Best Co-Op Games for PS5: Your Guide to Multiplayer Fun

Local co-op games, abbreviated for local cooperative games, transcend the traditional solitary gaming experience by inviting friends and local gamers to embark on a shared digital adventure. This collaborative gameplay strongly emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and collective problem-solving, ensuring a fully immersive and engaging experience for all participants.

The cooperative mechanics embedded in local co-op games cultivate a profound sense of teamwork and mutual reliance. Players find themselves strategizing together, synchronizing their efforts, and reveling in shared victories as a cohesive unit. This dynamic fosters a unique bond, whether playing with close friends or forming alliances with fellow gamers in the local gaming sphere.

Beyond the immediate joy of shared triumphs, local cooperative gameplay is a learning platform. Players are exposed to diverse playstyles, problem-solving approaches, and tactical maneuvers, enriching their gaming expertise through firsthand experience. In an era where online connectivity is more significant than ever, local co-op games become a conduit for building lasting connections and friendships within the immediate gaming community.

As we explore each of the best local multiplayer PS5 games, ready yourself for worlds in which cooperation is not merely optional but a cornerstone. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the local cooperative gaming scene, these carefully chosen selections will deliver an extraordinary journey that is not about highlighting moments and data processing but the camaraderie from shared conquests and tales among allies within the digital land of realms. From thrilling adventures in two player PS5 games to the excitement of couch co-op PS5 experiences, these games offer the best in cooperative gaming.

Local co-op games bring a distinct and unparalleled level of fun and engagement to the gaming experience, offering a host of unique qualities that set them apart in the gaming landscape. For those seeking the best PlayStation games, local co-op titles provide some of the most memorable and enjoyable experiences on the platform.

Social Interaction

• Immediate Connection. Local co-op games facilitate face-to-face interactions, allowing players to share the gaming experience in the same physical space. This instant connection boosts the fun, allowing friends and family to chat, plan, and cheer on wins together, making long-lasting memories as a team.
• Shared Space. The shared physical environment contributes to a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Laughing, teasing, and friendly rivalry are crucial elements of the gaming experience, forming unforgettable moments that extend beyond the digital world and nurturing close relationships.

Camaraderie and Teamwork

• In-Person Collaboration. Being physically present with fellow players fosters a deeper sense of teamwork. The ability to communicate through gestures, expressions, and quick verbal exchanges enhances the coordination among players, making cooperative strategies more intuitive and engaging. If you want to recommend video games that emphasize teamwork, local co-op games are perfect.
• Immediate Feedback. Local co-op games allow instant feedback and adjustment. Players can react to each other's actions in real-time, leading to more organic and dynamic gameplay experiences.

Shared Victories and Challenges

• Collective Triumphs. Celebrating victories together creates a unique sense of achievement. Whether it's completing a challenging level or overcoming a formidable boss, the shared joy amplifies the overall satisfaction of success.
• Mutual Problem-Solving. Facing challenges as a team requires mutual problem-solving. Local co-op games often present puzzles and obstacles that demand collaborative thinking, encouraging players to pool their skills and creativity.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

• All Skill Levels Welcome. Local co-op games often cater to players of varying skill levels. This inclusivity allows both seasoned gamers and newcomers to enjoy the experience together, fostering a sense of community and eliminating barriers that may exist in more competitive gaming environments.
• Family-Friendly. Many local co-op games are designed with family play in mind. The accessibility and cooperative nature make them suitable for players of different ages, making gaming a shared activity for families and friends.

Unpredictable Dynamics

• Emergent Gameplay. The in-person dynamics of local co-op often lead to emergent gameplay. Unexpected twists, spontaneous strategies, and improvised plans emerge naturally during gameplay, adding an element of unpredictability that keeps the experience fresh and exciting.

Technological advancements have greatly enhanced local co-op gaming. Improved graphics deliver beautiful, intricate game worlds and immersive sound design provides a sense of richness with enhanced sound quality. Responsive controls, like the PS5's DualSense controller, offer haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, adding a new level of physicality to gameplay. Additionally, advancements in AI technology ensure that non-playable characters (NPCs) and in-game challenges are more intelligent and responsive, providing a more dynamic and challenging gaming experience.

