It can be difficult to find video games that offer the option to play with a loved one in the same room, as online multiplayer has become more common in recent years. However, if you’re looking for some cooperative fun, we have compiled a list of 10 of the best couch co-op games that we have personally enjoyed on platforms such as the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. These games are true cooperative experiences, rather than games that have local multiplayer but are not truly cooperative in practice (such as Mario Kart or Jackbox). Our list includes a range of genres, including platformers, puzzlers, RPGs, and arcade shooters.
Number 1. Rayman Legends (Switch, PS4, XBox, PC)
Rayman Legends is a unique 2D platformer that is more whimsical than games like Donkey Kong and Mario. Instead of the polished environments and precise geometry found in those games, Rayman Legends has more abstract, cartoony, and humorous elements. The gameplay is slightly less precise, but still fast-paced and entertaining, with many optional rooms and collectibles to discover in each stage. This is a lighthearted and unpretentious game that is made even more enjoyable with friends, as it becomes more frantic and enjoyable as you work together.
Number 2. It Takes Two (Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox, PC)
It Takes Two is a 3D platformer that is specifically designed to be played in co-op mode, making it one of the few full-scale, narrative-driven games to offer this experience. It avoids the common pitfalls of many co-op games by rarely requiring both players to do the same thing at the same time, and it keeps things fresh by constantly introducing new concepts. While some levels may feel a bit long, the game’s bouncy movement is enjoyable throughout. However, the overly saccharine and somewhat dark story about divorce may not be as satisfying for some players. Despite this, It Takes Two is generally a delightful game to play with a friend, as long as you can overlook the questionable dialogue.
Number 3. Streets of Rage 4 (Switch, PS4, Xbox, PC)
Streets of Rage 4 is a revival of the classic series of side-scrolling beat ’em up games from the Sega Genesis, which are still enjoyable co-op experiences in their own right. In this game, you move to the right and defeat waves of enemies with a variety of punches, kicks, throws, and special moves. The hand-drawn animation style and energetic soundtrack are both excellent, and most of the set pieces effectively convey the feeling of “rage.” While this game may not be the most ambitious, it successfully recaptures the thrill, style, and refinement of the classic beat ’em up genre. For a more accessible and simpler throwback brawler, you may also want to consider Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge.
Number 4. Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga (Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox, PC)
Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is a lighthearted game that takes you through the nine main Star Wars films using Lego characters. Like most Lego games, it is easy to play and involves collecting items and defeating enemies. The game’s sense of humor is one of its best features, as the shortened versions of each film are filled with amusing gags and references. There are many side quests and collectibles beyond the main narrative, but many of these are repetitive and the game’s systems are not complex enough to make optional content particularly interesting. However, if you focus on the main content, you will likely find Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga to be a fun and affectionate tribute to some inherently silly films.
Number 5. Halo: The Master Chief Collection (Xbox, PC)
Halo: The Master Chief Collection includes remastered versions of the first six mainline Halo games, which offer precise controls and pacing that surpass many first-person shooters released since their original release. The campaign of the original Halo game, in particular, is considered essential. While some of the later narratives in the collection may seem bizarre (such as Halo 4), the overall tone of the games strikes a good balance between humor and intensity. Unfortunately, Halo Infinite does not include the option for couch co-op play, but the classic games in the collection still offer enjoyable local multiplayer on Xbox (though not on PC). You can have fun driving Warthogs and using dual space guns with a friend in these classic games.
Number 6. Overcooked! All you can eat (Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox and PC)
In the Overcooked! games, you and up to three friends play as chefs tasked with preparing various meals within a time limit. The goal is to grab the correct ingredients, prepare them properly, and send out the finished plate on time. However, as the orders pile up and obstacles appear in the levels, your ability to communicate and work efficiently under pressure is challenged. The cute graphics and humor of the game make it enjoyable, but overcoming the chaos of the most difficult levels provides a sense of accomplishment. The All You Can Eat edition includes the original Overcooked! and its superior sequel, Overcooked 2!, along with all of their DLC. It also includes an “assist mode” that allows you to increase the time limit for each order, which may be necessary if you and your friends become too stressed out while trying to chop cartoon fish.
Number 7. Cuphead (Switch, PS4, Xbox, PC)
Cuphead is a stunning run-and-gun shooter that has beautiful animation and a catchy soundtrack, making it feel like a playable cartoon from the 1930s. The story, about two talking cups who make a deal with the Devil, fits perfectly with the art style. However, playing Cuphead is a challenging experience, with difficult boss fights that require intense concentration. Playing in co-op mode makes the game even harder, as the bosses have more health and the presence of two characters can make the action more chaotic. Despite the difficulty, overcoming each fight is satisfying, and if you enjoy a bit of masochism, Cuphead is worth playing. A recent DLC expansion only adds to the excitement of the game.
Number 8. Wilmot’s Warehouse (Switch, PS4, Xbox, PC)
Wilmot’s Warehouse is a unique game that tasks you with organizing a warehouse that is constantly growing. At the start of each level, you receive a batch of colorful boxes that you must gather and store within a certain time limit. You can choose how to organize the boxes however you want. When the timer ends, customers will request specific products, and your challenge becomes retrieving the corresponding boxes as quickly as possible. The game allows you to come up with a system that allows you to remember where everything is and adapt to new box types as they arrive. There is a sense of urgency in completing orders, and the game has a dark undercurrent as two warehouse workers compete to be efficient. Despite this, Wilmot’s Warehouse manages to make the act of creating order from chaos into a relaxing experience.
Number 9. Escape Academy (PS4, PS5, Xbox, PC)
Escape Academy is essentially a series of digital escape rooms that you can play with a partner. Your goal is to find clues, decode messages, and solve puzzles to escape a locked room within a set time limit. Just like in a real escape room, playing Escape Academy can involve some shouting, but it encourages continuous communication and provides a sense of accomplishment. The puzzles in the game are diverse, but perhaps a little too easy, and the overarching narrative is not particularly noteworthy. However, if you and a partner have been wanting to try a real escape room, Escape Academy can be a fun substitute for a few afternoons.
Number 10. Wizard of Legend (Switch, PS4, Xbox, PC)
Wizard of Legend is a fast-paced, top-down 2D dungeon crawler that focuses on skill. It is a roguelike game in which you and your partner must figure out how to chain attacks using your arsenal of spells. The gameplay is smooth and the pixelated art style is pleasing to the eye. While it may not convince those who are not fans of roguelike games to give it a try, Wizard of Legend is still an enjoyable game for those who enjoy the genre.
