Playing games with friends and family elevates the experience, adding a layer of shared enjoyment that single-player games often miss. While the PlayStation 5 boasts an impressive library of single-player titles, the best gaming memories are often forged through collaborative gameplay. Whether you prefer competitive or cooperative experiences, the PS5 offers a diverse range of multiplayer options, many with cross-platform support. This article highlights the best co-op games available on the PS5, spanning various genres to cater to different preferences. So, gather your friends and dive into these incredible shared adventures.
Co-op Adventures for Every Gamer
From challenging roguelikes to relaxing farming simulators, the PS5 offers co-op experiences for every taste. Here are some of the top picks:
Returnal: Co-op Roguelike Thrills
Returnal Co-op
Returnal, initially a single-player experience, received a free DLC that introduced a full co-op mode, breathing new life into this challenging roguelike. Players team up as Seline to navigate a hostile alien world, battling deadly creatures and mastering the intricate bullet hell-style combat. Co-op allows players to revive each other and share the burden of the game’s difficulty spikes, making it a more accessible and rewarding experience. Sharing the thrill of overcoming challenging bosses and exploring the procedurally generated environments adds a new dimension to Returnal’s intense gameplay.
Elden Ring: Conquering the Lands Between Together
Elden Ring Co-op
Elden Ring, the acclaimed Souls-like masterpiece, offers a unique co-op experience within its sprawling open world. While limited in certain aspects, teaming up with a friend to explore dungeons and conquer challenging bosses is immensely satisfying. The cooperative element mitigates the game’s notorious difficulty, allowing players to strategize, share resources, and revel in shared victories. Though summoning mechanics require specific items, they’re readily available, making co-op a seamless and integral part of the Elden Ring experience.
It Takes Two: A Co-op Masterpiece
It Takes Two Gameplay
Designed exclusively for co-op play, It Takes Two is a testament to the power of collaborative gameplay. With constantly evolving mechanics and innovative level design, it’s a platforming adventure that demands teamwork and communication. While the narrative might not appeal to everyone, the sheer variety and ingenuity of the gameplay make It Takes Two a must-play for any co-op enthusiast.
Helldivers 2: Chaotic Co-op Fun
Helldivers 2 Action
Helldivers 2 revitalizes the franchise with its chaotic third-person shooter action. Teaming up with friends to battle hordes of bugs and robots in the name of Democracy is a thrilling and often hilarious experience. The game thrives on its over-the-top action and the constant struggle for survival, making every successful mission a testament to teamwork and resilience.
Sackboy: A Big Adventure: Family-Friendly Platforming
Sackboy Adventure
Sackboy: A Big Adventure brings the charm of Little Big Planet to a more traditional platforming experience. With vibrant levels, charming characters, and accessible gameplay, it’s a perfect choice for families. Supporting up to four players, Sackboy offers a delightful co-op experience that caters to both casual and experienced gamers. Its optional challenges and trials add replayability for those seeking a greater challenge.
No Man’s Sky: Exploring the Universe Together
No Man's Sky Exploration
No Man’s Sky has evolved dramatically since its launch, transforming into a vast and engaging space exploration game. With full co-op support, players can explore, build bases, and embark on quests together in a seemingly infinite universe. Regular free updates and events ensure a constantly evolving experience, making No Man’s Sky a perfect co-op adventure for those who crave exploration and discovery.
Stardew Valley: Relaxing Co-op Farming
Stardew Valley Farm
Stardew Valley offers a relaxing and rewarding co-op experience centered around farming, building, and community. Players can share the joys of cultivating their farm, interacting with villagers, and enjoying the peaceful rhythm of rural life. Co-op allows for efficient task management and accelerates progress towards building a thriving farm, fostering a sense of shared accomplishment.
Destiny 2: Co-op Looter Shooter Action
Destiny 2 Gameplay
Destiny 2 is a free-to-play looter shooter that shines in its co-op offerings. From story missions to challenging raids, teamwork is at the heart of the Destiny 2 experience. The game’s well-paced progression system and satisfying gunplay make it a compelling choice for co-op enthusiasts, especially those who enjoy the thrill of acquiring powerful loot and tackling challenging endgame content.
Diablo IV: Demon Slaying with Friends
Diablo IV Action
Diablo IV brings the classic dungeon-crawling experience to a new generation, offering a satisfying co-op experience. Playing different classes and synergizing skills adds a strategic layer to the gameplay, while the constant pursuit of loot keeps players engaged. The seasonal model with regular updates ensures a fresh and evolving experience for those who embrace the grind.
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands: Co-op Loot and Laughter
Tiny Tina's Wonderlands
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands delivers a unique blend of Borderlands-style shooting and tabletop RPG elements. The humorous narrative and creative setting make it a lighthearted and engaging co-op experience. Experimenting with different builds and synergizing abilities with friends adds depth to the gameplay, making it a fun and rewarding adventure.
The Jackbox Party Pack 10: The Ultimate Party Game
Jackbox Party Pack 10
The Jackbox Party Pack 10 is the perfect choice for casual co-op fun. With a variety of accessible minigames that require only a smartphone, it’s a great way to include everyone in the fun, regardless of their gaming experience. The emphasis on humor and creativity makes Jackbox an ideal choice for parties and social gatherings, fostering laughter and friendly competition.
Baldur’s Gate 3: A Tabletop RPG Brought to Life
Baldur's Gate 3 Adventure
Baldur’s Gate 3 translates the freedom and flexibility of Dungeons & Dragons into a rich and engaging video game experience. With robust co-op support, players can explore, fight, and make choices together, shaping their shared narrative in meaningful ways. The game’s open-ended nature and deep RPG mechanics provide endless possibilities for cooperative adventures.
Outriders: Co-op Shooter with Unique Classes
Outriders Action
Outriders blends elements of Gears of War, Borderlands, and Diablo into a unique third-person shooter experience. With distinct classes and a focus on loot and abilities, playing in a squad is the optimal way to enjoy Outriders. The game’s challenging difficulty scaling and lack of a live service model make it a rewarding and self-contained co-op adventure.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Co-op Adventure
The PlayStation 5 offers a wealth of co-op experiences to explore with friends and family. From action-packed shooters to relaxing simulations, there’s a game for every preference. Whether you’re looking for a challenging adventure, a lighthearted party game, or a deep RPG experience, the PS5’s co-op library has something to offer. So, gather your friends, choose your adventure, and create lasting gaming memories together.
