Cooperative play is intrinsic to gaming. Some of my earliest (and best) gaming memories are of hours-long gaming sessions with friends. There’s a reason why Hazelight Studios’ Split Fiction and It Takes Two were so well received — people love playing games with others. Bonus points if you don’t need two copies of the game, or can do so from the same couch.
Whether you’re looking for a couch co-op or logging in with others across the internet, these are the best games to jump into with your friends.
Best co-op games right now
- Split Fiction
- It Takes Two
- Helldivers 2
- Elden Ring Nightreign
- Baldur’s Gate 3
Best co-op games for two players
These games are best experienced with one other person, so grab a friend and get to work. A few in this section, like Split Fiction, It Takes Two and Cuphead, only require one copy of the game, which makes it even easier to play.
Best co-op games for four players
These games are better experienced with a crew at your back. Squad up with three friends and get ready to squash alien bugs, hunt monsters or battle waves of demons.
Best single-player games with co-op
These games are primarily single-player adventures, but they do support bringing along a friend or three. Whether you’re passing the controller back and forth or dropping in and out, try these games solo or with friends.
Best free co-op games
You don’t always have to shell out to play with friends. Here are a few free options.
