22 Best Co-Op Games on Xbox: The 2025 Complete Guide
Recent update
This list is regularly updated to match what’s trending and in-demand among gamers.
The best co-op games on Xbox turn casual gaming nights into hours of chaotic fun, clutch wins, and unexpected betrayals. Whether you’re teaming up on the couch or online with friends across the globe, Xbox has one of the strongest co-op libraries out there. From split-screen brawlers to deep RPGs, there’s no shortage of titles that are better with backup.
As a lifelong gamer and couch co-op enthusiast, I’ve logged countless hours exploring these titles to bring you the complete guide. Ready to squad up? Let’s find the best co-op games on Xbox for you and your crew to dive into next.
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Top Picks: Best Xbox Co-Op Games
Looking for the ultimate cooperative experience on Xbox? Whether you dream of sailing the high seas with friends, embarking on heartfelt story-driven adventures, surviving in wild, untamed worlds, or building entire realms together, these top picks deliver unforgettable multiplayer gameplay and are often available to play on Xbox Game Pass.
- Sea of Thieves (2018) – Set sail in this shared-world pirate adventure where you and your friends can explore a vast open ocean filled with treasures, mysterious islands, and fearsome enemies.
- It Takes Two (2021) – A perfect blend of heartfelt storytelling and creative gameplay, this game demands true teamwork as you and a partner navigate whimsical levels filled with unique puzzles and challenges.
- Palworld (2024) – Dive into a vibrant, creature-filled open world where survival meets creativity. In Palworld, you and your friends will work together to tame fantastical creatures, build bases, craft tools, and battle threats.
And this is just the start of the best co-op game Xbox lineup. From creative sandbox adventures to action-packed team challenges, there’s something to suit every player. Read on to discover my full list of co-op games for you, and the entire crew.
22 Best Xbox Co-Op Games: Play Together
The best Xbox co-op games transform play into a shared, unforgettable experience. From casual couch co-op games to intensive online multiplayer, there’s nothing like playing co-op games with friends. It’s by far the most fun way to play. If you’re an Xbox gamer then you’re in luck! Xbox and Xbox Game Pass offers some of the best cooperative experiences available.
1. Sea of Thieves [Best Ongoing Co-Op]
| Our score | 10
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| Type of game | First-person, action-adventure, open-world, sandbox, co-op multiplayer |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS5 |
| Year of release | 2018 |
| Creator/s | Rare, Xbox Game Studios |
| Average playtime | ~60 hours |
| Co-op type | Open-ended crew-based co-op (4-player ship crews, online) |
| Unique features | Shared-world pirate adventure, ship-to-ship combat, fully cooperative sailing, dynamic world quests |
Sea of Thieves is the best co-op game on Xbox, bringing the golden age of sailing to life. Whether you’re manning a massive galleon with a full crew or sailing a nimble sloop with just one friend, every session is a blast.
The game shines brightest as a cooperative experience, where you each take on crucial roles aboard the ship. One person might handle navigation, someone else manages the sails, while a third keeps watch for rival crews. The seamless integration of these roles makes Sea of Thieves one of the best adventure games you can play on Xbox.
Recent updates have expanded the game significantly, adding story-driven Tall Tales, underwater exploration, and regular seasonal events that keep the experience fresh. The persistent world means you’ll encounter other crews, leading to either fierce battles or unexpected alliances.
Sea of Thieves tops our list of the best co-op games on Xbox for a reason. It’s chaotic, creative, and built around teamwork. If you want a game where every session feels different and every crewmate matters, this is the one to try.
My Verdict: Sea of Thieves creates one of the most memorable teamwork experiences on Xbox, where every session with your crew could turn into a wild story.
2. It Takes Two [Best Innovative Co-Op]
| Our score | 9.9
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| Type of game | Action-adventure, platformer, puzzle, co-op only |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5 |
| Year of release | 2021 |
| Creator/s | Hazelight Studios, Electronic Arts |
| Average playtime | ~10-12 hours |
| Co-op type | Two-player local or online co-op, mandatory |
| Unique features | Mandatory co-op, genre-bending gameplay, split-screen only, Friend Pass |
It Takes Two innovates the co-op experience by making teamwork essential to both its story and gameplay. In this imaginative adventure, you follow Cody and May, a couple transformed into dolls who must work together to return to their human forms. Every puzzle, challenge, and moment is crafted specifically for two players, making it impossible to play alone.
