Almost all of us have tried a cooperative game at least once—whether with a friend or a family member. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the six best co-op games – a mix of big releases and indie gems – that guarantee a fun and memorable time no matter who you’re playing with.
Let’s begin!
We Were Here Forever: Co-op Puzzle Game
The We Were Here series is one of the best puzzle-based cooperative experiences you can find, but We Were Here Forever stands as the strongest entry by far. You and your partner play as two trapped miners trying to escape an eerie, mysterious location by solving puzzles that require complete cooperation.
The game forces both players to communicate constantly—describing symbols, objects, and clues the other cannot see. This is where the design shines: it makes teamwork the core of progression. I spent five hilarious hours playing it with a friend, and it’s one of the easiest recommendations on this list.
A Way Out: Narrative Co-op Adventure
A Way Out is one of the best EA Originals and a standout narrative co-op experience from Hazelight Studios. Think of it as a story-driven, mission-based adventure with crime and drama elements—similar in spirit to GTA, but without the open world.
Before the release of It Takes Two, this game set the standard for split-screen cooperative storytelling. You play as Vincent and Leo, two inmates who clash at first but eventually form a bond and plan an escape driven by their individual motives.
The story evolves into a thrilling journey of revenge, trust, and teamwork, filled with clever set-pieces and puzzle-like sections that rely on both players coordinating. If you’re into cinematic co-op adventures, this one is essential.
Overcooked 2: Local Co-op Chaos
Developed by Team17, Overcooked 2 is one of the funniest and most chaotic local multiplayer games ever created. You and up to three friends run a frantic kitchen—cooking, serving dishes, and washing plates before time runs out.
Don’t let the cute visuals fool you. The game is surprisingly tough and demands timing, communication, and quick reactions. Yet its charm and simple design make it enjoyable for all ages, perfect for family gatherings or game nights.
Baldur’s Gate 3: RPG Co-op
After the success of Divinity: Original Sin 2, Larian Studios returned with something even bigger: Baldur’s Gate 3, which launched in its full version in August 2023 after years in early access.
The game was widely celebrated as a new benchmark for CRPGs thanks to its deep story, flexible world design, and incredible replay value. While it works beautifully as a single-player campaign, co-op mode is far from an afterthought.
Players can join each other’s campaigns or start a new adventure together. With split-screen support, each player can explore independently—even wandering off to different areas. It’s a brilliant co-op experience that gives both players agency rather than forcing them to stick together.
Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes: Co-op Communication Challenge
One of the strangest—and funniest—games on this list. The concept is simple: one player is trapped in a room with a bomb, while the other has a manual explaining how to defuse it. The catch? The expert cannot see the bomb, and the defuser cannot see the manual.
This forces both players to communicate efficiently, and that’s exactly what friends tend to fail at—making the chaos even more fun. The game supports local co-op, online play, and even VR.
It’s available on PC, PS4, iPhone, and Android.
It Takes Two: The Ultimate Co-op Adventure
It Takes Two is considered the peak of cooperative games. It’s one of EA Originals’ finest releases, made by Hazelight Studios and directed by Josef Fares. It won Game of the Year for a reason.
The entire game is built around cooperation—you cannot play it solo. The narrative follows a couple on the verge of separation who are magically transformed into dolls and must work together to return to their bodies. Through their journey, the game explores themes of communication, understanding, and partnership.
Gameplay-wise, the level design is exceptionally creative, with environmental puzzles and challenges that require consistent teamwork. It’s fun for adults, meaningful in its message, and suitable for almost any audience. Highly recommended.
The game is available on last-gen and current-gen consoles and through Xbox Game Pass via EA Play.
Best Co-op Games Photo Gallery
These were our picks for the best co-op games to enjoy with friends or family. Did any of them catch your eye? Let us know in the comments!
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