The best co-op game is the one your whole group can actually play. Before choosing a genre, decide how many people are joining, whether they share a screen and how much coordination sounds enjoyable. These PS5 recommendations cover a two-person adventure, an accessible platforming group and an online combat squad. Their cooperation works differently, so the selection explains the practical limits as well as the appeal. Multiple playable characters alone are never proof of a cooperative mode.
Editorial illustration, not a game screenshot.
Which games should you choose?
- Split Fiction: Choose it for a dedicated two-player journey that continually changes what each partner does. Its science-fiction and fantasy settings support teamwork through complementary tasks rather than simply adding a second weapon. It requires two players. Online Friend’s Pass and cross-play have account and subscription requirements, so set these up before the session.
- It Takes Two: Choose it for a story-driven adventure where the pair’s different abilities turn communication into the central tool. It suits partners who want to work through a complete campaign together. Its central relationship story includes conflict, and platform compatibility differs from Split Fiction; do not assume identical cross-play support.
- Sackboy: A Big Adventure: Choose it for a group that prefers readable platforming challenges and a playful setting. Shared levels create room for helping each other, experimenting and occasionally getting in a teammate’s way. Some optional challenges are demanding; a welcoming presentation does not mean everyone will progress at the same pace.
- Helldivers 2: Choose it for online squads that enjoy coordinating objectives amid unpredictable combat. Friendly fire and supporting equipment make awareness of teammates an essential part of every mission. It requires an internet connection and the relevant online access; it is not a local split-screen alternative.
Compare the main differences
| Game | Best fit | Main consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Split Fiction | Two-player cooperative adventure | Exactly two players and setup requirements |
| It Takes Two | A continuing campaign for a pair | Platform restrictions and relationship themes |
| Sackboy: A Big Adventure | Local or online platforming groups | Different skill levels need patience |
| Helldivers 2 | Online tactical squad action | Online-only play and friendly fire |
Choose by the experience you want. Comparison by play preference, not a numerical score.
Agree on the session before choosing the game
Split Fiction and It Takes Two are the clearest choices for two people committing to the same adventure. Sackboy is more flexible for a household group, while Helldivers 2 suits friends joining from separate consoles or supported platforms. Matchmaking can supply teammates in some games, but it cannot guarantee a group with the same preferred pace.
Check the listing for the exact local and online player counts, required subscriptions and available cross-play. Friend’s Pass can reduce the number of full copies a pair needs, but it does not remove every account or online requirement. For couch co-op, prepare enough controllers and a screen where everyone can read the action. For online campaigns, agree on a host and understand how progress is saved. A little setup protects the shared evening from becoming a troubleshooting session.