This amazing split-screen game constantly introduces new mechanics and gameplay styles, ensuring the experience stays fresh. From timing-based platforming challenges to creative puzzle-solving sequences, It Takes Two delivers an unforgettable journey that will strengthen your gaming bond. Bonus points if you play with your partner.
The story tackles mature themes while maintaining a whimsical atmosphere that makes it accessible to players of all ages.
My Verdict: It Takes Two is the perfect co-op design by making two players essential to every moment, turning this game into a wild adventure that’s perfect for you and a partner.
3. Palworld [Best Survival Co-Op]
| Our score | 9.8
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| Type of game | Open-world survival, creature-collection, crafting, shooter |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2024 |
| Creator/s | Pocketpair |
| Average playtime | ~40 hours |
| Co-op type | Cooperative multiplayer up to large groups across platforms |
| Unique features | Creature collection meets survival crafting, open-world exploration, automation with Pals |
Palworld combines open-world monster collecting with survival crafting in a unique cooperative experience. As one of the best indie games of recent years, it offers you the chance to build bases, capture Pokémon-like creatures called Pals, and explore a vast world together. The game’s blend of familiar mechanics with fresh ideas creates an addictive multiplayer experience.
Working together with friends amplifies the fun as you coordinate base building, Pal management, and resource gathering. The ability to share Pals and resources makes cooperative play not just enjoyable but highly beneficial for progress. The game’s survival elements add depth, requiring players to manage hunger, temperature, and other vital stats while exploring the world.
The comprehensive building system allows you and your friends to create elaborate bases together, while the combat system encourages tactical cooperation when facing powerful wild Pals or rival players.
My Verdict: Palworld blends creature-collection and survival in a way that makes teaming up with friends feel both fun and meaningful. If you want long sessions of building and exploring, this is your jam.
4. Deep Rock Galactic [Best 4-Player Shooter Co-Op]
| Our score | 9.7
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| Type of game | First-person shooter (FPS), roguelike |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5 |
| Year of release | 2020 |
| Creator/s | Ghost Ship Games, Coffee Stain Publishing |
| Average playtime | ~20 hours |
| Co-op type | Up to 4-player online co-op |
| Unique features | Co-op dwarf mining, class-based gameplay, fully destructible environments, randomized missions, team-dependent mechanics |
Deep Rock Galactic proves that innovative co-op design can elevate a game from good to exceptional. As space dwarves mining dangerous alien planets, your crew works together to survive increasingly challenging missions. If you’re a fan of first-person shooters, you might also be interested in top Battlefield games, but Deep Rock Galactic offers a unique cooperative twist on the genre.
Each class brings essential abilities to the team, from the Scout’s flare gun illuminating dark caverns to the Engineer’s defensive turrets. The procedurally generated caves ensure every mission feels fresh, while the tight cooperation required for survival creates intense moments of teamwork.
The game’s progression system rewards long-term play with new weapons, cosmetics, and mission types, while the four distinct classes ensure that every player has a vital role in the team’s success.
My Verdict: Deep Rock Galactic makes every mission a team firefight where each role matters. If you enjoy shooter co-op with friends, it’s hard to beat.
5. Portal 2 [Best Puzzle Co-Op]
| Our score | 9.6
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| Type of game | First-person puzzle-platformer |
| Platforms | Xbox 360, PC PS3, MacOS, Linux |
| Year of release | 2011 |
| Creator/s | Valve |
| Average playtime | ~8-10 hours |
| Co-op type | Two-player separate co-op campaign (online or LAN) |
| Unique features | Mind-bending puzzle mechanics, seamless learning curve, surprisingly emotional narrative |
Portal 2’s cooperative campaign remains a gold standard in gaming puzzle experiences. Two players control robots Atlas and P-Body through a series of test chambers that require perfect coordination and creative thinking. The dedicated co-op campaign features unique puzzles that can only be solved by two players working in tandem.
The game’s humor and charm make even the most challenging puzzles enjoyable, while the gradual introduction of new mechanics ensures players are never overwhelmed. The precision required for some solutions creates memorable moments of triumph when players finally sync their timing perfectly. Portal 2 is a true legend of the gaming world and is not to be missed.
