You already know how it is: you load into a match, your buddy’s having an off day, and frustration ensues. Instead of letting that dampen your gaming experience, why not explore cooperative games where you can team up to take down computerized foes? These titles not only allow for skill expression but also offer opportunities for personal style. Here’s a curated list of the twelve best co-op gaming options available on PC right now, along with a bonus pick that may surprise you.
ROCK AND STONE!
This co-op shooter has garnered a dedicated, meme-loving community for a reason. Players assume the roles of dwarven miners who descend into destructible, procedurally generated caves to extract resources while battling alien creatures. The chaotic fun is endless, making it a perfect choice for hours of entertainment with friends.
PEAK
While this game may not push modern GPUs to their limits, its lo-fi aesthetic should not deter you. PEAK is a climbing survival game that employs proximity chat, leading to moments of terror and laughter as you and your friends navigate cliffs together. It’s a unique experience that’s worth your time.
Managed Democracy
In this squad-based shooter, players engage in cinematic firefights filled with hilarity, including the occasional friendly fire incident. For those concerned about corporate limitations, rest assured that a PlayStation Network (PSN) account is not required to enjoy this game on PC. Despite some balance issues, it remains an exhilarating experience.
No Man’s Sky
The transformation of No Man’s Sky from a rocky launch to a beloved classic is nothing short of remarkable. As it approaches its 10th anniversary in 2026, now is the perfect time to dive in. The recent “Remnant” update introduced a much-anticipated Half-Life 2-style gravity gun, enhancing the exploration of its vast universe with friends. The sheer amount of content available is impressive, making it a standout title.
Beat-’em-Up with a Twist
This game combines the nostalgic beat-’em-up vibes of classics like Golden Axe and Final Fight with modern rogue-like progression. Featuring extensive character customization and support for up to four players, it offers an addictive gameplay loop perfect for group play. Currently in early access, it’s advisable to grab it before the price increases upon full release.
Dungeons & Dragons RPG
This expansive RPG is surprisingly accommodating for multiplayer sessions. Players can create custom characters or choose from pre-made “Origin” characters, each with unique dialogue and story hooks. This flexibility ensures that every co-op campaign feels personalized and responsive to the group’s dynamics. While it requires a time commitment, the payoff is immense.
Monster Hunter World
Despite mixed reviews for the newer Monster Hunter Wilds, World continues to reign supreme among players. The Iceborne expansion adds a wealth of content and challenging hunts. Its status as an older title means it runs smoothly on nearly any PC setup, making it an ideal starting point for newcomers to the franchise.
Elden Ring Nightreign
This stand-alone spinoff of Elden Ring allows players to team up in a partially randomized map, scavenging for strength before facing formidable bosses. The blend of elements from battle royale games makes it surprisingly engaging. Additionally, the original Elden Ring can be enhanced with the Seamless Co-Op mod, allowing for a smooth multiplayer experience throughout the entire game.
Nioh 2 and 3
For those seeking deep, punishing combat, Nioh 2 and Nioh 3 are excellent choices. Unlike Dark Souls, these titles feature a dedicated “Expeditions” multiplayer mode, allowing players to create lobbies and tackle monstrous yokai together. With a focus on technical gameplay and procedural loot, they offer a rewarding experience for those willing to dive into their complexities.
Warframe
While Warframe is not a casual pick-up-and-play game, its MMO-style progression and extensive content make it a compelling choice for cooperative action. With thirteen years of updates, it provides a wealth of gameplay options. The absence of mandatory store accounts further enhances its accessibility, making it a must-try for fans of third-person shooting and melee combat.
Our Bonus Pick: Retro FPS Renaissance
Classic shooters have long been celebrated for their deathmatch mechanics, and running through them in co-op is a cherished tradition in PC gaming. Thanks to Nightdive Studios, modernized versions of Doom + Doom II, Heretic + Hexen, Quake, Quake II, and System Shock 2 are now available. These titles feature updated netcode and offer an exhilarating experience, especially on higher difficulties. They include new content that ramps up the challenge, making them perfect for cooperative play.
What are your thoughts? Did we overlook your favorite co-op game? Share your opinions in the comments—whether you love our selections or think they deserve more recognition.
