20 Best Co-Op Games on Xbox for Endless Fun
Since the early days of Halo’s legendary split-screen battles, Xbox has cemented itself as a leader in cooperative gaming. Fast forward to today, and the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One continue that legacy with countless epic co-ops to choose from, ranging from high-octane shooter campaigns to endless crafting and world-building adventures.
As a lifelong gamer and couch co-op enthusiast, I’ve logged countless hours exploring these titles to bring you the complete guide. Ready to squad up? Let’s find the perfect co-op game for you and your crew to dive into next.
Top Picks: Best Xbox Co-Op Games
Looking for the ultimate cooperative experience on Xbox? Whether you dream of sailing the high seas with friends, embarking on heartfelt story-driven adventures, surviving in wild, untamed worlds, or building entire realms together, these top picks deliver unforgettable multiplayer gameplay and are often available to play on Xbox game pass.
1. Sea of Thieves (2018) – set sail in this shared-world pirate adventure where you and your friends can explore a vast open ocean filled with treasures, mysterious islands, and fearsome enemies.
2. It Takes Two (2021) – a perfect blend of heartfelt storytelling and creative gameplay, this game demands true teamwork as you and a partner navigate whimsical levels filled with unique puzzles and challenges.
3. Palworld (2024) – dive into a vibrant, creature-filled open world where survival meets creativity. In Palworld, you and your friends will work together to tame fantastical creatures, build bases, craft tools, and battle threats.
4. Deep Rock Galactic (2020) – playing as space dwarves, you’ll mine valuable resources, fight off alien hordes, and complete challenging objectives.
5. Portal 2 (2011) – step into the shoes of two quirky robots and work together to solve intricate, mind-bending puzzles.
And this is just the start of the best co-op game Xbox lineup. From creative sandbox adventures to action-packed team challenges, there’s something to suit every player. Read on to discover my full list of co-op games for you, and the entire crew.
20 Best Xbox Co-Op Games: Play Together
Co-op games transform play into a shared, unforgettable experience. From casual couch co-op games to intensive online multiplayer, there’s nothing like playing co-op games with friends. It’s by far the most fun way to play. If you’re an Xbox gamer then you’re in luck! Xbox and Xbox game pass offers some of the best cooperative experiences available.
1. Sea of Thieves (Best Ongoing Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 9.9/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS5 | 2018 | Rare |
Sea of Thieves delivers the best adventure games experience for you and your friends, bringing the golden age of sailing to life. Whether you’re manning a massive galleon with a full crew or sailing a nimble sloop with just one friend, every session is a blast.
The game shines brightest as a cooperative experience, where you each take on crucial roles aboard the ship. One person might handle navigation while another manages the sails, and yet another keeps watch for rival crews. The seamless integration of these roles makes Sea of Thieves one of the best adventure games you can play on Xbox.
Recent updates have expanded the game significantly, adding story-driven Tall Tales, underwater exploration, and regular seasonal events that keep the experience fresh. The persistent world means you’ll encounter other crews, leading to either fierce battles or unexpected alliances.
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2. It Takes Two (Best Innovative Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 9.8/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5 | 2021 | Hazelight Studios |
It Takes Two innovates the co-op experience by making teamwork essential to both its story and gameplay. In this imaginative adventure, you follow Cody and May, a couple transformed into dolls who must work together to return to their human forms. Every puzzle, challenge, and moment is crafted specifically for two players, making it impossible to play alone.
The game constantly introduces new mechanics and gameplay styles, ensuring the experience stays fresh. From timing-based platforming challenges to creative puzzle-solving sequences, It Takes Two delivers an unforgettable journey that will strengthen your gaming bond. Bonus points if you play with your partner.
The story tackles mature themes while maintaining a whimsical atmosphere that makes it accessible to players of all ages.
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3. Palworld (Best Survival Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 9.4/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC | 2024 | Pocketpair |
Palworld combines open-world monster collecting with survival crafting in a unique cooperative experience. As one of the best indie games of recent years, it offers you the chance to build bases, capture Pokémon-like creatures called Pals, and explore a vast world together. The game’s blend of familiar mechanics with fresh ideas creates an addictive multiplayer experience.
Working together with friends amplifies the fun as you coordinate base building, Pal management, and resource gathering. The ability to share Pals and resources makes cooperative play not just enjoyable but highly beneficial for progress. The game’s survival elements add depth, requiring players to manage hunger, temperature, and other vital stats while exploring the world.
The comprehensive building system allows you and your friends to create elaborate bases together, while the combat system encourages tactical cooperation when facing powerful wild Pals or rival players.
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4. Deep Rock Galactic (Best 4-Player Shooter Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 9.2/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC PS4, PS5 | 2020 | Ghost Ship Games |
Deep Rock Galactic proves that innovative co-op design can elevate a game from good to exceptional. As space dwarves mining dangerous alien planets, your crew work together to survive increasingly challenging missions. If you’re a fan of first-person shooters, you might also be interested in Battlefield games, but Deep Rock Galactic offers a unique cooperative twist on the genre.
Each class brings essential abilities to the team, from the Scout’s flare gun illuminating dark caverns to the Engineer’s defensive turrets. The procedurally generated caves ensure every mission feels fresh, while the tight cooperation required for survival creates intense moments of teamwork.
The game’s progression system rewards long-term play with new weapons, cosmetics, and mission types, while the four distinct classes ensure that every player has a vital role in the team’s success.
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5. Portal 2 (Best Puzzle Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 9.2/10 | Xbox 360, PC PS3, MacOS, Linux | 2011 | Valve |
Portal 2’s cooperative campaign remains a gold standard in gaming puzzle experiences. Two players control robots Atlas and P-Body through a series of test chambers that require perfect coordination and creative thinking. The dedicated co-op campaign features unique puzzles that can only be solved by two players working in tandem.
The game’s humor and charm make even the most challenging puzzles enjoyable, while the gradual introduction of new mechanics ensures players are never overwhelmed. The precision required for some solutions creates memorable moments of triumph when players finally sync their timing perfectly. Portal 2 is a true legend of the gaming world and is not to be missed.
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6. Diablo IV (Best action RPG Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 9.2/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC PS4, PS5 | 2023 | Blizzard Entertainment |
Diablo IV brings the legendary action RPG series into the modern era with stunning visuals and seamless cooperative play. Up to four players can team up to battle through Sanctuary’s darkest dungeons, combining different character classes for devastating effect. The game’s seasonal content ensures there’s always something new for you and your friends to discover.
The five distinct character classes offer varied playstyles that complement each other perfectly in cooperative play. Whether you’re providing support as a Druid or dealing massive damage as a Sorcerer, every role feels vital to the team’s success. The shared world design means you’ll regularly encounter other players during your adventures, creating opportunities for impromptu cooperation.
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7. Gears 5 (Best Third-Person Shooter Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 9/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC | 2019 | The Coalition |
Gears 5 elevates the series’ signature cover-based shooting with expansive levels and versatile combat options. The campaign supports three-player cooperative play, with two players taking main character roles while a third controls the robotic companion JACK. This unique approach to co-op adds strategic depth to the intense action.
The game’s Horde mode is a blast in co-op mode, challenging you and up to five players to survive waves of increasingly difficult enemies. Each character class brings unique abilities and ultimates to the team, encouraging strategy and coordination.
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8. Overcooked! All You Can Eat (Best Chaotic Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 9/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch | 2020 | Team17 |
Overcooked! All You Can Eat combines both Overcooked! games with all DLC in a deliciously remastered package. Work together in increasingly chaotic kitchens, preparing meals while dealing with obstacles like moving platforms, magical portals, and kitchen fires. The game’s genius lies in how it makes communication and coordination both essential and hilarious.
Each level introduces new recipes and challenges, requiring players to develop efficient systems and clear communication. The remastered visuals and new accessibility options make this the definitive version of an already exceptional cooperative experience.
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9. Halo: The Master Chief Collection (Best Co-Op FPS Collection)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 9/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC | 2014 | 343 Industries |
The Master Chief Collection bundles six classic Halo campaigns with modernized graphics and enhanced cooperative features. Tackle iconic missions together either locally via split-screen or online, with support for up to four players in most campaigns. The ability to mix and match different games’ skulls and modifiers adds incredible replay value.
Beyond the campaigns, the collection offers one of the best multiplayer Xbox games including cooperative firefight modes. The shared progression system ensures that time spent in any game mode contributes to unlocking new customization options.
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10. A Way Out (Best Narrative Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 8.8/10 | Xbox One, PC, PS4 | 2018 | Hazelight Studios |
A Way Out is uniquely designed for two players, telling the story of two prisoners planning and executing their escape. The game constantly splits the screen between you and the other players’ perspectives, creating unique cooperative scenarios where timing and communication are crucial.
The variety of gameplay sequences keeps things fresh, from stealth sections to driving sequences and intense action moments. The game can only be played cooperatively, either online or locally, making it a perfect choice for you and a friend.
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11. Monster Hunter: World (Best Monster-Hunting Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 8.7/10 | Xbox One, PC, PS4 | 2018 | Capcom |
Monster Hunter: World makes the series more accessible than ever while maintaining its deep combat and progression systems. Team up to hunt massive creatures, using 14 different weapon types and countless armor combinations. The seamless multiplayer integration allows you to easily join friends’ hunts or call for help during your own.
The extensive endgame content and regular event quests ensure there’s always a new challenge to tackle. The Iceborne expansion adds even more monsters, weapons, and areas to explore.
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12. Stardew Valley (Best Farming Sim Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 8.7/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, IOS, Android | 2016 | ConcernedApe |
Stardew Valley’s multiplayer update transformed the peaceful farming sim into a satisfying cooperative experience. Similar to other games like Stardew Valley, you and your friends share a farm, dividing tasks like farming, mining, fishing, and socializing with townspeople. The ability to marry other players adds an extra layer of relationship-building to the already rich social system.
Each player can pursue their own interests while contributing to the farm’s overall success. Shared achievements and events make cooperative play feel rewarding, while individual cabins give players their own space to customize. Stardew Valley is truly timeless and not to be missed.
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13. Minecraft (Best Creative Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 8.5/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, IOS, Android | 2011 | Mojang Studios |
Minecraft’s endless possibilities make it an exceptional cooperative experience. Whether building massive structures, exploring vast cave systems, or surviving dangerous nights together, Minecraft is even more fun when played with friends.
The game’s creative mode allows you to work together on ambitious building projects without limitations, while survival mode creates opportunities for teamwork as you and your friends gather resources and defend against monsters. Regular updates add new content and features, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.
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14. Remnant II (Best Souls-Like Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 8.5/10 | Xbox X|S, PC, PS5 | 2023 | Gunfire Games |
Remnant II builds on its predecessor’s foundation with improved graphics, expanded gameplay mechanics, and deeper cooperative features. You and up to three players can journey through procedurally generated worlds, combining gunplay with souls-like combat mechanics. The game’s dynamic scaling ensures challenges remain balanced regardless of party size.
The Archetype system allows players to mix and match different abilities and playstyles, creating unique combinations that complement each other in combat. Each playthrough feels fresh thanks to randomized elements and multiple possible world events.
15. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands (Best Fantasy Looter-Shooter Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 8.5/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5 | 2022 | Gearbox Software |
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands brings the Borderlands formula into a fantasy setting with spectacular results. Adventure together through a tabletop-inspired world, combining gun combat with spell casting and melee weapons. The game’s humor and creativity are at their best when experienced with mates.
The class system allows for diverse character builds, while the multiclass feature lets players combine different skill trees for unique playstyles. The endgame Chaos Chamber mode offers endless replayability for dedicated crews.
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16. Borderlands 3 (Best Looter-Shooter Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 8.5/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5 | 2019 | Gearbox Software |
Borderlands 3 takes the series’ signature style and humor to new planets with enhanced cooperative features. Up to four players can adventure together, with options for both couch co-op and online play. The game’s instanced loot system ensures everyone gets their own drops, reducing competition between players.
Each Vault Hunter’s unique abilities create opportunities for powerful synergies in combat. The endgame Mayhem modes and regular events provide long-term challenges for dedicated groups.
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17. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga (Best Family-Friendly Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 8.5/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch | 2022 | TT Games |
This title offers the most ambitious LEGO game yet, with drop-in/drop-out cooperative play across all nine main Star Wars films. The refined combat system and expanded exploration make this more engaging than previous LEGO titles while maintaining the series’ signature charm and humor.
The massive roster of characters and various gameplay styles ensure something for everyone. Local co-op support makes this perfect for family gaming sessions.
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18. Cuphead (Best Challenging Co-Op Platformer)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 8.4/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, macOS | 2017 | Studio MDHR |
Cuphead is a visually stunning, hand-drawn masterpiece that delivers a tough-as-nails platforming and boss rush experience. Its cooperative mode lets you and a friend control Cuphead and Mugman as you tackle creatively designed, challenging bosses inspired by 1930s animation.
Precision, timing, and communication are crucial to succeed, making co-op a rewarding test of skill and teamwork. The DLC expansion, The Delicious Last Course, adds even more battles, characters, and content, solidifying Cuphead as a must-play for gamers who crave a tough but fair challenge.
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19. Streets of Rage 4 (Best Beat ‘Em Up Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 8.3/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch | 2020 | Dotemu |
Streets of Rage 4 modernizes the classic beat ’em up formula with gorgeous hand-drawn graphics and refined combat mechanics. Up to four players locally (two online) can fight through the streets together, combining moves for devastating team attacks. The unique art style and soundtrack create an incredible atmosphere.
The variety of playable characters and multiple difficulty options keep the game fresh through repeated playthroughs. The survival mode offers an extra challenge for skilled players.
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20. Back 4 Blood (Best Zombie-Slaying Co-Op)
| Our Score | Platforms | Year of Release | Developer |
| 8/10 | Xbox X|S, Xbox One, PC, PS4, PS5 | 2021 | Turtle Rock Studios |
This title, among some of the best horror games of our time, modernizes the Left 4 Dead formula with enhanced graphics and deeper gameplay systems. You and your friends fight through zombie-infested levels, with the card system adding strategic depth and replayability. Each character brings unique abilities to the team, encouraging diverse party compositions.
The game director AI ensures no two runs feel the same, while the PvP mode offers a competitive alternative when players want to face human opponents. Regular updates continue to add new content and features.
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Best Split Screen Games on Xbox
While online gaming dominates in many of the best co-op games Xbox offers, few experiences match the fun of sharing a screen with friends.
Split-screen play keeps the spirit of local multiplayer alive, with some of the best split-screen games like Dirt 5 offering thrilling off-road races for up to four players and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III providing engaging cooperative and competitive modes, including the iconic zombie survival experience.
Whether racing through dynamic tracks or battling waves of undead, split-screen games are sure to create unforgettable moments for you, your friends, and your family.
Explore More Co-Op Games
Looking for more cooperative experiences? The best co-op games offer exciting opportunities to team up with friends, whether it’s battling through the cinematic campaigns of Resident Evil 6 or testing your skills together in Mortal Kombat 1‘s challenging Towers mode.
These games demonstrate the creativity and variety in co-op play, where teamwork and shared victories take center stage.
FAQs
What is the difference between co-op and multiplayer gaming?
Co-op gaming focuses on players working together toward shared goals, while multiplayer can include both cooperative and competitive play. Co-op specifically emphasizes collaboration and teamwork rather than competition between players.
What is the difference between local and online co-op?
Local co-op happens when multiple players share the same console and screen, often called “couch co-op” or “split-screen.” Online co-op connects players over the internet, each using their own console and screen to play together remotely.
Is Elden Ring co-op on Xbox?
Yes, Elden Ring features online co-op on Xbox. Players can summon others for help with bosses and exploration, though the co-op system has some restrictions to maintain game balance and atmosphere.
Is Dragon’s Dogma 2 co-op multiplayer?
No, Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a single-player game. While it features AI companions called Pawns that can be shared online with other players, it doesn’t include direct cooperative multiplayer functionality.
