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There's a unique kind of fun that comes from gathering on the sofa with friends, family or a partner, controllers in hand, ready to share a gaming adventure. While online multiplayer connects us with people across the globe, the demand for high-quality couch co-op games remains strong. Finding the right title that everyone can enjoy, however, can be a challenge.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the options. As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to filter through the market and present clear, practical advice. Here, we'll explore what to look for in a shared-screen experience and highlight a few standout titles that are perfect for your next game night.
Before diving into specific recommendations, consider a few key factors. Thinking about these points will help you find a game that suits your group and ensures everyone has a great time.
The ideal game depends entirely on who is playing. Are you looking for intimate games for couples that focus on teamwork and story? Or do you need one of the best party games to entertain a lively group of friends with chaotic, competitive fun? For sessions involving younger players, prioritising family video games with an appropriate PEGI age rating is essential. The number of players is also crucial—many games are designed for two, while others support four or more.
"Local multiplayer" is a broad category. It's helpful to know what kind of interaction you want.
Many of these experiences use a split screen games format, giving each player their own view of the action, while others use a single, shared screen where all players must stay in frame.
This may seem obvious, but it's an easy detail to overlook. Always confirm that a game is available for your console (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch). More importantly, check how many controllers you need. A four-player game is no fun if you only have two controllers, so be sure to prepare your hardware in advance.
Here are a few titles that deliver exceptional local multiplayer experiences, each offering something different for various groups and play styles.
Why It Stands Out It Takes Two is a rare example of a game built exclusively for two players. There is no single-player mode. This singular focus allows it to create some of the most inventive and collaborative gameplay mechanics seen in years. The story of a struggling couple transformed into dolls is both humorous and heartfelt, and every level introduces a completely new way to play, ensuring the experience never feels repetitive.
Pros
Who is it for? This is one of the most highly-regarded 2 player games available. It's an excellent choice for couples or close friends who want a deep, story-driven adventure that they can experience together from start to finish.
View It Takes Two (Xbox) on Joybuy
Why It Stands Out Gang Beasts throws precision and complex controls out of the window in favour of pure, unadulterated slapstick chaos. Players control wobbly, gelatinous characters and attempt to throw each other out of absurdly hazardous arenas. The comedy comes from the clumsy, physics-based engine, where every grab, punch and fall is hilariously unpredictable.
Pros
Who is it for? If you're looking for one of the best party games that doesn't take itself seriously, this is it. It's perfect for groups of friends who want to laugh, shout and engage in some lighthearted, clumsy competition. Winning feels good, but losing is often just as funny.
View Gang Beasts (Switch) on Joybuy
Why It Stands Out Sackboy: A Big Adventure is a delightful 3D platformer that radiates charm. Set in a vibrant, handcrafted world, it offers a polished and accessible adventure that can be enjoyed solo or with up to three other players. While the main story is playable together, there are also specific co-op-only levels that require teamwork to solve, adding a special reward for playing with others.
Pros
Who is it for? This is one of the top-tier family video games on the market. It's ideal for parents gaming with children or for groups of players with varying skill levels, as its cooperative nature ensures no one gets left behind.
View Sackboy: A Big Adventure (PS4) on Joybuy
These three games represent some of the fantastic local multiplayer games available, but the fun doesn't stop here. Every group has different tastes, and you might be looking for a racing game, a puzzle collection or a different kind of brawler.
If you're searching for more party game ideas, browse our full collection of social video games to find the perfect fit for your next session.
1. What is the difference between couch co-op and local multiplayer? "Local multiplayer" is the general term for any game played by multiple people on a single console. "Couch co-op" is a specific type of local multiplayer where players work together cooperatively towards a shared objective, as opposed to competing against one another.
2. Do I need multiple copies of a game for split screen games? No. For split screen games and other couch co-op titles, you only need one console and one copy of the game. The most important thing to check is that you have enough controllers for everyone who wants to play.
3. Are there good 2 player games for non-gamers? Absolutely. Many modern co-op games are designed with accessibility in mind. Titles like It Takes Two guide players through its mechanics, while party games such as Gang Beasts are built on simple controls and fun rather than complex skill. The key is to look for games that prioritise cooperation and lighthearted fun.
By Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer