mode added as an afterthought!

Biped

Platform: PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows

Number of players: 2 players

"Biped" is an exciting cooperative action game that combines physics-based challenges with adventure. Join Aku and Sila as they embark on a thrilling journey to save Earth from impending darkness.

Explore 30 exotic stages filled with secrets waiting to be discovered. There's plenty of fun when playing solo or with a friend in local 2-player co-op mode. Collect treasures along the way and customize your bipeds to enhance your gaming experience.

Control the robot's two legs easily using either two sticks or left and right mouse buttons. From basic movements like walking and sliding to more complex actions such as operating machinery or cutting wood, master various moves to overcome obstacles and progress through the game.

Bread & Fred

Platform: Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS

Number of players: 2 players

"Bread & Fred" is a challenging cooperative platformer developed by Apogee, where two players must work together to navigate and ascend a snowy mountain. Play as both Bread and Fred in this demanding climb that demands precision with every jump. With each successful landing, you edge closer to the summit, but beware – a fall means a setback even further down the mountain. 

Bread and Fred are tethered together, allowing momentum to swing and propel each other forward. Utilize this unique mechanic to surpass obstacles and reach new heights. Be mindful of anchoring one of you down to prevent both from tumbling down. 

While the penguins' grip is limited, you can briefly cling to walls with your partner's help, swinging to overcome challenges. But act swiftly, as their chubby stature limits hanging time. Cooperation, timing, and quick thinking are key to conquering this mountainous journey.

6 New Co-Op Games to Try in 2024

As we dive headfirst into 2024, the gaming world continues to evolve with exciting new titles that promise to redefine the co-op experience. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just looking for a fresh adventure with friends, here are six upcoming top co op games that should be on your radar.

So, offload that reflection paper assignment and dive into these six games. And don't forget to invite your friends to share the adventure with you!

Galactic Outlaws: Heist Horizon

Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox

Get ready to assemble your crew and take on daring heists across the galaxy in Galactic Outlaws: Heist Horizon. This co-op space adventure combines strategic planning, intense firefights, and a dynamic narrative that adapts to your choices. Team up with friends to pull off the ultimate interstellar heist and become the galaxy's most notorious outlaws.

Chrono Keepers: Time Tumult

Platforms: PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, PC

Time travel meets cooperative gameplay in Chrono Keepers: Time Tumult. Join forces with friends to navigate through different eras, solving puzzles and facing challenges that span centuries. The game's innovative time mechanics add a unique twist to the co-op formula, making every moment a thrilling journey through history.

Mystic Forge: Realm Reckoning

Platforms: Xbox, PC

Immerse yourself in a fantastical world of magic and mystery in Mystic Forge: Realm Reckoning. This cooperative action RPG lets you and your friends explore enchanting realms, battle mythical creatures, and uncover the secrets of an ancient forge. With a deep crafting system and dynamic combat, teamwork is the key to mastering the mystic arts.

Tech Troopers: Cyber Siege

Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox

Gear up for high-tech co-op action in Tech Troopers: Cyber Siege. This futuristic game throws you into a world overrun by rogue AI, and it's up to you and your friends to reclaim control. Customize your trooper, strategize against intelligent enemies, and engage in adrenaline-pumping battles as you strive to save the digital frontier.

Aether Ascendants: Skybound Legends

Platforms: PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, PC

Soar to new heights in Aether Ascendants: Skybound Legends, a cooperative adventure set in a breathtaking sky realm. Team up with friends to explore floating islands, solve airborne puzzles, and engage in epic aerial battles. The game's emphasis on vertical exploration and unique flying mechanics promises a fresh and exhilarating co-op experience.

Lost Legends: Cursed Catacombs

Platforms: Xbox, PC

Delve into the depths of darkness in Lost Legends: Cursed Catacombs. This cooperative dungeon crawler combines intense combat, intricate level design, and a haunting atmosphere. Team up with your fellow adventurers to conquer cursed catacombs, facing off against undead horrors and discovering the mysteries hidden within the shadows.

What's the Best Co-Op Game of 2021-22?

If you have the time and means to try only one cooperative game, you'd want it to be a sure hit. You'd want it to be worth your time and money – and to be a sheer joy to play together.

But which one is the best among the best co-op games 2022 has in stock? We've looked through the latest releases and settled on one particular 2021 game. Its one-of-a-kind gameplay and design were recognized by multiple awards – and you'll enjoy every second of playing it!

It Takes Two – the Award-Winning Game

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X|S/One, Nintendo Switch

Number of players: 2

In It Takes Two, you'll take on the roles of May and Cody; two humans turned into dolls. Each character has special abilities – and one can't finish the level without the help of the other.

It Takes Two stands out among other co op story games thanks to its signature blend of various game genre mechanics, engaging story, and co-op-only gameplay.

But don't take just our word for it. It Takes Two is one of the new coop games with multiple accolades. It's won nine awards so far:

• Golden Joystick Awards 2021: Best Multiplayer Game;
• The Game Awards 2021: Best Multiplayer Game, Best Family Game, Game of the Year;
• Game Developers Choice Awards 2022: Best Design;
• 25th Annual DICE Awards (2022): Outstanding Achievement in Game Design, Game of the Year;
• 18th British Academy Games Awards (2022): Multiplayer Game, Original Property.

What's the Best Co-Op Game of 2023?

In the ever-expanding landscape of cooperative gaming, it's often challenging to find a title that not only lives up to the hype but surpasses it. After an exhaustive exploration of the latest releases, one game emerges as the epitome of co-op excellence in 2023 – Baldur's Gate 3: Realms Reborn. Developed by the acclaimed Larian Studios, this game not only boasts a seamless multiplayer experience but also delves deep into the realms of storytelling, strategy, and visual brilliance.

Team Up for Fun: Imagine a game where you and your buddies can team up and each control a cool character with special powers. That's Baldur's Gate 3 for you! It's like going on an epic quest with your friends, and trust me, it's way more fun than going solo.

Fight Smart, Not Hard: No button-mashing here! Baldur's Gate 3 brings in turn-based battles that make you think strategically. You and your friends need to work together, combining your character's skills to beat the bad guys. It's like planning the ultimate game-winning strategy with your pals – total game-changer!

Your Story, Your Way: Ever played a game where your choices actually matter? In Baldur's Gate 3, the story adapts to what you and your friends decide. Every choice you make shapes the game, making it YOUR unique adventure. It's like watching your favorite movie, but you get to decide what happens next!

Looks That Wow: Get ready for a visual feast! Baldur's Gate 3 is not just fun to play; it's a treat for your eyes. The characters look super cool, and the world is so detailed – it's like being inside a movie. You won't be able to take your eyes off the screen!

Play Anytime, Anywhere: The best part? You can play with your friends whenever you want! Baldur's Gate 3 makes it easy for friends to jump in or out of the game without any hassle. Whether you're exploring dungeons or taking on big bosses, the more, the merrier!

So, if you're on the hunt for the ultimate co-op game of 2023, look no further than Baldur's Gate 3: Realms Reborn. It's got teamwork, strategy, a killer story, amazing graphics, and it's just plain fun. Grab your friends, get those controllers ready, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime!