Gaming is always fun, but let’s be real—everything’s better with friends. Whether you’re teaming up for intense battles, solving mysteries, or just causing absolute chaos together, co-op games offer some of the most memorable gaming moments. The PS5 has a killer lineup of cooperative games, and we’ve rounded up 15 of the absolute best. So, grab a buddy (or three), fire up your console, and dive into these incredible co-op experiences!
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1. CAT QUEST III
Who said RPGs had to be serious? Cat Quest III delivers an adorable, action-packed experience that’s even better when played with a friend. You and your co-op partner step into the paws of courageous feline adventurers, exploring an open world filled with dungeons, treasures, and, of course, bad guys that need a good clawing.
Combat is fast-paced yet accessible, with spells and melee attacks that feel snappy and satisfying. The world is colorful, charming, and brimming with humor, making every moment an absolute joy. And the best part? Drop-in, drop-out co-op means your friend can join the adventure at any time. Whether you’re solving puzzles, taking down giant bosses, or simply enjoying the pun-filled dialogue, Cat Quest III is an easy recommendation for anyone looking for a lighthearted yet engaging co-op RPG.
2. PHASMOPHOBIA
Horror games hit differently when you’ve got a friend screaming in your ear. Phasmophobia brings a unique ghost-hunting experience where you and your team investigate haunted locations, trying to gather evidence of the supernatural. Sounds simple, right? Until the lights flicker, the temperature drops, and an angry ghost decides it’s time for a hunt.
Communication is key, and the game brilliantly integrates voice chat—ghosts can hear you, which adds an entirely new level of paranoia. Whether you’re using EMF readers, spirit boxes, or just hiding in a closet hoping for the best, every session is unpredictable and tense. Playing with friends makes it even better, as you’ll rely on each other to survive (or at least laugh when someone inevitably gets taken).
3. SEA OF STARS
RPG fans who love a good mix of nostalgia and modern gameplay will adore Sea of Stars. Inspired by classic turn-based RPGs, it combines deep storytelling, gorgeous pixel art, and strategic combat into an unforgettable adventure. The co-op feature lets you and a friend take control of the party members, making battles feel even more dynamic.
The game’s world is packed with secrets, puzzles, and beautifully designed dungeons that encourage teamwork. Plus, the combat system is far from the usual “press X to win” approach—you’ll need precise timing for attacks, blocks, and combos. If you and your co-op partner enjoy immersive worlds and classic RPG mechanics with a fresh twist, Sea of Stars is a must-play.
4. VAMPIRE SURVIVORS
Sometimes, you just want to unleash pure chaos—and Vampire Survivors delivers that in spades. This roguelike bullet-hell game throws waves upon waves of enemies at you, and it’s up to you (and your co-op buddy) to survive as long as possible.
The fun comes from the sheer insanity of the power-ups. Before you know it, the screen is filled with fireballs, whips, lightning bolts, and who knows what else. Every run feels unique, thanks to the vast array of weapons and upgrades. With co-op, the action gets even more intense, as you and your teammate try to coordinate while the screen turns into an explosion of pixelated madness. It’s pure, unfiltered fun that you won’t want to put down.
5. RAVENSWATCH
Take a squad-based roguelike, throw in some dark fairy tale characters, and you’ve got Ravenswatch. This game blends hack-and-slash combat with strategic decision-making, forcing you and your co-op partners to work together if you want to survive its procedurally generated challenges.
Each hero has unique abilities, from spellcasting sorcerers to brutal melee warriors. The synergy between characters is crucial—coordinating attacks and knowing when to retreat can mean the difference between victory and a restart. The game’s difficulty ramps up quickly, so expect some serious (but rewarding) challenges. If you and your friends love games that require both skill and strategy, Ravenswatch is right up your alley.
6. CONTRA: OPERATION GALUGA
If you grew up playing classic run-and-gun games, Contra: Operation Galuga will hit you with a wave of nostalgia. This reimagining of the legendary franchise brings back the fast-paced, side-scrolling chaos with modern visuals and smooth co-op mechanics.
The game is brutally tough—just like the originals—but that’s part of the charm. You and your partner will need lightning-fast reflexes, precise aim, and a bit of luck to survive the relentless waves of enemies and massive boss fights. Every explosion, every perfectly timed dodge, and every successful mission feels like an achievement. If you’re craving old-school action with a modern twist, Contra: Operation Galuga is a must-play.
7. GROUNDED
Ever wondered what it’s like to be the size of an ant? Grounded throws you and your friends into a backyard where everything is massive—and extremely dangerous. Giant spiders, aggressive beetles, and towering blades of grass turn this survival game into an exciting (and sometimes terrifying) adventure.
Building bases, crafting weapons, and exploring the oversized world is incredibly rewarding. The co-op gameplay makes survival easier (or at least more fun), as you divide tasks and strategize to keep your tiny team alive. Whether you’re fending off insect attacks or simply trying to find food and water, Grounded offers an addictive mix of exploration, survival, and teamwork.