12 Top PC Co-Op Games You Can Play Right Now With Your Buds
You already know how it is: you load into a match, your buddy’s having an off day, and frustration ensues. Instead of letting that dampen your gaming experience, why not explore cooperative games where you can team up to take down computerized foes? These titles not only allow for skill expression but also offer opportunities for personal style. Here’s a curated list of the twelve best co-op gaming options available on PC right now, along with a bonus pick that may surprise you.
ROCK AND STONE!
This co-op shooter has garnered a dedicated, meme-loving community for a reason. Players assume the roles of dwarven miners who descend into destructible, procedurally generated caves to extract resources while battling alien creatures. The chaotic fun is endless, making it a perfect choice for hours of entertainment with friends.
PEAK
While this game may not push modern GPUs to their limits, its lo-fi aesthetic should not deter you. PEAK is a climbing survival game that employs proximity chat, leading to moments of terror and laughter as you and your friends navigate cliffs together. It’s a unique experience that’s worth your time.
Managed Democracy
In this squad-based shooter, players engage in cinematic firefights filled with hilarity, including the occasional friendly fire incident. For those concerned about corporate limitations, rest assured that a PlayStation Network (PSN) account is not required to enjoy this game on PC. Despite some balance issues, it remains an exhilarating experience.
No Man’s Sky
The transformation of No Man’s Sky from a rocky launch to a beloved classic is nothing short of remarkable. As it approaches its 10th anniversary in 2026, now is the perfect time to dive in. The recent “Remnant” update introduced a much-anticipated Half-Life 2-style gravity gun, enhancing the exploration of its vast universe with friends. The sheer amount of content available is impressive, making it a standout title.
Beat-’em-Up with a Twist
This game combines the nostalgic beat-’em-up vibes of classics like Golden Axe and Final Fight with modern rogue-like progression. Featuring extensive character customization and support for up to four players, it offers an addictive gameplay loop perfect for group play. Currently in early access, it’s advisable to grab it before the price increases upon full release.
Dungeons & Dragons RPG
This expansive RPG is surprisingly accommodating for multiplayer sessions. Players can create custom characters or choose from pre-made “Origin” characters, each with unique dialogue and story hooks. This flexibility ensures that every co-op campaign feels personalized and responsive to the group’s dynamics. While it requires a time commitment, the payoff is immense.
Monster Hunter World
Despite mixed reviews for the newer Monster Hunter Wilds, World continues to reign supreme among players. The Iceborne expansion adds a wealth of content and challenging hunts. Its status as an older title means it runs smoothly on nearly any PC setup, making it an ideal starting point for newcomers to the franchise.
Elden Ring Nightreign
This stand-alone spinoff of Elden Ring allows players to team up in a partially randomized map, scavenging for strength before facing formidable bosses. The blend of elements from battle royale games makes it surprisingly engaging. Additionally, the original Elden Ring can be enhanced with the Seamless Co-Op mod, allowing for a smooth multiplayer experience throughout the entire game.
Nioh 2 and 3
For those seeking deep, punishing combat, Nioh 2 and Nioh 3 are excellent choices. Unlike Dark Souls, these titles feature a dedicated “Expeditions” multiplayer mode, allowing players to create lobbies and tackle monstrous yokai together. With a focus on technical gameplay and procedural loot, they offer a rewarding experience for those willing to dive into their complexities.
Warframe
While Warframe is not a casual pick-up-and-play game, its MMO-style progression and extensive content make it a compelling choice for cooperative action. With thirteen years of updates, it provides a wealth of gameplay options. The absence of mandatory store accounts further enhances its accessibility, making it a must-try for fans of third-person shooting and melee combat.
Our Bonus Pick: Retro FPS Renaissance
Classic shooters have long been celebrated for their deathmatch mechanics, and running through them in co-op is a cherished tradition in PC gaming. Thanks to Nightdive Studios, modernized versions of Doom + Doom II, Heretic + Hexen, Quake, Quake II, and System Shock 2 are now available. These titles feature updated netcode and offer an exhilarating experience, especially on higher difficulties. They include new content that ramps up the challenge, making them perfect for cooperative play.
What are your thoughts? Did we overlook your favorite co-op game? Share your opinions in the comments—whether you love our selections or think they deserve more recognition.