Best Local Multiplayer Games On PS4, Ranked

The PS4 is generally used for its online platform, but many people don’t realize it is also great for playing split-screen multiplayer games. These games vary in genre, but they all have one thing in common: you and a friend can play in your home on the same exact couch. Your friends may not own a PS4, or you only have one console in your residence, but these games allow the fun to continue when you and your buddy get together.

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There are plenty of these types of games on the system. However, several of them clearly rise above the others in terms of fun and intrigue. As such, they deserve the spotlight. So, here are the best split-screen titles the PS4 has to offer.

Updated April 29, 2025 by Ben Jessey: The PS4 is home to all sorts of wonderful split-screen games. We put the best on this list, and now we’ve updated it to include a few more.

My Little Universe

My Little Universe is about exploring distinct and run-down worlds filled with danger. You wander around, mine resources, try to survive, and generally get these places back in good shape again. The game is somewhat similar to Minecraft, but with elements of the dungeon crawler genre added.

The art style is adorable, which makes exploring even more of a treat. What’s also a treat is how different each of the worlds is. They all look distinct, and exploring each one feels like a unique experience. This keeps the gameplay compelling throughout.

Wilmot’s Warehouse

Wilmot’s Warehouse

Released

August 29, 2019

ESRB

E For Everyone

Developer(s)

Hollow Ponds, Richard Hogg

Publisher(s)

Finji

Engine

Lime_OR_OpenFL Engine

Multiplayer

Local Co-Op

Number of Players

1

Steam Deck Compatibility

Verified

Wilmot’s Warehouse is a puzzle game that allows you to manage a warehouse. Now, that doesn’t sound very fun, but it’s actually an enjoyable puzzle game. You receive a delivery of goods, and you must move around the warehouse, placing the items in strategic locations. There isn’t a specific place you have to put them, but you may need to know their location later.

This is because you then start to get orders that you must fulfill and will need to run around the warehouse to grab the required items. Since you can’t see the goods until you get close, knowing where they are is really beneficial. Having a friend by your side requires extra cooperation, as you both will need to know where things are.

One Piece: Pirate Warriors 3

One Piece is an anime series with a lot of episodes, but you don’t have to have seen them all to enjoy One Piece: Pirate Warriors 3.

It’s a wacky, over-the-top action game where you battle seemingly countless enemies at once. They surround you, and you need to blast through them with big strikes and a slew of special attacks. The character you play impacts what attacks you have to deal with. Most of them are really impactful and visually stunning, though, just like the series the game is based on.

Plants Vs. Zombies: Battle For Neighborville

Plants Vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville

Released

October 18, 2019

ESRB

E10+ For Everyone 10+ Due To Comic Mischief, Fantasy Violence

Developer(s)

PopCap

Engine

Frostbite

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Franchise

Plants vs. Zombies

Plants Vs. Zombies: Battle For Neighborville is a third-person shooter where you play as either plants or zombies. Whatever side you’re on, you can play various game modes both cooperatively and competitively.

Each of the factions contains plenty of different combatants you can control. Since the game doesn’t take itself too seriously – it’s about plants battling zombies, after all – the characters have wild and unique designs. Not only are they distinct visually, but they are different from a gameplay standpoint. Some are there to take enemies out, while others support their teammates.

Unturned

Unturned

Released

July 7, 2014

ESRB

T For Teen due to Blood, Violence

Developer(s)

Smartly Dressed Games

Publisher(s)

Smartly Dressed Games

Engine

Unity

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer, Local Multiplayer

Unturned is a survival game where you’re placed on a map and forced to gather resources. On top of that, you need to make sure you keep yourself well-fed and avoid dying of thirst. So, it sounds like a traditional survival game.

However, there is a cool twist, as the world you’re in also includes many zombies. So, not only do you have to scavenge supplies, but you also could do with some weapons to keep the undead at bay. Staying alive is easier and more fun with a friend by your side.

Crypt Of The NecroDancer

Crypt of the NecroDancer

Released

April 23, 2015

ESRB

T For Teen Due To Fantasy Violence, Blood

Developer(s)

Brace Yourself Games

Publisher(s)

Brace Yourself Games

Engine

proprietary engine

Crypt of the Necromancer is a unique roguelike game. You explore dungeons, find treasure, and kill all sorts of monsters. That may not sound very original at all. However, it’s also a rhythm game.

So, while doing all those previously mentioned things, you’re also bouncing around to the beat, as are your enemies. This is what makes it a unique and creative game. It’s also a very good roguelike in general, with some interesting enemy designs and a fantastic soundtrack.

Dirt 5

Dirt 5

5.0/5

Released

November 6, 2020

ESRB

E For Everyone

Engine

Evolved Engine

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Typically, racing games are either simulation-like or arcade-like. However, Dirt 5 is a bit of a combination of the two. It has the visuals and presentation of a simulation racing game, but it feels more like an arcade racer when you’re behind the wheel.

Another area where the game stands out compared to other titles in the genre is the fact it focuses on off-road racing. So, you aren’t driving around pristine race tracks in this one. Not only do you drive through the dirt, as the title of the game suggests, but various weather conditions impact the track, adding an interesting variable to each race. You can experience these different weather conditions while racing your buddies.

Quadroids

Quadroids is a puzzle-platforming game featuring a pixel-art style. What makes the game unique is that it always has a split screen, even when playing single-player.

So, you need to control four screens at once as you guide your characters past various deadly hazards like spikes and acid baths. The co-op mode can offer you a bit of restbite, as it allows others to take over screens. While that does lighten the load, the game still remains pretty challenging. It’s an enjoyable challenge, though.

Bang-On Balls: Chronicles

Bang-On Balls is a game all about chunky, colorful balls that have faces and are able to move around. You and your co-op buddies each play as a different ball as you roam around a slew of unique worlds.

Each one has a different theme with different things to collect and platforming sections to do. Think of it as a 3D Mario game but with balls instead of plumbers and turtles. It provides plenty of wacky fun.

Timesplitters 2

TimeSplitters 2

Released

October 8, 2002

ESRB

T For Teen // Blood, Language, Violence

Developer(s)

Free Radical Design

Publisher(s)

Eidos Interactive

Engine

unreal engine

Multiplayer

Local Co-Op, Local Multiplayer

Number of Players

1-16

Timesplitters 2 is a classic first-person shooter game, originally released in the early 2000s. It has more recently been released on the latest consoles, but it’s still the original version, not a fancy remake or remaster.

So, it has an old-school shooter style, which is a good thing, as it makes it different from other shooters on the PS4. Plus, the gunplay still feels smooth, and the fact that you can play co-op and PvP multiplayer in split-screen is a welcome aspect of the game.

Rock Of Ages 2: Bigger And Boulder

Rock of Ages 2: Bigger & Boulder

Released

August 28, 2017

ESRB

e

Developer(s)

ACE Team

Publisher(s)

Atlus USA

Engine

Unreal Engine 4

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Outside of the first game, there aren’t many titles you can compare with Rock of Ages 2. It offers a distinct brand of gameplay that is a mix between a tower defense game and Marble Run. This is because you control a big boulder that rolls down a winding hill with the intention of smashing up your opponent’s castle.

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In the meantime, they’re attempting to do the same to you. So, you must set traps and obstacles to stop them before you start rolling. In the local multiplayer, you can either team up with a buddy through the campaign or face off against them. Either way, the game is simple to understand and fun to play.

Lego Jurassic World

LEGO Jurassic World

Released

June 10, 2015

ESRB

E10+ For Everyone 10+ // Cartoon Violence, Crude Humor

Developer(s)

Traveller’s Tales

Publisher(s)

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment

Engine

Proprietary Engine

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Franchise

LEGO

Lego Jurassic World is a bit of a misleading title, as you don’t just play through levels based on the Jurassic World movie. All the Jurassic Park movies are featured in this game, too. So, you get to play through the events of four different films.

The tone is lighter than in the movies, and it’s certainly more comical. Yet, you do still get to witness the most important moments from the movies as you fight and puzzle-solve your way through the game’s varied set of levels. And you can do it all with a buddy by your side.

Hand In Hand

Hand in Hand is the rare game where there is a split screen even when you’re playing on your own. When alone, you must control two characters at once. With a friend by your side, though, they take the reins of one of them.

Together, you have to guide your characters through various environments. Along the way, you do some platforming, solve puzzles, and bypass obstacles. It’s a fun and unique platformer that’s very easy on the eye due to the game’s beautiful art style.

Fortnite

Fortnite

Released

September 26, 2017

ESRB

T for Teen – Violence

Engine

Unreal Engine 5

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Cross-Platform Play

Mobile, PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S

Cross Save

yes

At this point, most people have heard of Fortnite, as it’s one of the biggest games in the world. Yet, not everyone knows that the title allows for split-screen play. If you have a friend nearby and an extra controller, the two of you can play the duos and squad modes. This means you can attempt to survive the battle royale together.

To do so, you need to scavenge for good equipment and weapons while watching each other’s backs, especially in duos, as you won’t have any other teammates. It’ll just be you and your split-screen buddy against the world.

Tricky Towers

Unlike the typical split-screen game, there is no line between screens in Tricky Towers. Yet, it’s effectively still a split-screen game because every player is separated from one another. This is because you each have a tower you’re trying to build.

It’s a bit like Tetris in that blocks fall from the sky, and you have to position them before they land. Where it differs from Tetris is that your goal isn’t to clear rows of blocks. Instead, you must ensure your wobbly tower gets as big as possible without falling. So, it’s one big physics puzzle.

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 And 2

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 (2020)

Released

September 4, 2020

ESRB

e

Developer(s)

Vicarious Visions

Engine

Unreal Engine 4

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Number of Players

1-2

The first two Tony Hawk Pro Skater games were released in the late ’90s and early 2000s. Now, a remastered version of the two titles has come to modern consoles, including the PlayStation 4. They have some technical issues, but they are mostly still fun to play.

In local multiplayer, you have plenty of options for modes. Most of them revolve around competing against one another. There’s a great variety to them, too, as some have you racking up points while others have you playing a skater version of H.O.R.S.E. Naturally, all of the modes revolve around you showcasing some skating skills.

Minecraft Dungeons

Minecraft Dungeons

5.0/5

Released

May 26, 2020

ESRB

E for Everyone: Fantasy Violence

Developer(s)

Mojang, Double Eleven

Engine

Unreal Engine 4

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Cross-Platform Play

PC, PS4, Switch, Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S

Minecraft Dungeons is very different from regular Minecraft. This title isn’t about punching trees and building things – it’s a dungeon crawler. Therefore, you roam around dungeons, solving puzzles, avoiding traps, and killing things.

It’s much simpler to get a hang of than some more traditional dungeon crawlers. Despite its simplicity, the gameplay remains satisfying and fun. Another positive aspect is the use of Minecraft’s art style and presentation. It makes everything look really stunning.

Goat Simulator

Goat Simulator

Released

April 1, 2014

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood, Crude Humor, Drug Reference, Strong Language, Violence

Developer(s)

Coffee Stain Studios

Publisher(s)

Coffee Stain Studios, Double Eleven

Engine

Unreal Engine 3

Multiplayer

Local Multiplayer

Franchise

Goat Simulator

Simulation games are typically serious affairs. But no game called Goat Simulator could ever be serious. This is a wacky action game where you control a goat and are unleashed upon a city. There’s no real objective; you’re just encouraged to create as much chaos as possible.

Now, you may be thinking, how much trouble can a goat cause? Well, in this game, they can cause a lot of problems. More specifically, you can cause problems as you’re the one controlling them. You do so by interacting with all sorts of different things littered around the world. The number of interactable elements mixed with the game’s ragdoll physics makes the experience very fun, especially with more than one player.

Borderlands 3

Borderlands 3

4.0/5

Released

September 13, 2019

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, Strong Language

Engine

Unreal Engine 4

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer, Online Co-Op, Local Co-Op

Cross-Platform Play

PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S

Borderlands 3’s story is about a group of Vault Hunters (aka, you) attempting to stop a pair of dangerous twins with evil intentions. It’s a decent tale, but it’s mainly there just to give you an excuse to travel around the dangerous world of Pandora, shooting things and having a good time.

This is where the game excels, as its pure, action-packed gameplay is a delight, especially with friends. The shooting feels smooth, and there’s plenty of enemy variety. Plus, as the title boasts RPG elements, there are fun special abilities to use, too.

Lego Batman 3: Beyond Gotham

LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham

Released

November 11, 2014

ESRB

E10+ For Everyone 10+ // Cartoon Violence

Developer(s)

Traveller’s Tales

Engine

TT Games’s “nu2”

Multiplayer

Local Multiplayer

Franchise

LEGO Batman

The game may have Batman in the title, but Lego Batman 3 is more of a general DC game as it contains many characters from the comic universe, including heroes and villains. Most of them feature in the main story, which revolves around Brianiac’s invasion of Earth. The difficult predicament convinces the forces of good and evil to team together.

So, there are some strange team-ups throughout the game, and you get to experience them with a buddy. The gameplay is what you expect to see in a Lego game as you run around vibrant levels, smashing things to bits and beating up enemies. It’s casual and exciting fun.

Quake 2

Quake 2

Released

December 9, 1997

ESRB

M For Mature 17+ // Blood and Gore, Violence, Language

Engine

Quake II engine

Multiplayer

Local Multiplayer, Online Multiplayer

Sequel(s)

Quake 3 Arena

Quake 2 is a classic sci-fi FPS title that has recently been enhanced for newer consoles. It isn’t a full remake, so it still looks and feels a lot like the original, but it runs smoother.

4:18

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If you’re not an expert on Quake, all you need to know is that you use big guns to destroy all sorts of dangerous enemies. And you can do that with up to three friends by your side as you take on the entire campaign in split-screen. There are also some PvP modes to enjoy if you feel like killing your friends instead of working alongside them.

Hot Wheels Unleashed

Hot Wheels Unleashed

Released

September 20, 2021

ESRB

E For Everyone // In-Game Purchases, Users Interact

Developer(s)

Milestone

Publisher(s)

Milestone

Engine

Unreal Engine 4

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Franchise

Hot Wheels

Number of Players

1-2

There are a lot of racing games out there, but Hot Wheels Unleashed manages to differentiate itself from the others because it revolves around Hot Wheels. So, instead of controlling regular cars, you control toy ones. This means the collection of cars in the game is quite varied, as you have some unusual ones that you wouldn’t see in the likes of Gran Turismo. Yet, there are also some cars inspired by real ones in the game, too.

The Hot Wheels inspiration also dictates what sort of tracks you race on. After all, since you’re driving toy cars, you aren’t going to race on Formula One tracks in front of large crowds. Instead, you drive on unique tracks made in places like people’s basements and college campuses.

Destroy All Humans! 2

The PlayStation 4 allows you to play the original version of Destroy All Humans! 2. As the title suggests, it’s a split-screen action adventure game that primarily revolves around destroying humans.

That’s not the main goal, though. Your alien character is actually trying to help their species and get revenge on the KGB. However, the game doesn’t put a significant focus on the story. The experience is more about destroying things and causing chaos, which is much more fun when someone else is along for the ride, too.

Awesomenauts

Awesomenauts

Systems

Released

May 1, 2012

ESRB

t

Publisher(s)

DTP Entertainment

A game must be good if the developer has the confidence to put “awesome” in its name. Awesomenauts is a multiplayer online battle arena, more commonly referred to as MOBA. It’s a 2D MOBA pitting teams of colorful characters against one another. Each character has distinct attributes and plays differently from the rest. So, each team is likely to have a diverse roster.

In the main mode, the objective is to break through an enemy’s defenses and attack their base. This is easier said than done since there are often turrets and other hazards in your way.

Portal Knights

Portal Knights

Released

May 18, 2017

ESRB

E10+ For Everyone 10+ // Fantasy Violence

Developer(s)

Keen Games

Engine

Custom Engine

Multiplayer

Local Co-Op, Online Co-Op

Number of Players

1-4

Steam Deck Compatibility

Playable

To begin Portal Knights, you craft a unique, customizable character and select your class. Then, you’re put into a colorful, open world where you have the freedom to go about your business how you see fit. You can do things such as explore, build, battle enemies, and more.

It’s like an RPG version of Minecraft. Yet, this game has more of a traditional campaign and quests to complete. So, despite being a sandbox environment, you have a goal that you can achieve with a buddy in split-screen.

Super Monkey Ball Banana Mania

Monkey Ball Banana Mania is a local multiplayer party game that pits you against your friends in various different mini-games. Not all of them are played in split-screen. After all, the mini-games vary quite a bit, so they use the camera angle that fits each one the best.

Monkey Racing is one example of a mini-game that uses split-screen. There are many more that don’t, but you can still play them with a friend locally. You can play football, pool, bowling, and more. You do it all as a monkey in a hamster-like ball.

Samurai Warriors 5

Samurai Warriors 5

Released

July 27, 2021

ESRB

T For Teen Due To Mild Language, Mild Suggestive Themes, Violence

Developer(s)

Omega Force

Engine

Samurai Warriors engine

Multiplayer

Local Co-Op, Online Co-Op

Franchise

Samurai Warriors

Number of Players

1-2

There are a few different types of hack-and-slash games. Some of the most interesting incorporate a one-versus-100 approach where you face off against a screen full of foes all at the same time. This is what you experience in Samurai Warriors 5.

However, in this game, you don’t have to face all the enemies alone. The title offers a cooperative Citadel mode where you and a friend take on waves of enemies as you attempt to defend bases. It isn’t a completely original mode, but the core combat makes it fun.

Resident Evil 6

Resident Evil 6

3.5/5

Released

October 2, 2012

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Nudity, Strong Language, Suggestive Themes

Engine

MT FRamework

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer, Local Multiplayer

Resident Evil 6 is divided into four campaigns. Each campaign features different protagonists, and their stories intertwine. Each one can be played in split-screen co-op.

It’s not a game beloved by the Resident Evil fanbase because it’s a lot more action-packed than the horror series is expected to be. However, as an action game, it provides plenty of silly fun. After all, most sequences have you fighting against all sorts of outrageous beasts in fast-based third-person gunfights. There are even some boss battles thrown in, too.

Divinity: Original Sin – Enhanced Edition

Divinity: Original Sin

Released

June 30, 2014

ESRB

M For Mature 17+ // Blood and Gore, Violence

Engine

Divinity Engine 3.0

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Franchise

Divinity

In the first Divinity Original Sin, you play as two customizable heroes known as Source Hunters. They’re tasked with stopping a mysterious energy known as the Source. Yet, this is a deep RPG, so the compelling narrative gets more complicated than it initially seems.

Plus, it isn’t all about the main story anyway, as you can engage with plenty of side content. Whatever you’re doing, though, you can bring a friend along for the ride. Together, you make decisions and participate in turn-based battles.

Team Sonic Racing

Team Sonic Racing

Released

May 21, 2019

ESRB

e

Developer(s)

Sumo Digital

Engine

Proprietary Engine

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Mario isn’t the only gaming mascot that stars in kart racing games. The characters from the Sonic universe also take to the track to compete with one another in several titles. However, not only does Team Sonic Racing allow you to compete against friends, but you can also team up with them.

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This is because, as the title of the game suggests, you can play team races. In them, you all still have your own car, but you share power-ups. And your score at the end of the race is determined by where everyone finishes. All this can be played in up to four-player split-screen.

Can’t Drive This

Can’t Drive This

Released

March 19, 2021

ESRB

e

Engine

unity

Number of Players

1-4

Split Screen Orientation

Vertical or Horizontal

Can’t Drive This is a unique racing party game where one player builds a track and another player drives on it. If those tasks happened in that order, the game would be quite simple. Yet, the building and driving happen at the exact same time. So, the driver has to hope that the builder puts the right pieces of track in the right places.

After all, it’s not like they can pull up to give the track creator some time since the car blows up if it drops below a certain speed. It makes for a very chaotic experience that can be enjoyed by four players.

Outward

Outward

Released

March 26, 2019

ESRB

M For Mature 17+ Due To Blood and Gore, Partial Nudity, Violence

Engine

Outward

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Number of Players

1-2

Split Screen Orientation

Horizontal Only

While the RPGs are generally single-player experiences, there are some good co-op role-playing games, too. For example, Outward allows you to play through the whole thing in two-player split-screen. During the game, you play as an unlucky character who inherits a large debt that they have to pay off. To do so, they have to work with one of the game’s factions, and you get to choose which one.

As you can tell by the story premise, you don’t control a special hero of any kind. You play as a regular person, which means you usually have to outsmart the opposition in combat. Enemies are your only threat, though, as the game has survival mechanics, meaning you have to avoid starvation, dehydration, or getting a disease.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley

Released

February 26, 2016

ESRB

E for Everyone (Fantasy Violence, Mild Blood, Mild Language, Simulated Gambling, Use of Alcohol and Tobacco)

Developer(s)

ConcernedApe

Publisher(s)

ConcernedApe

Engine

Proprietary

Multiplayer

Local Multiplayer, Online Multiplayer

Cross-Platform Play

Stardew Valley does not currently support crossplay between different consoles and PC

Stardew Valley is one of the most famous relaxing games in recent memory. In it, you take over a farm that is in a pretty bad state, and you fix it up. At least, that is what you’re encouraged to do, but the title gives you the freedom to go about your Stardew life how you see fit.

You don’t have to live that life alone, though. There is a co-op option in the game that allows another person to join you as a farmhand. Yet, that doesn’t mean they just have to stick to working on the farm. They can do a lot of the same things as the host.

Don’t Starve Together

Don’t Starve Together

Released

December 15, 2014

ESRB

T For Teen Due To Fantasy Violence, Crude Humor

Developer(s)

Klei Entertainment

Publisher(s)

Klei Entertainment

Engine

Lua

Don’t Starve Together is a different breed of multiplayer split-screen game. The goal of the game is in its name, but it is infused with elements of horror, and the design consists of a stylistic approach. You can play split-screen online with your friend and explore the numerous expansion packs they have made available.

Together, you can craft items and create structures as you battle monsters and a variety of other surprises you won’t be expecting. You and your friend will be blown away by the nature of this game and the fun you will have while playing it.

Totally Reliable Delivery Service

Totally Reliable Delivery Service

2.0/5

Released

April 1, 2021

ESRB

E for Everyone: Crude Humor, Mild Fantasy Violence

Developer(s)

We’re Five Games

Publisher(s)

tinyBuild

Engine

Unity

Multiplayer

Online Co-Op

As the name suggests, Totally Reliable Delivery Service puts you in the shoes of delivery drivers. However, these aren’t the standard people you expect to see when your package arrives in real life. These are wobbly ragdoll creatures.

You have to attempt to control them and the various vehicles located in the open world to get your packages to the correct destination. It’s a very wacky and humorous experience, especially when you have a friend by your side.

Screencheat

Screencheat

Released

October 24, 2014

ESRB

e

Engine

Unity

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

There are some unwritten rules in gaming. One of them is if you’re playing split-screen, you’re forbidden to look at someone else’s screen. This rule has been around forever. However, in Screencheat, you have to look at other people’s screens.

This is because the game resembles a GoldenEye-like PVP game, but with the twist that everyone is invisible. Therefore, the only way you can figure out where they are is by looking at their screens. Each map contains plenty of different colored environments to make it easy to identify where others are hiding. It’s clever and fun.

Darksiders Genesis

Darksiders Genesis

4.0/5

Released

December 5, 2019

ESRB

T For Teen due to Blood and Gore, Language, Violence

Developer(s)

Airship Syndicate

Engine

Unreal Engine 4

Multiplayer

Local Co-Op, Online Co-Op

Darksiders is a long-running series with plenty of instalments. Genesis serves as a prequel to the main games and features the fourth Horseman of the Apocalypse, Strife. He teams up with his brother, War (aka player two), to investigate what Lucifer is planning.

Along the way, the brothers face many enemies. The combat is of a top-down hack-and-slash variety, and each character is a bit different. Strife uses pistols, while War favors the blade. When not fighting, they can do some platforming or general exploring.

Earth Defense Force 5

Earth Defense Force 5

Systems

Released

July 11, 2019

ESRB

T For Teen Due To Blood, Language, Violence

Developer(s)

Sandlot

Publisher(s)

D3Publisher

Engine

Havok

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer, Local Co-Op, Online Co-Op

Anyone who has played an Earth Defense Force game in the past will know what to expect with EDF 5. Every mission in this wild game is about surviving hordes of enemies. And this isn’t like any regular horde.

There is always an incredible number of beasts coming your way. These are not tiny soldiers, either. They’re all giant monsters that tower over you and your buddies. Thankfully, you can have some great weaponry at your disposal to take them out, depending on your character class. Whatever gun you have, though, battles are guaranteed to be wild and wonderful.

Escape Academy

Escape Academy

Released

July 14, 2022

ESRB

T For Teen due to Violence

Developer(s)

Coin Crew Games

Publisher(s)

iam8bit

Engine

Unity

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Cross-Platform Play

PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S

Number of Players

1-2

Escape Academy is about a school where students learn to become masters at completing escape rooms. Their main form of teaching seems to be through practical assignments, as you and a friend spend the entire game solving escape-room-like puzzles.

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There’s not much more to explain about the game, as the premise is very simple. But the puzzles are not, as there are plenty of head-scratching ones. There is a lot of variation between them, which helps keep things interesting.

The Escapists 2

The Escapists 2

Released

August 21, 2017

ESRB

t

Engine

Unity

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Many games include exciting prison break sequences, but Escapists 2 revolves around the concept. Each level tasks you with figuring out creative ways to escape your confinement and then pull it off.

It’s not all done on a whim, though, as careful planning is often required, as you need the right gear and opportunity to leave the prison. The benefit of the second game is that it has co-op, meaning you can make these daring escapes with a buddy or three. If you do, you will have to utilize teamwork to make sure things go smoothly.

Lego Marvel Super Heroes

LEGO Marvel Super Heroes

Released

October 22, 2013

ESRB

E10+ For Everyone 10+ due to Cartoon Violence

Developer(s)

Traveller’s Tales

Engine

Nu2

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer, Online Co-Op

Franchise

LEGO

By this point, the Lego series has mastered the art of cooperative play, and that’s proven in Lego Marvel Super Heroes. The game contains all of the most famous characters in the Marvel Universe. And the heroes all team together in an attempt to stop villains like Loki and Galactus from conquering Earth.

It plays mostly like the standard Lego game, as you go through each level defeating enemies and solving puzzles. However, the superheroes obviously get to use their signature powers, too. So, Spider-Man gets to swing, and Mr. Fantastic can use his stretching abilities. There is also a cool free-roam element to the game that allows you to explore the Lego version of New York.

Call Of Duty: Black Ops 3

Call of Duty: Black Ops III

Released

November 6, 2015

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Drug Reference, Intense Violence, Strong Language

Engine

iw

Multiplayer

Local Co-Op, Local Multiplayer, Online Co-Op, Online Multiplayer

Number of Players

4 (Co-Op)

The Call of Duty series has had an inconsistent relationship with split-screen co-op, as the feature only makes it into some entries.

Black Ops 3 offers one of the best co-op experiences in the series because you can play the entire campaign with a buddy. It features a futuristic story, which might not be the most original tale ever told, but it moves along nicely. On top of the campaign, the game’s exciting zombie mode is also playable with a friend. So, the title offers plenty of co-op-based content.

Human: Fall Flat

In this puzzle platforming game, you play as a supposed human, and the objective of every level is to reach the exit. The game is very hands-off, as it gives you complete freedom to experiment and figure out what to do.

So, the main obstacles are your own brain and the game’s intentionally wacky physics. For each level, you can bring a friend along for the ride in local split-screen co-op. You can have more teammates if you opt for online play.

Resident Evil: Revelations 2

Resident Evil: Revelations 2

Released

February 24, 2015

ESRB

M For Mature 17+ due to Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Strong Language

Engine

MT Framework

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer, Local Multiplayer

A few Resident Evil games contain split-screen co-op play, but Revelations 2 differs from the rest because it’s asymmetric. Claire controls like the typical RE protagonist, as she has a range of guns to kill any monster in her path. Her partner, Moira, doesn’t use guns. She can attack with a crowbar, but her main role is to use a flashlight to find things.

The other team of protagonists functions in a similar way, as Barry is there to shoot people while Natalia finds things. Therefore, working together is important for progressing and surviving in this episodic horror game.

Divinity: Original Sin 2 – Definitive Edition

Divinity: Original Sin 2

5.0/5

Released

September 14, 2017

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Language, Sexual Themes, Violence

Engine

Divinity Engine 3.0

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer, Local Multiplayer

Franchise

Divinity

The RPG genre isn’t known for its split-screen co-op experiences, so Divinity Original Sin 2 immediately stands out as unique. Its greatness doesn’t just come from its originality, though. The title also provides a wonderful story about a large threat that the protagonists must stop.

During the tale, you and your co-op partner make plenty of important decisions that impact the trajectory of the story. As for the combat, it uses a turn-based system that often forces you to be tactical to survive.

Goat Simulator 3

Goat Simulator 3

4.0/5

Released

November 17, 2022

ESRB

t

Developer(s)

Coffee Stain North

Publisher(s)

Coffee Stain Publishing

Engine

unreal engine 5, unreal engine 4

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Franchise

Goat Simulator

Goat Simulator 3 follows the series tradition of allowing you to cause all sorts of havoc on an unsuspecting population. This time, the population lives on the fictional island of San Angora​​​​​​.

It serves as a nice-looking open world that contains plenty of things to do, and the game encourages you to do pretty much anything you want as a team of goats. So, you can headbutt, lick, and jump to your heart’s content. You can do so as friends, or you can compete against one another in various minigames.

Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

Released

April 5, 2022

ESRB

E10+ for Everyone 10+: Cartoon Violence, Comic Mischief

Developer(s)

Traveller’s Tales

Engine

NTT Engine

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Not many video games can manage to condense nine movies’ worth of storytelling into one sprawling adventure, but that is precisely what Traveller’s Tales has accomplished with their latest Lego Star Wars game.

The game not only sports a shiny new look made possible by the use of a bespoke engine, but it also boasts some of the funniest gags seen in a Lego game. Then there is its vast roster of Star Wars characters like Master Yoda or Obi-Wan Kenobi that you can play across the entire adventure. And the fact that you can do so with somebody else through drop-in and drop-out split-screen co-op is just icing on an already delicious cake.

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Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands

Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands

Released

March 25, 2022

ESRB

T For Teen due to Blood, Crude, Humor, Language, Partial Nudity, Suggestive Themes, Violence

Engine

Unreal Engine 4

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer, Local Co-Op

Cross-Platform Play

PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S

The Borderlands games have always placed a heavy emphasis on co-op, so it shouldn’t really come as a surprise that the same is true of the latest spin-off title.

6:06

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In Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, up to four players can play together cooperatively, which is how you’d want to tackle the game, given its Dungeons & Dragons-inspired story and gameplay. The co-op action is limited to just two players on the PS4 version, though, so it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re planning a four-player LAN party.

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Plants Vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2

Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2

Released

February 23, 2016

ESRB

E10+ For Everyone 10+ Due To Animated Blood, Crude Humor, Fantasy Violence

Engine

Frostbite

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Franchise

Plants vs. Zombies

What started out as a riff on the popular first-person shooters of the day quickly grew to become a veritable competitive shooter in its own right with Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2.

The development team at PopCap Games basically took all the feedback from the first Garden Warfare and used it as a basis to craft a sequel that improved on the original in nearly every way. The result is a game that lived up to its title by providing countless hours of lighthearted mayhem while remaining fun to play.

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Resident Evil 5

Resident Evil 5

3.5/5

Released

March 5, 2009

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Strong Language

Engine

havok, MT Framework

Multiplayer

Local Co-Op, Online Co-Op

Say what you will about Chris Redfield and his boulder-punching antics, but Resident Evil 5 is actually a pretty decent game that builds upon much of what fans loved about Resident Evil 4.

The game might have veered away from its survival horror roots, but that doesn’t make it any less intense to play. Arguably, the best aspect of the entire thing is the option to play through it in split-screen mode with someone else. This lends some of its already tense scenarios an even greater sense of urgency as you both try to keep each other alive as you face wave after wave of enemies.

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It Takes Two

It Takes Two

Released

March 26, 2021

ESRB

T for Teen: Animated Blood, Comic Mischief, Fantasy Violence, Language

Developer(s)

Hazelight Studios

Engine

Unreal Engine 4

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer, Local Multiplayer

Number of Players

2

Released in March 2021, It Takes Two is an action-adventure game developed by Hazelight Studios. The game was designed to be a split-screen cooperative multiplayer. In fact, it does not have a single-player mode.

The game traces the adventures of Cody and May, a married couple on the verge of getting a divorce. The two are forced to work together after they are trapped inside the bodies of two dolls owned by their daughter, a development that causes them to reexamine their relationship.

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Sonic Mania

Sonic Mania

Released

August 15, 2017

ESRB

E For Everyone due to Mild Cartoon Violence

Developer(s)

PagodaWest Games, Headcannon

Engine

star engine, retro engine

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Sonic Mania is a fun game with retro graphics that should be perfect for anyone who enjoys 2D platformers. You can play as Knuckles, Sonic, or Tails. In the Competition Mode, you’ll be able to go head-to-head with your friends and compete to see who can come out on top.

It is considered one of the best Sonic games released as of late, and it includes some classic levels — such as Green Hill — remixed and better than ever. There are also tough bosses to defeat and fun minigames to unlock.

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Terraria

Terraria

Released

May 16, 2011

ESRB

T for Teen: Blood and Gore, Cartoon Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes, Use of Alcohol

Developer(s)

Re-Logic

Engine

Proprietary

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Steam Deck Compatibility

Verified

If you enjoy Minecraft and games like it, then you should consider giving Terraria a chance. It is a very popular sandbox game that allows its players to create and build their own imaginative worlds by digging, constructing, and working together to bring their visions to life.

You can explore for resources, hunt down weapons, protect your home from invaders, throw parties, and even change the type of biome you’re building inside. There are tons of different events, bosses, and NPCs to keep the game interesting, and you can easily sink dozens of hours into Terraria.

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Ark: Survival Evolved

ARK: Survival Evolved

Released

August 29, 2017

ESRB

T for Teen: Blood, Crude Humor, Use of Alcohol, Violence

Developer(s)

Studio Wildcard

Publisher(s)

Studio Wildcard

Engine

Unreal Engine 4

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer, Local Multiplayer

Franchise

ARK: Survival Evolved

As the name suggests, Ark: Survival Evolved is an intense survival video game set in a prehistoric era that allows both single-player and multiplayer gameplay. It is an open-world game that allows players to try and survive in a deserted landscape with tons of dinosaurs and other dangerous creatures running around.

There are more than 140 different species present in the game. Once you tame animals, you’ll even be able to ride on them, and you’ll want to collect powerful weapons to keep yourself safe. There are different modes in the game depending on your preferred difficulty.

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Wipeout Omega Collection

Wipeout Omega Collection

Systems

Released

June 6, 2017

ESRB

E10+ For Everyone 10+ Due To Fantasy Violence, Game Experience May Change During Online Play

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Wipeout Omega Collection is a great futuristic racing game where players control anti-gravity ships through a myriad of different modes and tracks. Every ship comes with its own special characteristics and add-ons. You’ll be able to customize and earn different updates as you play the game and collect items.

It contains remasters of the original games of the series and will keep you busy as you learn to navigate the tracks and execute hairpin turns. Plus, it has a really cool soundtrack that is sure to get your blood pumping.

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Star Wars Battlefront 2

Star Wars Battlefront 2

Released

November 17, 2017

ESRB

T for Teen: Violence

Developer(s)

DICE

Engine

Frostbite

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Star Wars Battlefront 2 provides a split-screen option for you and your friend to team up in the arcade mode. You can choose to fight one another or take on enemies as a single unit.

The game allows you to blast stormtroopers as you pick from a variety of characters and defeat the multitude of coming waves. You won’t be able to play online in split-screen mode, but neither of you will mind because both of you will find enjoyment in exploring everything the arcade mode has to offer.

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Gran Turismo Sport

Gran Turismo Sport

Systems

Released

October 17, 2017

ESRB

e

Developer(s)

Polyphony Digital

Publisher(s)

Sony Interactive Entertainment

Engine

Proprietary Engine

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Gran Turismo Sport is mostly an online game, but players love the offline arcade as they can play split-screen with their friends. People love racing games, and this one doesn’t disappoint. You and your friend can customize your cars and race each other as you try to beat the clock.

This game would be even better if they set the view to be vertical rather than horizontal. The split-screen mode also doesn’t offer any AI to race against, but you and your friend will still have a blast as you both zoom across the finish line.

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Minecraft

Minecraft

Released

November 18, 2011

ESRB

E10+ For Everyone 10+ Due To Fantasy Violence

Engine

LWJGL, PROPRIETARY ENGINE

Multiplayer

Online Co-Op, Online Multiplayer

Minecraft is a timeless multiplayer split-screen game that the young and old alike love to play. It has two game modes where you can create whatever you want or choose to survive in a dangerous world.

The split-screen feature makes it easier to collaborate with your friend as you create impressive structures, including everything from sunken ships to imaginary castles. The possibilities are literally endless, and you won’t regret a single second you spend playing this split-screen game with your friends.

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Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled

Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled

4.0/5

Released

June 21, 2019

ESRB

E10+ For Everyone 10+ due to Cartoon Violence, Comic Mischief

Developer(s)

Beenox

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Number of Players

1-4

Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled is a revamped version of the original from 1999, and now it includes competitive online modes. This game is still split-screen, so you can continue to race your friends in a mix of the original and newly created maps.

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You can choose from a variety of characters, including Crash and Nitros Oxide. You and your friend will be transported back in time as you experience modern-day Crash Team Racing.

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Borderlands: The Handsome Collection

Borderlands: The Handsome Collection

Released

March 24, 2015

ESRB

m

Engine

Unreal Engine 3

Multiplayer

Local Co-Op, Online Co-Op

Borderlands: The Handsome Collection is a split-screen multiplayer series of games for any pair of friends who love to defeat hordes of monsters. You can work in tandem as you find and use all sorts of wild weaponry against the various rogues living on the dangerous world of Pandora.

The monsters will continue to grow harder and harder as the game progresses, but as you team up together, your characters will become unstoppable. Killing monsters will become second nature to you as you both battle your way past the bosses and use your special abilities to ensnare them.

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A Way Out

A Way Out

Released

March 23, 2018

ESRB

M for Mature: Nudity, Blood, Intense Violence, Sexual Content, Strong Language

Developer(s)

Hazelight Studios

Engine

Unreal Engine 4

Multiplayer

Local Co-Op, Online Co-Op

A Way Out is a really cool co-op split-screen game that actually requires you to play in split-screen with either local multiplayer or online. You and the other player will take on the characters of Leo and Vincent. Your goal will be to execute a prison break.

What makes the game so unique and interesting is that you play consecutively and must work together. That means one player might have to distract someone while the other finds what they’re looking for. You’ll either sink or swim, but no matter what, it will be together.

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Overcooked

Overcooked

Released

August 2, 2016

ESRB

e

Developer(s)

Ghost Town Games

Engine

Unity

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Number of Players

1-4

Overcooked is a game all ages can enjoy and truly requires a next-level ability to work as a team. You and your partner are talented chefs who must make the orders as they pop up on the screen, but numerous challenges await your feeble characters. These challenges were created to make you fail, and only the best teams survive until the next round.

If you manage to defeat the entire game, there are add-ons for you to enjoy or even a second version to try. You and your friend might find yourselves unable to get up from the couch after so many hours spent crafting the recipes the game has ordered your characters to make.

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Rocket League

Rocket League

Released

July 7, 2015

ESRB

E for Everyone: Mild Lyrics

Engine

Unreal Engine 3

Multiplayer

Local Multiplayer, Local Co-Op, Online Co-Op, Online Multiplayer

Cross-Platform Play

PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S

Number of Players

1-4

Rocket League is the PS4 split-screen game to end all other games. You each have your own race car, and the goal is to score goals on the other team. It combines soccer and racing into a single game, and it’s enjoyable for friend groups of all tastes and skill levels.

There are competitive modes as well as casual ones, so you can rank up or just play for fun. The creative friend will have a blast upgrading their vehicle with decals, hats, and colors to make it the sickest car amidst the battle to score.

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