8. EXPEDITIONS: A MUDRUNNER GAME
If you and your co-op partner enjoy slow, methodical gameplay that rewards patience and precision, Expeditions: A MudRunner Game is a must-try. This isn’t your typical fast-paced racing game—here, it’s all about navigating treacherous terrain, getting stuck in the mud, and figuring out how to get out.
Each expedition is a test of strategy, requiring you to plan routes, use winches, and balance cargo carefully. Co-op play makes it even more engaging, as you and your teammate must work together to tow each other out of deep ruts, repair vehicles, and complete objectives. It’s one of those games where teamwork truly shines, and every small victory—like successfully crossing a raging river—feels incredibly rewarding.
9. CULT OF THE LAMB
Who knew running a cult could be so much fun? In Cult of the Lamb, you play as an adorable lamb resurrected by a mysterious entity, tasked with building a following, managing resources, and taking down rival cult leaders.
Co-op mode lets you and a friend work together to expand your cult, fend off enemies in dungeons, and keep your followers happy (or sacrifice them if they misbehave). The game’s mix of rogue-lite action and base-building is incredibly addictive, and the dark humor adds an extra layer of charm. Whether you’re fighting through eerie dungeons or conducting bizarre rituals, Cult of the Lamb is a one-of-a-kind co-op experience.
10. HELLDIVERS 2
If you loved the chaotic, high-intensity action of the original Helldivers, get ready for Helldivers 2, which cranks everything up a notch. This top-down shooter throws you and your squad into the middle of intergalactic battles, complete with insane amounts of explosions, heavy firepower, and, yes, accidental friendly fire.
Strategy and teamwork are essential, as missions require precise coordination to avoid getting obliterated by enemy forces—or your own teammates’ stray bullets. The game’s mix of humor and brutality makes every mission unpredictable, and the challenge level keeps you coming back for more. If you’re looking for an intense co-op shooter that rewards skill, quick reflexes, and plenty of laughter, Helldivers 2 delivers.
11. SHADOW OF THE NINJA: REBORN
Co-op platformers don’t get much better than Shadow of the Ninja: Reborn. This remake of the NES classic brings back tight side-scrolling action with modernized graphics, smoother controls, and an excellent two-player mode.
You and your co-op partner play as deadly ninjas slicing through enemies, dodging traps, and taking down powerful bosses in beautifully designed retro-style levels. The gameplay is fast and responsive, requiring precise jumps and well-timed attacks to survive. With its classic arcade feel, Shadow of the Ninja: Reborn is perfect for old-school gamers looking for a challenge.
12. SEA OF THIEVES
Ever wanted to live the life of a pirate? Sea of Thieves makes that dream a reality, letting you and your friends sail the high seas, hunt for treasure, and engage in epic naval battles.
What makes this game so special is the sheer unpredictability of every session. You never know if you’ll be taking down skeleton fortresses, getting ambushed by rival crews, or running from a megalodon. Teamwork is essential, whether you’re steering the ship, firing cannons, or trying to escape with stolen loot. Few co-op games create as many “did that just happen?” moments as Sea of Thieves, making it a must-play for adventure seekers.
13. TEKKEN 8
Fighting games might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about co-op, but Tekken 8 introduces new ways to play together. Besides traditional one-on-one battles, the game features co-op tag-team modes and online tournaments where you and a friend can take on the world.
The gameplay is faster and smoother than ever, with breathtaking visuals and an insane roster of fighters. Whether you’re pulling off crazy combos, mastering new mechanics, or just spamming one move to annoy your opponent, Tekken 8 is pure fighting game excellence. If you and your gaming partner love competition, this is a must-have.
14. IRON MEAT
If you miss the brutal difficulty and nonstop action of classic run-and-gun games like Metal Slug, Iron Meat is right up your alley. This game doesn’t hold your hand—you and your co-op partner will need quick reflexes and a lot of patience to survive its relentless enemy waves.
Packed with over-the-top explosions, heavy firepower, and gruesome bosses, Iron Meat feels like an arcade classic reborn for modern audiences. The co-op mode turns every stage into a wild bullet-fest where survival depends on perfect coordination. It’s a test of skill, endurance, and how well you and your friend can avoid screaming at each other.
15. THE OUTLAST TRIALS
Survival horror is terrifying enough when you’re alone, but The Outlast Trials lets you experience psychological horror with friends—and somehow, that makes it even worse. You and your co-op teammates are trapped in a twisted experiment where you must work together to escape while being hunted by horrific enemies.
The tension is constant, the atmosphere is suffocating, and every decision matters. Stealth, strategy, and communication are key, as running blindly will likely get you caught (or worse). It’s one of the most nerve-wracking co-op experiences out there, perfect for players who love the adrenaline rush of survival horror. Just make sure you have someone watching your back!
Final Thoughts
Co-op gaming is all about sharing experiences—whether that’s working together to conquer challenges, laughing at ridiculous moments, or screaming in terror. The PSN has an incredible selection of co-op games, covering everything from action-packed shooters to strategy-driven RPGs and horror experiences that will haunt you long after you turn off the console.
No matter what kind of games you and your friends enjoy, there’s something here for you. So, what are you waiting for? Pick a game, grab a partner, and start making some unforgettable gaming memories!