It is important to note that playing local co-op games can also help improve your mental health by reducing stress and strengthening social connections. They tackle solitude & ensure you belong to a larger family. Local co-op games have a lot more social interactions, teamwork, and shared experiences that will bring them together in great fun. The ability to connect with others in the same physical space enhances the gaming experience, making local co-op games a cherished and enduring choice for players seeking communal enjoyment.

For those looking for video game recommendations, it's clear that the best PlayStation games often include robust local co-op options. Whether you're looking to recommend video games to friends or find new favorites for yourself, exploring the top local co-op titles on PlayStation is a great place to start.

It Takes Two was developed by Hazelight Studios and published by Electronic Arts under the EA Originals label. The game was released on March 26, 2021, and runs on the Unreal Engine 4. Directed by Josef Fares, known for his previous work on A Way Out, the game emphasizes cooperative mechanics.

The genre of It Takes Two is action-adventure and platforming, with a narrative-driven storyline that seamlessly integrates into its varied gameplay mechanics. The game was developed to be played either locally on the same console or online with a friend, making it a versatile choice for co-op enthusiasts.

Embark on an adventure in It Takes Two, a platformer designed for cooperative play. Use the Friend's Pass to invite a companion for free and navigate a range of chaotic gameplay challenges. Play as Cody and May, a couple turned into dolls by a mystical spell, and work together to mend their fractured relationship.

Master interconnected character abilities to overcome various obstacles. Enjoy laughter-inducing moments as you encounter gangster squirrels, pilot underpants, manage a nightclub, and ride a bobsleigh through a magical snow globe. Each level offers a fresh and unexpected experience. The game's unique approach to storytelling and character abilities sets a new standard for the best couch co op games PS5.

A little over a month after its release on PC, Baldur's Gate 3 has made the leap to PS5 with Larian Studios' ambitious project remaining intact. Drawing inspiration from Dungeons & Dragons, this RPG retains its depth in combat, customization, playing team roles, and co-op functionality. Notably, Baldur's Gate 3 pays homage to its tabletop roots by allowing players to establish a co-op campaign save file, fostering a communal experience. Recognizing the commitment this entails, the game also welcomes new players to seamlessly join ongoing playthroughs, making it one of the top co op story mode games available.

Within a sprawling and intricate world, Larian has crafted a profound RPG that places a premium on player decisions, particularly within its secondary content. The game features a large, detailed world filled with diverse locations, characters, and quests, encouraging exploration and interaction. While the turn-based combat system may initially overwhelm those unfamiliar with the studio's prior works, its long-term rewards become evident, offering depth and variety in encounters. Players are free to pursue individual paths and decide when to converge in the realm of co-op, promoting a collaborative experience that complements the game's expansive narrative and gameplay intricacies. This feature makes it remarkable among games to play with friends, offering a rich and immersive shared experience.

Haven was developed and published by The Game Bakers. The game was released on December 3, 2020, for PlayStation 5 and other platforms. It runs on the Unity engine, which helps deliver its beautiful, stylized visuals and smooth performance.

Numerous cooperative games cater to couples, providing shared entertainment and strengthening relationships. While many co-op titles excel with friends, gems like Haven offer a uniquely fulfilling journey for lovers, making it one of the best PS5 games for couples.

In Haven, players delve into the narrative of a romantic duo stranded on a mysterious planet, navigating the challenges of coexisting with the alien life that inhabits this enigmatic world. The game strikes a harmonious balance, blending relaxation, engagement, and punctuations of excitement through exploration and battles. The storyline, characterized by realism, captivates players, offering a genuinely engaging experience. Haven not only weaves an enticing narrative but also presents a visually stunning spectacle, especially when played on the immersive platform of the PS5.

For developers and players, Haven showcases how a game can successfully blend narrative depth with cooperative mechanics. Its compelling story, beautiful graphics, and seamless co-op gameplay make it an exceptional title among two player games on PS5.

Released on March 26, 2021, Balan Wonderworld was a collaborative effort between developers Balan Company and Arzest, and was published by Square Enix, running on the Unity engine.
When Yuji Naka, the visionary behind Sonic the Hedgehog, unveiled his work on a new 3D platformer, anticipation soared. The involvement of Square Enix in publishing and assumedly contributing to Balan Wonderworld only heightened this initial enthusiasm. While the final game might not have met the lofty expectations, it still holds merit and deserves consideration.

Balan Wonderworld stands out as an exceptionally peculiar video game, characterized by perplexing design choices and a myriad of bewildering themes. Notable features include its wide array of costumes that grant players unique abilities, encouraging constant experimentation and adaptation. The game’s strikingly diverse environments add to its mesmerizing quality, making it challenging to look away. Players find themselves constantly on the edge, speculating about the next wave of eccentricities that will unfold. The co-op mode allows players to navigate these bizarre landscapes together, enhancing the shared experience of bewilderment and embracing the randomness that defines this unique gaming adventure.

Human: Fall Flat is a standout among two player PlayStation games, offering a cooperative experience that emphasizes creativity, problem-solving, and humor. Developed by No Brakes Games and published by Curve Digital, the game utilizes the Unity engine and was first released on July 22, 2016. Over time, it has seen numerous updates and expansions, enhancing its gameplay and adding new levels.

Key features include its highly interactive environments where players can manipulate almost every object, promoting creativity and teamwork. The game’s physics-based puzzles require players to experiment and collaborate to progress, adding layers of humor and unpredictability. Each dream level offers a unique setting, from opulent mansions to ancient castles, snow-clad mountains, and industrial landscapes, ensuring a diverse and engaging experience.

Step into an industrialized realm where colossal wheels, electric circuits, and mammoth coal engines unveil unprecedented pathways. Immerse yourself in the intricacies of this challenging level meticulously crafted for Human: Fall Flat, where exploration meets amusement in the comical Copper World quest. Rally your friends for an adventure that promises maximum fun!

In each dream level, a unique environment awaits your navigation skills — whether it's opulent mansions, ancient castles, Aztec escapades, snow-clad mountains, haunting nightscapes, or industrial landscapes. Revel in the diversity of pathways within each level, where perfectly crafted puzzles inspire exploration and reward ingenuity. Prepare for a journey through a world where the unexpected and the entertaining converge in every corner.

Welcome to Untitled Goose Game, a slapstick-stealth-sandbox where you, the mischievous goose, roam freely through an unsuspecting village.

The main features of Untitled Goose Game include its unique stealth mechanics and open-ended gameplay, letting players explore and interact with the environment creatively. The game’s charming, minimalist art style and whimsical sound design add to its appeal, creating an immersive and entertaining experience

From charming back gardens to bustling high street shops and the tranquil village green, your objective is simple: set up pranks, snatch hats, honk incessantly, and gleefully disrupt everyone's day. While the levels remain consistent, the joy lies in discovering new ways to play pranks and solve problems, injecting fresh humor into every playthrough. Our walkthrough is still at your disposal for collaborative strategizing.

Notably, Untitled Goose Game doesn't offer split-screen gameplay, keeping players within a proximity of a few yards. Unlike other two-player experiences, the camera maintains an impartial perspective, ensuring neither player is favored. Instead, if a player ventures too far, an invisible wall intervenes, preserving the shared mischief within a delightful goose-filled escapade.

Since its debut in late 2009, Gearbox Software's Borderlands series has maintained a consistent formula. However, this steadfastness proves to be a strength rather than a drawback in the latest entry, offering the same exhilarating chaos and loot-centric gameplay that endeared its predecessors to fans. The visual appeal is commendable, and while some may yearn for more innovation, there's solace in the fact that loot drops remain freely accessible, steering clear of the controversial realm of aggressive microtransactions.

One of the enduring strengths of the Borderlands series has been its adept incorporation of split-screen functionality, and Borderlands 3 continues this tradition. Offering both horizontal and vertical split-screen options, the game elevates the cooperative experience. Moreover, on next-gen consoles, up to four players can engage simultaneously, enhancing the multiplayer dynamics. For those preferring online play, additional participants can seamlessly join the session, although the maximum player count remains at four during any given session.

In a unique twist, Pixel Maniacs' Can't Drive This adopts an unconventional approach to cooperative gaming despite players sharing a single split-screen. Its innovation lies in one player crafting tracks and puzzles for the other, utilizing modular components reminiscent of the connect-the-pipes-style games from the past. The track-building mechanics use modular pieces, allowing for endless creativity and unexpected challenges. One player builds the track while the other drives, creating a unique and dynamic cooperative experience.

