Video games have come a long way since the days of Pong and Pac-Man. Today, they’re not just about sitting alone in front of a screen, but rather they offer an incredible shared experience. When you’re in the mood for some bonding with a friend, few things can beat the satisfaction of playing an online co-op game. They bring together a mix of teamwork, competition, and exciting narratives that can really make your gaming sessions an event to remember.
So, whether you’re looking for the next big thing in gaming or just trying to find a new way to connect with your friends, here are the 15 best two-player online co-op games that will keep you and your gaming buddy entertained for hours.
Divinity: Original Sin 2
Developed by Larian Studios, Divinity: Original Sin 2 is a role-playing game (RPG) that truly shines in cooperative play. This game allows you to explore an expansive world, design characters with unique abilities, and influence a rich storyline with your choices. All these aspects work together to create a deep, engaging multiplayer experience that is just as enjoyable with two players as it is with four.
Portal 2
Valve’s iconic puzzle-platformer Portal 2 extends the ingenious design of its predecessor by introducing a dedicated co-op mode. Here, you and a friend will have to use the power of portals, lateral thinking, and teamwork to solve tricky, brain-bending puzzles. The game’s balance of humor and innovative design makes it a timeless co-op classic.
A Way Out
A Way Out, developed by Hazelight Studios, offers an exclusively co-op experience. It’s a story-driven adventure where you and a friend control two prisoners trying to escape from jail and thereafter, live on the run. The game’s split-screen mechanic and the requirement for simultaneous action and teamwork make it a must-play for co-op lovers.
Overcooked! 2
If you’re looking for something light-hearted and chaotic, Overcooked! 2 is the game for you. Developed by Team17, this game will have you and your friend scrambling in the kitchen, as you attempt to prepare, cook, and serve a variety of dishes before time runs out. It’s a true test of coordination and communication, ensuring plenty of laughter along the way.
Sea of Thieves
Rare’s Sea of Thieves is an action-adventure game that places you and your partner in the roles of pirates sailing the high seas. This game offers a shared-world experience where you can engage in naval battles, search for treasure, and explore a vast, open-world filled with danger and intrigue. It’s an exhilarating co-op experience, especially when you’re plotting your next move on the digital seas.
Borderlands 3
When it comes to loot-shooter co-op games, Borderlands 3 by Gearbox Software is a hard one to beat. It boasts an eccentric cast of characters, a huge variety of weapons, and a campaign that’s designed to be enjoyed with a friend. Borderlands 3’s humor, as well as its vibrant, stylized visuals, make it a distinct and memorable experience.
Monster Hunter: World
In Capcom’s Monster Hunter: World, you and your friend can team up to hunt gigantic monsters in a rich, living ecosystem. The game blends strategic combat, weapon crafting, and character customization to create a co-op experience where each hunt feels like a unique, challenging expedition.
Risk of Rain 2
Risk of Rain 2 is a roguelike third-person shooter developed by Hopoo Games. In this game, you and a friend can work together to battle hordes of monsters, unlock new loot, and find a way to escape the planet. With each playthrough offering different challenges, this game offers a ton of replay value.
Deep Rock Galactic
In Deep Rock Galactic, developed by Ghost Ship Games, you and your partner can play as dwarf space miners, venturing into the dangerous depths of various caves to extract precious resources, all while battling hordes of alien creatures. It’s a unique blend of exploration, combat, and teamwork.
Hunt: Showdown
Developed by Crytek, Hunt: Showdown is a unique mix of PvP and PvE elements set in the late 1890s. In this game, you and a partner are bounty hunters tasked with hunting down horrific creatures for a reward. But watch out – other players are also on the hunt and won’t hesitate to take you down to claim the bounty for themselves.
Fortnite
Epic Games’ Fortnite has taken the world by storm with its free-to-play Battle Royale mode. However, its lesser-known “Save the World” mode is a cooperative multiplayer campaign that requires teamwork and strategy, making it an ideal choice for two-player online co-op gaming.
Stardew Valley
For those who prefer a relaxing co-op experience, Stardew Valley by ConcernedApe is an indie gem. This farming simulation game offers cooperative play, allowing you and a friend to work together to build a thriving farm, explore mysterious caves, and even woo the locals.
Destiny 2
In Bungie’s Destiny 2, you and your friend can partake in an online-only multiplayer first-person shooter experience. With its exciting story missions, high-stakes raids, and dynamic PvP content, Destiny 2 provides plenty of opportunities for cooperative play.
Resident Evil 5
Despite being a survival horror game, Resident Evil 5 by Capcom is built with co-op gameplay at its core. The entire campaign can be played with a friend, offering tense and thrilling moments that are even better when shared.
Dying Light
For those looking for a co-op game with a dash of horror, Dying Light by Techland offers a unique blend of parkour and zombie survival. You and your partner can explore an open world filled with danger and opportunity, using your skills to survive against a city overrun by the infected.
Bonus game: The Jackbox Party Packs include a few great games for 2 and more players.
What makes a great two-player co-op game?
Creating a great two-player co-op game involves a mix of innovative design, compelling gameplay mechanics, and an engaging storyline. Here are some essential features that make a co-op game truly stand out:
Cooperative Gameplay Mechanics
At the heart of a good co-op game is the concept of teamwork. It’s not just about having two players in the game; the game mechanics themselves should encourage cooperation. Players should feel that they are genuinely working together to achieve a common goal, whether that’s solving puzzles, defeating enemies, or completing quests.
Balanced Roles and Abilities
In co-op games, it’s vital that each player feels they are contributing equally to the game’s objectives. This often means that players have complementary abilities or roles, adding a layer of strategy as players must figure out how best to combine their strengths and mitigate their weaknesses.
Shared Challenges and Rewards
A great co-op game ensures that challenges and victories are shared. When one player accomplishes something, both should benefit. This mutual reliance intensifies the bonds between players and makes victories even sweeter.
Engaging Storyline
A captivating narrative can elevate a co-op game from good to great. Story elements give players a common purpose and shared investment in the game world. This is why many of the best co-op games have immersive stories that both players can get lost in.
Good Communication Features
Since co-op games require teamwork, effective communication is crucial. Whether it’s integrated voice chat or a well-designed ping system, good communication tools can make cooperative gameplay smoother and more enjoyable.
Player Progression
Progression systems give players a sense of accomplishment and keep them coming back for more. This could take the form of leveling up, acquiring new gear, unlocking new abilities, or even narrative progression.
Scalable Difficulty
A good co-op game should scale its difficulty according to the number of players. This ensures that the game remains challenging and exciting, regardless of whether it’s being played solo or with a partner.
