The best cooperative video games to play as a couple or with friends

Playing co-op video games is one of the most fun ways to spend time with someone. Whether it's with your partner, lifelong friends, or even long-distance family members, there are titles specifically designed to foster teamwork, communication, and laughter. In a world where many games focus on competition, co-op continues to gain popularity among those seeking shared experiences.

Below, we review some of the best co-op video games currently available, ideal for those looking for adventure, strategy, or just fun together.

This award-winning title from Hazelight Studios was designed exclusively for two players . In “It Takes Two,” you play a married couple in crisis who, through a strange magic, are transformed into dolls and must solve multiple challenges to return to normal.

It combines platforming, minigames, puzzles, and an emotional narrative that can only be completed in co-op mode , either split-screen or online. Without a doubt, one of the most recommended titles if you're looking for a unique and meaningful experience with a partner or a close friend.

If laughter, absurd stress, and teamwork are your thing, Overcooked! 2 is ideal. In this collaborative cooking game, you must prepare and serve orders in increasingly crazy settings, from pirate ships to floating castles.

Coordination is key , and any mistake can create a domino effect of culinary chaos. Perfect for playing with friends at home or online, especially if they enjoy fast-paced, dynamic challenges.

Few co-op experiences offer as much freedom as Minecraft . Whether you play in survival or creative mode, this iconic sandbox lets you explore, build, and take on enemies with your partner.

You can build a house on top of a mountain, venture through monster-filled mines, or design a theme park. The key is that the game adapts to the pace and style of each team, making it a classic for long shared play sessions.

Another hit from Hazelight Studios, A Way Out is a cinematic adventure where two prisoners attempt to escape from prison. Cooperation is mandatory here, with scenes requiring synchronization, mutual cover, and collaborative decision-making.

The game surprises with its narrative depth , plot twists, and action sequences. Ideal for those looking for a more adult, dramatic, and well-written experience.

For those who enjoy tough challenges and gothic environments, Don't Starve Together is an excellent choice. This survival game demands exploration, resource gathering, and staying alive as long as possible.

The difficulty is high, but working together makes all the difference. Playing with someone else allows you to divide tasks, face more powerful enemies, and better plan your strategy.

In addition to the games mentioned above, there are many others that offer excellent co-op modes , including:

• Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga – Split-screen family fun.
• Phasmaphobia – cooperative terror for brave groups.
• Deep Rock Galactic – exploration and mining in teams with space dwarves.
• Diablo IV – Action RPG with online or local play.
• Portal 2 (co-op mode) – puzzles that require logic, physics, and lots of communication.

When choosing a title to play co-op, keep the following factors in mind:

• Player type : Are you looking for action, strategy, narrative or exploration?
• Number of players : some are for 2, others allow up to 4 or more.
• Platform : Make sure the game is compatible with your console or PC.
• Language and accessibility : Ideally, choose games in your language or with simple controls if your partner is a beginner.

Co-op video games are much more than just entertainment: they allow you to strengthen bonds, solve problems together, and share unique experiences. From narrative adventures to chaotic virtual kitchens, there's a game perfect for every type of couple or group of friends. So take control, choose your partner, and get ready to experience unforgettable stories together.