The game's main mechanics align with the developer's description of it as a competitive co-op title. Can't Drive This combines teamwork and rivalry, requiring players to collaborate to achieve success while also vying for top performance. This combination of working together and competing, paired with the frenzied quality of four-player split-screen gameplay, makes it an ideal choice for gatherings. The game allows for a maximum of four players to play in split-screen mode locally, enhancing the gameplay experience with added intensity and enjoyment.

Players can also customize their vehicles with various skins and parts, adding a personal touch to the chaotic races. Regardless of the label, Can't Drive This offers a thoroughly enjoyable experience and is worth exploring. With four players in the mix, the gameplay can swiftly become chaotic, but this may well be a significant aspect of its widespread appeal to players.

Enthusiasts of mayhem are likely to find immense delight in Goat Simulator 3. Building on the zany antics of its predecessor, this iteration introduces local co-op multiplayer, accommodating up to four players and providing the flexibility of horizontal or vertical split-screen based on the player count.

If you are joining in on the classic Goat Simulator chaos, doing it with friends (and up to 4 players) is simply too much hilarious fun. While it may not be the greatest split-screen multiplayer game on PS5, there's a strong argument to say that is one of the most fun and accessible ones around (if you're after bite-sized hilarity).
Goat Simulator 3 was developed by Coffee Stain Studios and runs on the Unreal Engine 4. The game was released on November 17, 2022, and is available on multiple platforms, including the PlayStation 5.

Players can expect a range of entertaining features in Goat Simulator 3. Building on the original game's chaos, this iteration introduces new pranks, stunts, and interactions, making the gameplay even more unpredictable and fun. Players can choose between horizontal and vertical split-screen configurations based on the player count. The game features a highly interactive environment with countless objects to interact with, destroy, and manipulate. Additionally, players can customize their goats with a variety of skins and accessories, adding a personal touch to the chaotic adventures.

Sackboy returns in a 3D multiplayer platforming adventure, showcasing his new, edgy "sackitude." This game is a strong contender for the title of the most charming platformer in the new generation, making it one of the best coop games PS5 has to offer. The game was released on November 12, 2020, as a launch title for the PlayStation 5. It runs on the Unreal Engine 4, offering stunning graphics and smooth gameplay.

Emerging as a strong contender for the title of the most charming platformer in the new generation, Sackboy's mission to rescue Craftworld unfolds as a collaborative experience with up to three Knitted Knights on the same PS5 console. Whether embarking on the entire adventure collectively or tackling specially designed teamwork levels within each world, cooperation and communication become key elements in reaching the ultimate goal.

Taking advantage of the DualSense features, the gameplay experience is elevated. Haptic feedback provides a unique tactile sensation as Sackboy traverses the varied terrain of Craftworld, with each woolly step offering a distinct feel. Additionally, every bump encountered, or dished out to a friend, resonates through the controller, enhancing the immersion in this whimsical and lively multiplayer escapade.

Overcooked! All You Can Eat, developed by Ghost Town Games and published by Team17, was released on November 12, 2020, as a launch title for the PlayStation 5. Utilizing the Unity engine, the game offers a smooth and colorful visual experience.

This edition combines the original Overcooked, its sequel, and all accompanying DLC packs, delivering one of the best party gaming experiences on the PS5. Collaborate with your fellow chefs to whip up dishes and satisfy diners. However, with ingredients flying, pots boiling over, and unexpected guests like mischievous rats, the kitchen chaos intensifies.

Take advantage of the DualSense features as haptic feedback guides you to action and alerts you to potential disasters like burning food. The controller's speaker adds to the mayhem with alarms and countdowns, enhancing the cooperative cooking experience with humor and the dynamic capabilities of the PS5. This makes Overcooked! All You Can Eat a star among 4 player local PS5 games.

Embark on a captivating adventure on PlayStation 5, utilizing the power of painting to explore, solve puzzles, assist your animal companions, and bring vibrant color back to the world.

At the heart of this enchanting journey is The Brush, a magical artifact with the ability to infuse the world with color. Chicory, the current Wielder, renowned for her immense talent, suddenly loses all color along with her popularity. As her most devoted fan, the responsibility falls on you to wield The Brush and step into her shoes.

