2025 is shaping up to be an excellent year for cooperative gaming on Xbox Series X|S. Whether you’re into split-screen adventures, online multiplayer shooters, or deep RPGs with friends, there’s something for every type of co-op gamer. Here’s a look at the standout co-op titles this year:
1. Split Fiction
From the creators of It Takes Two, this cinematic co-op adventure pushes the shared-screen formula further than ever. With a compelling narrative, creative puzzles, and support for both couch and online co-op, it also features a “Friend’s Pass” so only one player needs to own the game.
2. Elden Ring: Nightreign
A spinoff of the beloved Elden Ring, Nightreign introduces roguelike elements and supports three-player co-op. Players work together to defeat enemies and bosses in a world that constantly shrinks, increasing the pressure and stakes with each encounter.
3. Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2
This gritty third-person co-op shooter offers fast-paced action and deep lore. Team up online to fight off hordes of alien enemies in a game that blends cinematic storytelling with tight squad-based combat.
4. Killing Floor 3
A high-octane, first-person survival horror game where up to six players battle waves of monstrous “Zeds.” The game introduces a new mission hub called the Stronghold, where you can choose missions and customize your characters and loadouts.
5. Borderlands 4
This latest entry delivers massive open-world co-op action with new traversal tools like grappling hooks and off-road vehicles. Explore, loot, and blast your way through a seamless world with up to three friends in what is shaping up to be the most expansive Borderlands yet.
6. Towerborne
A fresh beat ‘em up RPG hybrid where players take on the role of Aces—champions tasked with reclaiming a monster-infested world. Towerborne supports up to four players in both local and online co-op, and features mission-based gameplay with stylish side-scrolling combat.
7. FBC: Firebreak
Set in the universe of Control, this is Remedy’s first multiplayer title. You and two teammates venture into the surreal world of the Oldest House to fight back against a growing threat. It blends supernatural powers, experimental weapons, and eerie environments.
8. Subnautica 2
The survival game returns with full multiplayer support for up to four players. Set on a new alien planet, players explore ocean depths, modify DNA to gain unique abilities, and operate all-new underwater vehicles together.
Best Couch Co-op Games
- It Takes Two – A heartfelt, puzzle-platformer that’s all about teamwork.
- Minecraft – Build and survive together in one of gaming’s most flexible co-op sandboxes.
- Halo: The Master Chief Collection – Relive the iconic campaigns or jump into multiplayer action side-by-side.
- Dead Island 2 – Hack and slash your way through zombies in this stylish, gory action game with up to three players.
Available on Xbox Game Pass
Many of these co-op hits are part of the Xbox Game Pass library, offering a great way to play without buying each title individually. Some standout Game Pass co-op games include:
- It Takes Two
- Dead Island 2
- Halo: The Master Chief Collection
- Minecraft
Whether you’re teaming up with friends online or sharing a screen on the couch, the Xbox Series X|S has a stellar lineup of co-op games in 2025. From story-driven adventures to strategic survival and chaotic shooters, there’s no shortage of ways to play together.
Playing games with friends and family creates some of the most memorable gaming experiences. Xbox offers many excellent co-op games that let you team up locally or online to tackle challenges together. These range from casual adventures to intense action games that test your teamwork.
Finding the right co-op game for your Xbox can transform ordinary gaming sessions into extraordinary adventures with friends and loved ones. Whether you’re looking for split-screen options to play in the same room or online multiplayer games to connect across distances, Xbox’s library has something for everyone. From award-winning titles like It Takes Two to classic favorites like the LEGO series, there are plenty of cooperative experiences waiting for you.
1: It Takes Two
It Takes Two is a standout co-op adventure that brings something special to Xbox gaming. You and a friend play as Cody and May, a couple on the brink of divorce who are magically transformed into dolls.
The gameplay constantly evolves as you progress through the story. Each level introduces new mechanics that keep the experience fresh and exciting. You might be swinging from hooks one minute and controlling time the next.
What makes this game truly shine is that it’s built exclusively for two players. There’s no single-player option here – you must work together to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles. The Friend’s Pass feature is especially handy, allowing you to invite someone to play for free.
The storytelling is both touching and humorous. As you navigate through imaginative environments, you’ll find yourselves laughing one moment and deeply invested in the characters’ journey the next.
Each section of the game feels like its own mini-adventure. You’ll fight angry vacuum cleaners, pilot a pair of underpants, and race through toy castles. The variety is impressive and keeps you engaged throughout.
If you enjoy It Takes Two, you might want to try A Way Out, another co-op game from the same developer. Both games emphasize teamwork and storytelling in unique ways.
Remember that It Takes Two requires two players, so grab a friend before diving in. It’s the perfect game for creating memorable gaming moments together.
2: Gears 5
Gears 5 offers one of the most robust co-op experiences available on Xbox today. You can team up with friends to tackle the campaign with up to 3 players working together to take down the Swarm.
Unlike earlier entries in the series that were limited to 2-player co-op, Gears 5 expanded the experience. The game follows Kait Diaz’s journey to uncover the origins of the Locust, with you and your friends blasting through enemies together.
Beyond the campaign, Gears 5 features multiple co-op modes to enjoy. Escape mode allows you and two friends to infiltrate Swarm hives, plant bombs, and then race against time to get out before everything explodes.
Horde mode remains a fan favorite where you and your team fight off increasingly difficult waves of enemies. Many players consider it to be one of the best co-op experiences in the franchise.
What makes Gears 5 special is how it balances classic Gears gameplay with new features. You’ll find yourself chainsawing through enemies one minute and commanding a robot companion the next.
The game is readily available on Xbox Game Pass, making it easy for you and your friends to jump in without purchasing it separately. If you’re looking for an action-packed co-op experience, Gears 5 should be at the top of your list.
3: Halo Infinite
Halo Infinite offers an exceptional co-op experience that stands out in the Xbox lineup. You can team up with friends to tackle the campaign together, making those challenging Legendary runs much more manageable and fun.
The game supports up to eight players in co-op, giving you plenty of options for assembling your Spartan squad. This large-party support makes it one of the most accommodating co-op shooters available on Xbox.
You’ll find the open-world design of Zeta Halo perfect for co-op play. The expansive environment allows your team to approach objectives from multiple angles or split up to tackle different tasks simultaneously.
Halo Infinite ranks highly among Xbox Series X co-op games with great stories. The narrative follows Master Chief’s newest adventure, which you can now experience alongside friends.
It’s worth noting that the campaign only supports online multiplayer co-op, not local split-screen. You’ll need separate systems if you want to play with friends in the same room.
The gameplay shines in co-op mode. You can coordinate vehicle assaults, flank enemy positions, and rescue each other when missions get tough. The grappling hook adds a new dimension to teamwork.
Your co-op sessions benefit from the game’s stunning visuals and smooth performance on Xbox Series X. The detailed environments and fluid combat make for an immersive shared experience.
4: Castle Crashers Remastered
Castle Crashers Remastered is a fantastic co-op game that offers hours of fun for you and your friends on Xbox. This beat ’em up adventure lets you and up to three friends battle through medieval landscapes, fighting hordes of enemies and taking down epic bosses.
The game runs at a smooth 60FPS on newer Xbox consoles, making the action fluid and responsive. You’ll enjoy the vibrant art style and humorous animations that give the game its unique charm.
Castle Crashers is considered one of the best 4-player beat ’em ups since classics like Gauntlet Legends and Turtles in Time. The gameplay is straightforward but engaging, with different character classes to choose from.
Each player can select a unique knight with different elemental powers. You’ll level up your character, unlock new combos, and find various weapons throughout your journey.
While the game is most enjoyable with friends, playing solo can be challenging and sometimes less exciting. The co-op experience is where Castle Crashers truly shines, allowing you to coordinate attacks and help each other through difficult sections.
The remastered version includes improved graphics, all previously released DLC, and a new mini-game called “Back Off Barbarian.” At an affordable price point, you’re getting a complete package that delivers hours of co-op fun.
5: A Way Out
A Way Out is one of the most unique co-op games ever made. This game was designed specifically for two players and cannot be played solo, making it a perfect choice when you want a shared gaming experience.
You and your friend play as Leo and Vincent, two prisoners planning their daring escape from prison. The story follows their journey not just to break out, but also to deal with unfinished business on the outside.
What makes A Way Out special is how it forces you to work together. All gameplay elements are designed with co-op in mind, ensuring both players need each other to progress. Sometimes you’ll work in sync, while other times you’ll handle completely different tasks.
The split-screen approach works brilliantly. Even when you’re physically separated in the game world, you can always see what your partner is doing. This creates interesting moments where one player might be in a cutscene while the other is still free to move around.
From the creators of Brothers – A Tale of Two Sons, this game delivers an emotional story with plenty of twists. The varied gameplay includes driving, shooting, and puzzle segments to keep things fresh.
You only need one copy of the game to play with a friend, as the Friend Pass feature lets your partner download a trial version and join your game for free. This makes it an excellent value for Xbox players looking for a meaningful co-op adventure.
6: Borderlands: The Handsome Collection
Borderlands: The Handsome Collection offers exceptional value for co-op gameplay on Xbox. The collection includes two critically acclaimed Borderlands games with all their bonus content, giving you hundreds of hours of gaming at a great price.
What makes this collection stand out is its impressive four-player split-screen capability. You can enjoy chaotic shooting action with three friends right on your couch – a feature that fully utilizes next-generation console power.
The collection has some of the most co-op friendly quality-of-life features. You can set the game to provide separate loot for each player and enable level scaling, which makes playing with friends of different experience levels much more enjoyable.
If you prefer online play, you can still team up with up to four players online. The frantic looter-shooter gameplay shines when you’re coordinating with teammates to take down bosses and collect rare weapons.
The ability to transfer your previous generation console saves is another great feature. You won’t lose progress if you’re upgrading from an older Xbox system.
The mix of action RPG elements with first-person shooting makes for an exciting co-op experience. You’ll find yourselves strategizing about character builds and complementary skills as you progress through the game’s campaign together.
7: Grounded
Grounded is an exciting first-person, multiplayer survival adventure that you can enjoy with friends. In this game, you’re shrunk down to the size of an ant and must survive in a regular suburban backyard that suddenly becomes a vast wilderness.
You can explore, build, and survive together with up to three other players in co-op mode. The game lets you and your friends work as a team to gather resources, craft items, and build bases to protect yourselves from the dangers lurking in the grass.
One of the biggest challenges you’ll face is dealing with the hordes of giant insects that roam the backyard. From massive spiders to hungry ants, these creatures can be either threats or valuable resources.
The co-op gameplay in Grounded adds an extra layer of fun as you coordinate with friends to overcome obstacles. You might send one player to gather resources while another builds defenses.
Grounded is available on Xbox Game Pass, making it easily accessible if you’re a subscriber. The game features both online and local co-op options, giving you flexibility in how you play with friends.
If you’re looking for a unique survival experience with friends, Grounded offers something different from other co-op games on Xbox. The miniaturized perspective creates a fascinating world where everyday objects become monumental structures.
8: Resident Evil: Revelations 2
Resident Evil: Revelations 2 offers one of the most unique co-op experiences on Xbox. You can enjoy this survival horror game through couch co-op play with a friend, creating a tense atmosphere perfect for shared scares.
The game features an assistive co-op style where players work together using characters with different abilities. What makes this game special is how it forces teamwork through its character design. One player typically handles combat with guns while the other assists with special abilities.
This asymmetric gameplay creates interesting puzzle-solving and combat scenarios. You’ll need to communicate effectively as the second character often doesn’t have access to firearms but instead relies on other survival mechanics.
Each chapter pairs different protagonists together, giving you fresh dynamics throughout the campaign. For example, you might control Claire with a partner playing as Moira, each bringing different skills to overcome the nightmares you’ll face.
The horror elements remain intact despite having a partner, which isn’t always true for co-op games. The campaign provides plenty of tense moments even when you’re not alone.
Beyond the main story, Raid Mode offers additional co-op action with more combat-focused gameplay. This mode lets you and a friend take on waves of enemies together, adding more value to the package.
If you enjoy horror games but prefer not to face the terrors alone, Revelations 2 provides a perfect balance of fright and cooperative gameplay on your Xbox.
9: Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light
Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light offers one of the best co-op experiences on Xbox. This game takes a different approach from the traditional Tomb Raider series with an isometric view that works perfectly for cooperative play.
You and a friend can team up with one player controlling Lara and the other playing as Totec, a Mayan warrior. The gameplay is reminiscent of Diablo but with the puzzle-solving elements Tomb Raider fans love.
What makes this game special is how it forces you to work together. Many puzzles require both characters’ unique abilities – Lara can grapple across gaps while Totec can throw spears into walls for Lara to jump on.
The game’s tombs are designed with fantastic depth. You’ll traverse levels both laterally and vertically as you solve increasingly complex environmental puzzles.
Combat is equally fun with a variety of weapons and upgrades to discover. You can coordinate attacks or cover each other when enemies swarm in, creating genuine moments of teamwork.
Each level contains challenges and collectibles that encourage replay. You might rush through a tomb once, then return to beat time trials or find hidden artifacts.
If you don’t have a local co-op partner, you can play the entire game solo. However, the experience truly shines when playing with someone else, making it great for cooperative play.
10: Diablo IV
Diablo IV offers an excellent co-op experience for Xbox players seeking dark fantasy adventures with friends. You can team up with up to three other players online to battle through the game’s demonic hordes together.
The game features online co-op for up to four players, allowing your entire party to progress through the campaign and endgame content simultaneously. If you prefer local gaming, Diablo IV supports couch co-op for two players on the same screen.
Each player can create their own unique character from the available classes. You can mix and match different skills and abilities to create complementary team compositions. This variety enhances the replay value when gaming with friends.
The difficulty scales with additional players, ensuring challenges remain balanced no matter your party size. This makes it accessible whether you’re playing solo or with a full team.
Players have praised Diablo IV for its co-op implementation. According to Reddit users, it’s great both solo and with friends. Many have enjoyed the shared experience of hunting for loot and tackling difficult bosses together.
The game has earned its place among the best co-op games available on Xbox. You can jump in anytime with Game Pass if you’re a subscriber, making it easy to gather friends for demon-slaying sessions.
Benefits of Cooperative Gaming
Playing co-op games on Xbox offers valuable life skills beyond just entertainment. These games create unique opportunities for personal growth and stronger connections with friends and family through shared gaming experiences.
Enhanced Teamwork Skills
Co-op gaming naturally develops your teamwork abilities as you work toward common goals. Games like A Way Out require players to coordinate their actions to progress through the story.
When playing cooperatively, you learn to:
- Recognize and leverage each player’s strengths
- Compensate for teammates’ weaknesses
- Adapt strategies based on changing situations
- Share resources efficiently
This teamwork translates to real-world scenarios. The skills you develop while coordinating attacks in Halo or solving puzzles in It Takes Two can improve your collaborative abilities at work or school.
Xbox Game Pass offers dozens of co-op titles across various genres that challenge you to think as part of a unit rather than individually.
Improved Communication
Effective communication becomes essential when tackling cooperative challenges. Whether you’re playing split-screen or online, clear instructions and quick updates can mean the difference between success and failure.
Co-op games force you to:
- Give concise, timely information
- Listen actively to teammates
- Provide constructive feedback
- Make decisions under pressure
These games create natural opportunities to practice these skills in a low-stakes environment. Cooperative gaming promotes talking with each other as you coordinate strategies and solve problems together.
Even non-verbal communication improves as you learn to anticipate your teammates’ needs and actions during intense gameplay moments.
Fostering Stronger Relationships
Co-op gaming creates unique bonding experiences that strengthen your connections with others. Whether playing with family members, longtime friends, or new acquaintances, shared gaming adventures build meaningful memories.
Games like A Way Out offer powerful stories that you experience together, creating shared emotional responses and discussion points.
The Xbox platform makes finding co-op experiences easy with:
- Local split-screen options for in-person gaming
- Online multiplayer to connect with distant friends
- Cross-platform play for gaming across different devices
These games create natural conversation starters and shared experiences to discuss later. Many Xbox Game Pass titles feature local co-op and split-screen options perfect for strengthening family bonds or friendships.
Features to Look for in Co-Op Xbox Games
When selecting co-op games for Xbox, certain features can make or break your gaming experience. The right combination of accessible controls, compelling storylines, and lasting appeal will ensure you and your friends keep coming back for more.
Game Mechanics and Controls
Look for games with intuitive controls that accommodate different skill levels. This is especially important when playing with friends or family members who might be less experienced. Twin stick aiming can be challenging for some players, so consider whether everyone in your group can handle this type of control scheme.
The best co-op games offer:
- Adjustable difficulty settings that can be tailored to your group
- Drop-in/drop-out functionality allowing players to join or leave without disrupting gameplay
- Balanced character abilities so everyone feels equally powerful and useful
- Split-screen options for local play versus online-only cooperation
Pay attention to how the game handles cooperative challenges. Good co-op games require genuine teamwork rather than just having multiple players in the same space. Games like Gears of War excel here by creating scenarios where players must work together.
Storyline and Plot Integration
The best co-op experiences thoughtfully integrate multiple players into the narrative. Look for games where the story acknowledges all players rather than focusing solely on a primary character while others feel like add-ons.
Consider these storyline aspects:
- How well the game explains why multiple characters are working together
- Whether all players get to participate in story moments and cutscenes
- If the narrative changes based on cooperative play choices
- The emotional investment potential for all participants
Games with branching storylines or dialogue options can create memorable shared experiences as you and your friends decide the fate of characters together. This creates natural conversation points and memorable moments that strengthen the co-op experience.