My Verdict: Portal 2’s co-op campaign remains a benchmark for clever two-player design. It’s fun, smart, and built from the ground up for collaboration.
6. Split Fiction [Best Mind-Bending Co-Op Adventure]
| Our score | 9.4
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| Type of game | Puzzle-platformer, narrative-driven co-op adventure |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5 |
| Year of release | 2025 |
| Creator/s | Vortex Studios |
| Average playtime | ~15-20 hours |
| Co-op type | Cooperative puzzle-solving, story-driven multiplayer |
| Unique features | Parallel universe mechanics, narrative-driven puzzles, split-screen and online co-op modes, time-bending decisions, dynamic story paths |
Split Fiction takes puzzle-platformers to new heights with mind-bending co-op mechanics. You and a partner manipulate time, space, and perception to solve complex puzzles in a surreal, multi-dimensional world.
The game’s unique split-screen mechanic means each player’s actions impact the other, creating a truly cooperative experience. The story unfolds through both gameplay and dialogue, which adds an emotional depth that enhances the challenge.
The gameplay is intense; it requires perfect coordination between players. For example, one player might control gravity while the other shifts time to reveal hidden paths.
While the mechanics can be tricky to get the hang of, once they click, the experience is addictive and satisfying. The game’s difficulty adjusts well, making it accessible for players of different skill levels, though the learning curve can be a bit steep at first.
The minimalist art style is visually striking with vibrant colors that define different dimensions. The ambient soundtrack enhances the surreal atmosphere, while the dynamic visual effects during puzzles are pure eye candy. Split Fiction stands out with its abstract design and clever gameplay, making it an unforgettable co-op experience.
My Verdict: Split Fiction is a truly unique co-op experience that blends complex puzzles with emotional storytelling. Perfect for those looking for a challenge that requires teamwork and appreciates every victory. If you’re into games that mess with your mind, this one’s a must-play.
7. Diablo IV [Best action RPG Co-Op]
| Our score | 9.3
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| Type of game | Action RPG, hack-and-slash |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC PS4, PS5 |
| Year of release | 2023 |
| Creator/s | Blizzard Entertainment |
| Average playtime | ~25 hours |
| Co-op type | Up to 4 players online co-op |
| Unique features | Open-world exploration, dark gothic aesthetics, deep class customization, seasonal content |
Diablo IV brings the legendary action RPG series into the modern era with stunning visuals and seamless cooperative play. Up to four players can team up to battle through Sanctuary’s darkest dungeons, combining different character classes for devastating effect. The seasonal content from this amazing hack-and-slash game ensures there’s always something new for you and your friends to discover.
The five distinct character classes offer varied playstyles that complement each other perfectly in cooperative play. Whether you’re providing support as a Druid or dealing massive damage as a Sorcerer, every role feels vital to the team’s success. The shared world design means you’ll regularly encounter other players during your adventures, creating opportunities for impromptu cooperation.
My Verdict: Diablo IV is a rich loot-driven playground for you and your friends to explore together. This one is a strong choice if you want depth and action in co-op.
8. Gears 5 [Best Third-Person Shooter Co-Op]
| Our score | 9.2
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| Type of game | Third-person shooter (TPS) |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2019 |
| Creator/s | The Coalition, Xbox Game Studios |
| Average playtime | ~10-15 hours |
| Co-op type | Campaign (up to 3 players) + Horde/Escape modes (online) |
| Unique features | 3-player co-op campaign, expansive environments, Jack the support bot, Escape mode, Horde 2.0 |
Gears 5 elevates the series’ signature cover-based shooting with expansive levels and versatile combat options. The campaign supports three-player cooperative play, with two players taking main character roles while a third controls the robotic companion JACK. This unique approach to co-op adds strategic depth to this intense TPS game.
The game’s Horde mode is a blast in co-op mode, challenging you and up to five players to survive waves of increasingly difficult enemies. Each character class brings unique abilities and ultimates to the team, encouraging strategy and coordination.
My Verdict: Gears 5 brings big-budget shooting and co-op thrills together; perfect when you and your squad are ready for serious action.
9. Overcooked! All You Can Eat [Best Chaotic Co-Op]
| Our score | 9
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| Type of game | Cooking simulation |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch |
| Year of release | 2020 |
| Creator/s | Team17 |
| Average playtime | ~8-15 hours |
| Co-op type | Local or online up to 4 players; combo local+online supported |
| Unique features | Online and local co-op, cross-platform multiplayer, assist mode, accessibility options. |
Overcooked! All You Can Eat combines both Overcooked! games with all DLC in a deliciously remastered package. Work together in increasingly chaotic kitchens, preparing meals while dealing with obstacles like moving platforms, magical portals, and kitchen fires. The game’s genius lies in how it makes communication and coordination both essential and hilarious.
Each level introduces new recipes and challenges, requiring players to develop efficient systems and clear communication. The remastered visuals and new accessibility options make this the definitive version of an already exceptional cooperative experience.
My Verdict: Overcooked! All You Can Eat turns kitchen chaos into game night gold. It’s great for friends or family wanting laughs and teamwork.
10. Halo: The Master Chief Collection [Best Co-Op FPS Collection]
| Our score | 8.9
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| Type of game | First-person shooter (FPS) |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC |
| Year of release | 2014 |
| Creator/s | 343 Industries, Xbox Game Studios |
| Average playtime | ~66 hours |
| Co-op type | Local split-screen + online co-op for multiple players |
| Unique features | All main Halo campaigns, cross-platform multiplayer, custom game browser. |
The Master Chief Collection bundles six classic Halo campaigns with modernized graphics and enhanced cooperative features. Tackle iconic missions together either locally via split-screen or online, with support for up to four players in most campaigns. The ability to mix and match different games’ skulls and modifiers adds incredible replay value.
Beyond the campaigns, the collection offers one of the best multiplayer Xbox games including cooperative firefight modes. The shared progression system ensures that time spent in any game mode contributes to unlocking new customization options.
My Verdict: Halo MCC packs decades of co-op in one package. If you’re into FPS campaigns and want friends by your side, this is a major value.
11. A Way Out [Best Narrative Co-Op]
| Our score | 8.8
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| Type of game | Action-adventure |
| Platforms | Xbox One, PC, PS4 |
| Year of release | 2018 |
| Creator/s | Hazelight Studios, Electronic Arts |
| Average playtime | ~6-8 hours |
| Co-op type | Two-player local or online only |
| Unique features | Two-player story-driven gameplay, unique character perspectives, synchronized actions and puzzles. |
A Way Out is uniquely designed for two players, telling the story of two prisoners planning and executing their escape. The game constantly splits the screen between you and the other players’ perspectives, creating unique cooperative scenarios where timing and communication are crucial.
The variety of gameplay sequences keeps things fresh, from stealth sections to driving sequences and intense action moments. The game can only be played cooperatively, either online or locally, making it a perfect choice for you and a friend.
My Verdict: A Way Out is built for two; it delivers a tight story that plays out best when you and a partner jump in together and follow the ride.
12. Monster Hunter: World [Best Monster-Hunting Co-Op]
| Our score | 8.7
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| Type of game | Open-world action RPG |
| Platforms | Xbox One, PC, PS4 |
| Year of release | 2018 |
| Creator/s | Capcom |
| Average playtime | ~40-60 hours |
| Co-op type | Up to 4 players online co-op, seamless multiplayer |
| Unique features | Open-world hunting gameplay, extensive monster roster, dynamic weather and ecosystems. |
Monster Hunter: World makes the series more accessible than ever while maintaining its deep combat and progression systems. Team up to hunt massive creatures, using 14 different weapon types and countless armor combinations. The seamless multiplayer integration allows you to easily join friends’ hunts or call for help during your own.
The extensive endgame content and regular event quests ensure there’s always a new challenge to tackle. The Iceborne expansion adds even more monsters, weapons, and areas to explore.
My Verdict: Monster Hunter: World excels as a co-op experience where teamwork is key to hunting down massive creatures and uncovering the deep crafting system.
13. Stardew Valley [Best Farming Sim Co-Op]
| Our score | 8.6
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| Type of game | Farming sim, life sim |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, IOS, Android |
| Year of release | 2016 |
| Creator/s | ConcernedApe, Chucklefish |
| Average playtime | ~40 hours |
| Co-op type | 2-4 players local or online co-op |
| Unique features | Farming and life simulation, pixel art style, multiplayer co-op, deep crafting and farming systems. |
Stardew Valley’s multiplayer update transformed the peaceful farming sim into a satisfying cooperative experience. Similar to other games like Stardew Valley, you and your friends share a farm, dividing tasks like farming, mining, fishing, and socializing with townspeople. The ability to marry other players adds an extra layer of relationship-building to the already rich social system.
Each player can pursue their own interests while contributing to the farm’s overall success. Shared achievements and events make cooperative play feel rewarding, while individual cabins give players their own space to customize. Stardew Valley is truly timeless and not to be missed.
My Verdict: Stardew Valley transforms farming into a rewarding co-op adventure where every player has a role in creating a thriving farm community.
14. Minecraft [Best Creative Co-Op]
| Our score | 8.5
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| Type of game | Sandbox survival |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, IOS, Android |
| Year of release | 2011 |
| Creator/s | Mojang Studios |
| Average playtime | Endless, with hundreds of hours easily possible in creative or survival mode |
| Co-op type | Local and online co-op (up to 4 players) |
| Unique features | Open-world sandbox gameplay, endless building and crafting, multiplayer servers, survival and creative modes. |
Minecraft’s endless possibilities make it an exceptional cooperative experience. Whether building massive structures, exploring vast cave systems, or surviving dangerous nights together, Minecraft is even more fun when played with friends, cementing its place as one of the most interesting sandbox games out there.
The game’s creative mode allows you to work together on ambitious building projects without limitations, while survival mode creates opportunities for teamwork as you and your friends gather resources and defend against monsters. Regular updates add new content and features, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.
My Verdict: Minecraft shines as the ultimate creative sandbox, giving you endless fun with friends as you explore, build, and survive together.
15. Remnant II [Best Souls-Like Co-Op]
| Our score | 8.4
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| Type of game | Third-person shooter (TPS), action RPG |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, PC, PS5 |
| Year of release | 2023 |
| Creator/s | Gunfire Games |
| Average playtime | ~15-25 hours |
| Co-op type | Up to 3 players online co-op |
| Unique features | Procedurally generated worlds, challenging third-person shooter combat, cooperative multiplayer. |
Remnant II builds on its predecessor’s foundation with improved graphics, expanded gameplay mechanics, and deeper cooperative features. You and up to three players can journey through procedurally generated worlds, combining gunplay with souls-like combat mechanics. The game’s dynamic scaling ensures challenges remain balanced regardless of party size.
The Archetype system allows players to mix and match different abilities and playstyles, creating unique combinations that complement each other in combat. Each playthrough feels fresh thanks to randomized elements and multiple possible world events.
My Verdict: Remnant II’s dynamic world and cooperative gunplay make it the best pick for fans of challenging souls-like games who want to team up for the fight.
16. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands [Best Fantasy Looter-Shooter Co-Op]
| Our score | 8.4
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| Type of game | First-person shooter (FPS), action RPG |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5 |
| Year of release | 2022 |
| Creator/s | Gearbox Software, 2K Games |
| Average playtime | ~25-35 hours |
| Co-op type | Up to 4 players online co-op |
| Unique features | Chaotic combat with magic and guns, character class customization, extensive skill trees |
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands brings the Borderlands formula into a fantasy setting with spectacular results. Adventure together through a tabletop-inspired world, combining gun combat with spell casting and melee weapons. The game’s humor and creativity are at their best when experienced with mates.
The class system allows for diverse character builds, while the multiclass feature lets players combine different skill trees for unique playstyles. The endgame Chaos Chamber mode offers endless replayability for dedicated crews.
My Verdict: Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands is a chaotic, fun-filled loot-shooter action, perfect for friends looking for a fantasy adventure with plenty of replay value.
17. Borderlands 3 [Best Looter-Shooter Co-Op]
| Our score | 8.3
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| Type of game | First-person shooter (FPS), looter shooter |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5 |
| Year of release | 2019 |
| Creator/s | Gearbox Software, 2K Games |
| Average playtime | ~30-40 hours |
| Co-op type | 4-player online or local co-op |
| Unique features | Diverse character classes with unique skill trees, procedurally generated weapons, chaotic co-op multiplayer. |
Borderlands 3 takes the series’ signature style and humor to new planets with enhanced cooperative features. Up to four players can adventure together, with options for both couch co-op and online play. The game’s instanced loot system ensures everyone gets their own drops, reducing competition between players.