Traverse a monochromatic landscape where every surface becomes your canvas. Paint on everything and everyone in sight as you navigate puzzles by drawing and use your paint to engage with the inhabitants of Picnic Province. Uncover the myriad abilities tied to The Brush and its Wielder as you weave through this narrative-rich adventure, leaving your colorful mark on the world.

Chicory: A Colorful Tale is one of the best games for families to play together on the PS5, promoting creativity, teamwork, and a shared sense of accomplishment as you restore color and joy to a charming world.

Tiny Tina's Wonderlands was developed by Gearbox Software and published by 2K Games. The game was released on March 25, 2022, for PlayStation 5 and other platforms. It runs on Unreal Engine 4, providing a visually rich and dynamic gameplay environment.

Step into a chaotic fantasy world where bullets, magic, and broadswords collide, all orchestrated by the unpredictable Tiny Tina. Craft your multiclass hero and embark on a journey of looting, shooting, slashing, and casting spells, navigating through bizarre monsters and treasure-laden dungeons to thwart the tyrannical Dragon Lord.

Guided by the disorderly Tiny Tina, explore an extraordinary tabletop realm where conventional rules seldom apply. Traverse a sprawling overworld that encompasses majestic cities, eerie mushroom forests, ominous fortresses, and beyond.

Taking advantage of DualSense features, Tiny Tina's Wonderlands offers full support, incorporating haptic feedback and adaptive triggers that intensify every gunshot, strike, and explosion. Each weapon provides a unique adaptive trigger response, enhancing the tactile experience to match its distinct feel. Dive into this immersive adventure where chaos reigns, and every sensory detail is brought to life through the capabilities of the DualSense controller, making it one of the top PS5 split screen games.

For horror fans within a group setting, Supermassive Games stands as a reliable choice. This developer has etched its mark in the cooperative interactive drama domain, with titles like Until Dawn and chapters from The Dark Pictures Anthology, each being a trustworthy selection. Adding another gem to their repertoire, The Quarry of 2022 is a testament to Supermassive Games' prowess, accommodating up to 8 players in local and online co-op experiences.

An homage to 1980s slashers, The Quarry unabashedly wears its inspirations on its sleeve. Set against the backdrop of a group of teenagers venturing to the titular location for a night of plans gone awry, the game unfolds with a classic horror narrative. As is customary in such tales, chaos ensues, and suspicions arise about who may be responsible for the unfolding mayhem. Depending on the number of players, The Quarry introduces a unique dynamic by assigning a single character to each player. This clever twist prompts every participant to make decisions that balance self-preservation against the collective good, adding an extra layer of suspense and strategy to the horror-filled narrative.

Nobody Saves the World draws inspiration from various dungeon crawlers but weaves them into a tapestry that feels refreshingly unique. The gameplay strikes a balance between challenge and fairness, compelling players to consistently diversify their load-outs, preventing any sense of complacency or boredom during a run.

Developed by Drinkbox Studios and running on the Unity engine, Nobody Saves the World showcases the studio's knack for creating visually appealing and mechanically engaging games. Initially, the game did not feature local co-op at launch, but it was patched a few months after its release on PlayStation and Switch. This update allows two friends to embark on the adventure together on a single console, making it one of the best two player games on PS5.

The local co-op experience proves to be as enjoyable, if not more so, than its online counterpart. Players can share their triumphs and frustrations more easily with their partner seated right beside them on the couch. The game features character forms that players can switch between, each with unique abilities and skills, ensuring that the gameplay remains dynamic and engaging. Additionally, the game’s procedurally generated dungeons and diverse quests keep the experience fresh and exciting.

These local co-op games transcend the boundaries of traditional entertainment, offering a dynamic platform for family and friends to come together, share in the excitement, and immerse themselves in engaging narratives. From collaborative adventures to competitive fun, the versatility of these games ensures there's something for every taste and preference. Indeed, they are among the best console local multiplayer games, providing endless fun and connection.

So, as you gather with friends and family, consider embracing the joy of local co-op gaming. It's not just a pastime; it's a shared journey that bridges generations and fosters connections. With the provided list of games, get ready to embark on an escapade that will entertain the whole family, creating cherished moments that will be remembered long after the game sessions end.

If you're ready to create your own co-op game, reach out to Argentics. The studio is eager to bring your idea to life!