Character development should ideally extend to all playable characters, not just a protagonist. This gives each player a sense of progression and investment in the story.
Replay Value and Longevity
A great co-op game should keep you coming back long after you’ve completed the main storyline. Xbox Game Pass offers many co-op titles with excellent replay value, making it a cost-effective way to explore options.
Features that enhance longevity include:
- Procedurally generated content that changes with each playthrough
- Multiple endings based on your collective choices
- Unlockable characters or abilities that provide new ways to play
- Regular content updates from developers
- Achievement hunting that encourages exploration of all game aspects
Consider games with different play modes that can keep the experience fresh. Some titles offer campaign co-op alongside wave-based survival modes or competitive multiplayer options.
The variety of co-op styles available on Xbox is impressive, ranging from couch co-op to online adventures. Make sure to check what type of co-op a game offers to ensure it matches your preferred playing situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Xbox offers a wealth of cooperative gaming experiences across different genres and play styles. Players can find everything from story-driven adventures to action-packed shooters that support various forms of co-op play.
What are the top rated cooperative multiplayer games available on Xbox Game Pass?
Xbox Game Pass features several highly-rated co-op titles that deliver exceptional multiplayer experiences. It Takes Two stands out as one of the most acclaimed co-op games, offering a unique story-driven adventure designed specifically for two players.
Gears 5 gives you intense third-person shooter action with both campaign and Horde mode co-op options. The game allows for drop-in, drop-out gameplay with friends.
Halo Infinite’s cooperative campaign mode lets you and your friends take on the role of Spartans fighting against alien threats. The game combines classic Halo combat with new open-world elements.
Which Xbox Series X games offer the best split screen experiences for local multiplayer?
For local multiplayer enthusiasts, the Xbox Series X offers several titles with excellent split-screen functionality. It Takes Two delivers one of the best split-screen experiences, with gameplay mechanics that require two players to work together.
The LEGO game series provides family-friendly split-screen action across various franchises including Star Wars, Batman, and Harry Potter. These games are perfect for players of all skill levels.
Castle Crashers Remastered offers chaotic four-player local co-op with simple controls and colorful beat-’em-up action. The game’s humor and accessibility make it perfect for quick gaming sessions.
Can you list highly recommended online cooperative games for Xbox players?
Xbox players looking for online co-op experiences have several standout options. Gears of War series offers some of the best online cooperative play, with intense cover-based shooting and challenging enemy encounters.
Halo Infinite provides both campaign co-op and multiplayer modes that showcase the franchise’s signature combat. You can team up with friends to tackle missions or compete in various team-based modes.
Sea of Thieves lets you and your crew embark on pirate adventures across a shared open world. The game encourages teamwork as you sail ships, hunt treasure, and battle other players.
What are some notable Xbox games that support 2-player local co-op gameplay?
For those seeking 2-player local co-op experiences, Xbox offers several compelling options. A Way Out provides a unique split-screen prison break story that can only be played cooperatively with another person.
Cuphead combines beautiful 1930s-inspired animation with challenging run-and-gun gameplay. Two players can take on the role of Cuphead and Mugman to defeat colorful bosses.
Overcooked! series delivers chaotic cooking action where communication and coordination are key. You’ll need to work efficiently with your partner to prepare meals in increasingly bizarre kitchens.
Are there co-op Xbox games particularly suited for gaming with a partner or spouse?
Some Xbox co-op games are especially well-suited for couples or close friends. It Takes Two was specifically designed for partners, featuring a story about a struggling relationship and gameplay that requires collaboration.
Unravel Two features two yarn characters tethered together solving environmental puzzles. The game’s gentle pace and beautiful visuals make it perfect for relaxed co-op sessions.
Stardew Valley allows you to build and manage a farm together, forming relationships with townspeople and exploring the surrounding areas. Its low-pressure gameplay creates a pleasant shared experience.
What options are there for engaging offline co-op games on Xbox One?
Xbox One offers numerous offline co-op experiences worth exploring. LEGO games provide accessible drop-in/drop-out co-op across many popular franchises, making them perfect for casual gaming sessions.
Diablo III: Eternal Collection allows up to four players to battle demons together on a single screen. The game’s loot-focused gameplay creates an addictive co-op experience.
Minecraft lets you and friends build and survive together in blocky worlds. The split-screen mode enables everyone to explore independently while still working toward common goals.