Each Vault Hunter’s unique abilities create opportunities for powerful synergies in combat. The endgame Mayhem modes and regular events provide long-term challenges for dedicated groups.
My Verdict: Borderlands 3 stands out as one of the best co-op looter-shooters with endless loot, chaotic combat, and fun teamwork mechanics.
18. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga [Best Family-Friendly Co-Op]
| Our score | 8.2
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| Type of game | Action-adventure |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch |
| Year of release | 2022 |
| Creator/s | TT Games, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment |
| Average playtime | ~25-35 hours |
| Co-op type | Local and online co-op (up to 2 players) |
| Unique features | All nine Skywalker saga films in one game, open-world planet exploration, humorous LEGO-style storytelling. |
LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga offers the most ambitious LEGO game yet, with drop-in/drop-out cooperative play across all nine main Star Wars films. The refined combat system and expanded exploration make this more engaging than previous LEGO titles while maintaining the series’ signature charm and humor.
The massive roster of characters and various gameplay styles ensure something for everyone. Local co-op support makes this perfect for family gaming sessions.
My Verdict: LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga brings family-friendly co-op gaming to a new level, combining Star Wars adventures with fun puzzle-solving and humor.
19. Cuphead [Best Challenging Co-Op Platformer]
| Our score | 8.1
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| Type of game | Run-and-gun, platformer, side-scrolling |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, macOS |
| Year of release | 2017 |
| Creator/s | Studio MDHR Entertainment |
| Average playtime | ~10-15 hours |
| Co-op type | 2-player local or online co-op |
| Unique features | Hand-drawn 1930s cartoon art style, challenging run-and-gun gameplay, unique animation techniques. |
Cuphead is a visually stunning, hand-drawn masterpiece that delivers a tough-as-nails platforming and boss rush experience. Its cooperative mode lets you and a friend control Cuphead and Mugman as you tackle creatively designed, challenging bosses inspired by 1930s animation.
Precision, timing, and communication are crucial to succeed, making co-op a rewarding test of skill and teamwork. The DLC expansion, The Delicious Last Course, adds even more battles, characters, and content, solidifying Cuphead as a must-play for gamers who crave a tough but fair challenge.
My Verdict: Cuphead’s challenging co-op platforming makes it perfect for friends who want to test their skill and communication through tough boss battles.
20. Streets of Rage 4 [Best Beat ‘Em Up Co-Op]
| Our score | 8
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| Type of game | Beat ’em up, side-scrolling |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch |
| Year of release | 2020 |
| Creator/s | Dotemu |
| Average playtime | ~5-10 hours |
| Co-op type | 4-player local, 2-player online co-op |
| Unique features | Retro-inspired beat ’em up gameplay, hand-drawn visuals and animations |
Streets of Rage 4 modernizes the classic beat ’em up formula with gorgeous hand-drawn graphics and refined combat mechanics. Up to four players locally (two online) can fight through the streets together, combining moves for devastating team attacks. The unique art style and soundtrack create an incredible atmosphere.
The variety of playable characters and multiple difficulty options keep the game fresh through repeated playthroughs. The survival mode offers an extra challenge for skilled players.
My Verdict: Streets of Rage 4 modernizes the beat ‘em up genre with gorgeous visuals and fast-paced co-op combat that’s perfect for nostalgic gamers and newcomers alike.
21. Back 4 Blood [Best Zombie-Slaying Co-Op]
| Our score | 7.9
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| Type of game | First-person shooter (FPS), survival horror |
| Platforms | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5 |
| Year of release | 2021 |
| Creator/s | Turtle Rock Studios, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment |
| Average playtime | ~10-15 hours |
| Co-op type | 4-player online co-op |
| Unique features | 4-player co-op zombie shooter, card-based perk system, dynamic AI “Game Director” that adapts enemy spawns |
This title, among some of the best horror games of our time, modernizes the Left 4 Dead formula with enhanced graphics and deeper gameplay systems. You and your friends fight through zombie-infested levels, with the card system adding strategic depth and replayability. Each character brings unique abilities to the team, encouraging diverse party compositions.
The game director AI ensures no two runs feel the same, while the PvP mode offers a competitive alternative when players want to face human opponents. Regular updates continue to add new content and features.
My Verdict: Back 4 Blood redefines zombie survival co-op with its card system and dynamic AI, ensuring every session feels fresh and intense.
22. Elden Ring Nightreign [Best Souls-Like Co-Op]
| Type of game | Action RPG, souls‑like, roguelike, optional co‑op |
| Platforms | Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC |
| Year of release | 2025 |
| Developer | FromSoftware |
| Publisher | Bandai Namco Entertainment |
| Unique features | Dynamic day‑night cycle, seamless three‑player co‑op, reactive world events, customizable Ashes |
Elden Ring Nightreign drops you into the Shattered Realm of Noctis, a sprawling map split between neon ruins and moonlit wastelands. Combat sticks to the tight, weighty feel fans expect: measured swings, brutal counters, and bosses that punish greedy plays. The new Umbra Gauge lets you blend weapon arts with shadow magic, adding fresh ways to break enemy posture or escape hairy trades.
Co‑op on Xbox feels natural – up to three Tarnished can link up with no awkward summoning hoops. Shared progress saves for everyone, and world events scale on the fly, so fights stay tense instead of turning into a walk. Exploration rewards patience: secret catacombs pop open only at certain moon phases, and roaming warbands react if you torch their patrol camps first.
Gear customization goes deeper too. Ashes now slot into armor as well as weapons, letting you tailor defense and mobility without hunting a full set. If you want a souls‑like that respects your time and still kicks your teeth in, Nightreign delivers.
My Verdict: Elden Ring Nightreign is a streamlined yet intense co-op experience that allows you and your friends to dive into its beautifully dark world without the typical hassle.
Future Co-Op Titles You Shouldn’t Miss
The co-op gaming world is only getting more exciting, with several upcoming titles set to push the boundaries of what we can experience together. From epic action to mind-bending mysteries, these titles are sure to redefine co-op gameplay:
- Gears of War: E-Day (2026) – The Gears franchise is making its return with E-Day, set to bring back the brutal, tactical action we all love. This prequel promises to dive deep into the origins of the Locust War, with heart-pounding co-op campaigns and intense battles for survival.
- The Mound: Omen of Cthulhu (2026) – For fans of horror and dark mythology, The Mound promises a terrifying journey through the Cthulhu Mythos. Team up to uncover secrets, solve cryptic puzzles, and survive the horrors lurking in the shadows of an ancient, cursed world.
- Subnautica 2 (2026) – The underwater survival genre is getting a new chapter with Subnautica 2. Explore even deeper parts of the ocean, discover new biomes, and survive with your friends in a world filled with terrifying creatures and unknown dangers.
These future co-op games are sure to bring fresh thrills and unforgettable moments, and I’m already counting down the days until their release. Get ready for some epic adventures with your friends!
My Overall Verdict
When it comes to co-op gaming, there’s a perfect match for every type of player. Whether you’re looking for a challenging shooter, a fun puzzle game, or a family-friendly experience, these titles have got you covered:
- For action-packed shooters → Deep Rock Galactic. A thrilling 4-player co-op shooter where teamwork is crucial for mining, battling alien creatures, and surviving the harshest environments.
- For intense adventure and puzzles → It Takes Two. A genre-defying co-op adventure that forces two players to work together in a truly unique, split-screen experience.
- For monster hunting enthusiasts → Monster Hunter: World. An expansive world full of giant creatures where you and your friends team up to take down beasts in epic, strategic battles.
- For creative minds → Minecraft. An open-world sandbox that invites you to build, explore, and survive together, making it the perfect choice for those who love limitless creative freedom.
No matter your gaming style, these co-op experiences are sure to keep you and your friends entertained for hours.
FAQs
Co-op gaming focuses on players working together toward shared goals, while multiplayer can include both cooperative and competitive play. Co-op specifically emphasizes collaboration and teamwork rather than competition between players.
Local co-op happens when multiple players share the same console and screen, often called “couch co-op” or “split-screen.” Online co-op connects players over the internet, each using their own console and screen to play together remotely.
Yes, Elden Ring features online co-op on Xbox. Players can summon others for help with bosses and exploration, though the co-op system has some restrictions to maintain game balance and atmosphere.
No, Dragon’s Dogma 2 doesn’t support co-op multiplayer. It’s a single-player RPG built around AI companions called Pawns. If you’re after the best co-op games on Xbox, you’ll have to look elsewhere for true multiplayer action.
