20 Best Co-op Story-Based Games to Play on PS5

Overview of Co-Op Games on PS5

The PS5 boasts an impressive lineup of co-op games that engage players with captivating narratives, such as “Chicory.”These titles provide entertaining multiplayer experiences.
Despite not being originally designed for cooperative play, “Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake”captivates audiences with its compelling plot, making it a recommended PS5 experience.
Games like “Gotham Knights”and “Avatar”may not offer intricate storylines, yet they still deliver enjoyable narratives and cooperative gameplay for PS5 players.

The PS5 continues to thrive, and 2024 stands to be a landmark year for the console’s gaming landscape. With a robust selection of titles already available, players can enjoy familiar favorites enhanced by backward compatibility and improved graphics.

Many exciting co-op games for the PS5 allow players to join friends either locally or online. While these games often prioritize gameplay over storytelling, there are notable exceptions where narrative depth shines through.

Updated as of December 14, 2024, by Mark Sammut: As we near the end of 2024, the co-op gaming realm has remained captivating. Despite a slowdown in releases, December has introduced one more co-op PS5 title with a compelling story, catering particularly to action RPG fans.

20 Path Of Exile 2

A Brilliant Early Access Title

Path of Exile 2 is currently in early access, which means players only have access to about half of its campaign. Although the endgame features substantial content, the storyline is still a work in progress. Notably, the final release is planned to be free-to-play, which is appealing given Grinding Gear Games’ successful track record with this model. However, it may be prudent for prospective players to wait for the official launch if uncertain about investing in the early access version.

Despite being incomplete, Path of Exile 2 offers polished gameplay that appeals strongly to dedicated fans of isometric RPGs. The game provides profound customization options and an abundance of loot, fulfilling many players’ desires. While the overarching narrative unfolds straightforwardly in a dark fantasy context, it’s well-executed and features engaging lore along with remarkable presentation.

19 Cult Of The Lamb

New co-op feature

Originally a single-player game, Massive Monster’s Cult of the Lamb has recently introduced multiplayer capabilities thanks to the Unholy Alliance update, which adds a co-op mode at no cost to players. This new feature brings a goat companion alongside the titular lamb, providing a fresh dynamic in gameplay without significantly altering the original mechanics.

While not revolutionary, the cooperative aspect of Cult of the Lamb enhances its replay value. The game’s original strengths remain intact, such as its engaging loop of dungeon crawling and cult management. Although the storyline may not be overly remarkable, it is effectively complemented by gameplay features that afford players considerable control over their cult and its followers.

18 Lego Horizon Adventures

All-Ages Friendly Adventure

Lego Horizon Adventures stands out as an unusual addition to the Lego franchise. Based on Guerrilla Games’ Horizon series, which primarily targets older audiences, this title successfully transforms its story into a kid-friendly co-op adventure.

The game simplifies the complex narrative of Horizon Zero Dawn, skillfully retaining essential story elements while crafting a whimsical, approachable experience for younger players. Although it doesn’t capture the somber tones present in the original, it effectively combines fun gameplay with stunning visuals.

17 Cat Quest 3

Delightful Action RPG

The Cat Quest franchise has delivered bite-sized RPGs that charm players with witty dialogue and adorable aesthetics. Cat Quest 3 stands out as the finest entry, offering a delightful adventure for fans.

While it doesn’t center exclusively on cooperative gameplay like its predecessor, the 2024 sequel allows a second player to join in the fun, which enhances the overall experience. Although the plot revolves around a straightforward quest to find treasure, it provides ample opportunities for players to explore a beautifully designed world filled with engaging NPCs.

16 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge

Nostalgic Co-Op Fun

This beat ’em up title may not prioritize a robust narrative, but Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge provides an enjoyable experience filled with nods to the rich history of the TMNT franchise.

While its story doesn’t take center stage, it intertwines cleverly with gameplay and nostalgic references that resonate with fans. If you’re looking for a fun beat ’em up experience with seamless co-op capabilities on the PS5, this title is one of the best choices available.

15 Brothers: A Tale Of Two Sons Remake

A Narrative-Driven Remake

Starbreeze’s Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons was designed around the concept of controlling two siblings simultaneously, enhancing the bond players feel with the characters. The recent remake, while adding cooperative play, doesn’t surpass the original experience.

Yet, this remake still offers an engaging story and a visually enhanced experience on the PS5. Each brother can now be controlled by different players, though the narrative depth and emotional connection might not feel as impactful as the single-player experience.

14 Avatar: Frontiers Of Pandora

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora presents a visually stunning open world, closely following the cinematic universe established by James Cameron. While its storyline may not break new ground, it comfortably delivers a familiar narrative alongside breathtaking gameplay.

Offering instant drop-in multiplayer cohesion, players can explore this vast world together or embark on individual quests. The game effectively combines traditional single-player elements with cooperative features that enhance its replayability.

13 Gotham Knights

A Compelling Yet Flawed Narrative

Gotham Knights experienced a lukewarm reception, often described as disappointing upon release. However, time has been kinder to the game, especially since it is frequently discounted and included in subscription services, making it more accessible.

Despite its issues, Gotham Knights holds a decent storyline, effectively showcasing the growth and camaraderie among its characters throughout the campaign. While it may not reach the narrative heights of legendary comics, it’s an intriguing tale that keeps players engaged.

12 Sea of Stars

Exciting Updates Enhancing Co-Op

November 2024 brought a delightful surprise with the “Dawn of Equinox”update for Sea of Stars, revitalizing the game with substantial changes and introducing 3-player co-op capabilities.

This addition allows players to explore the vibrant world together, enhancing the already enjoyable turn-based gameplay. The update further elevates the player’s experience, making Sea of Stars a must-try for fans of the RPG genre.

11 Solasta: Crown Of the Magister

A Strong D&D Adaptation

Solasta: Crown of the Magister, while overshadowed by Baldur’s Gate 3, still offers a satisfying experience for those looking for a solid Dungeons & Dragons RPG on PS5.

Staying true to the mechanics of the 5th Edition rules, Solasta delivers enjoyable combat and character customization, maintaining accessibility for new players. Its plot, although simple, effectively engages and allows anyone to delve into a fantasy adventure without needing extensive prior knowledge of D&D.

10 Ghost Of Tsushima: Legends (Story Mode)

Mythology-Inspired Narratives

Ghost of Tsushima is celebrated for its stunning single-player experience, laden with breathtaking environments and engaging narrative arcs. However, its cooperative mode, Legends, provides a unique twist by adding mythological elements to Jin’s story.

Legends features multiple gameplay modes, allowing players to engage in both PvE missions and narrative-driven arcs reminiscent of traditional questing. These stories, despite not being groundbreaking, captivate the player with intriguing premises and immersive storytelling.

9 Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

Playable Movie Adaptations

The Lego games carve out a niche for charming, family-friendly co-op experiences, and The Skywalker Saga stands as a definitive selection within this series. This game spans all nine main Star Wars movies, infusing humor and creativity at every turn.

Through localized co-op, friends can dive into the galaxy, tackling challenges together without compromising the narrative flow. While it is primarily couch co-op, the adventure remains enjoyable for players of all ages.

8 Returnal

Fusion of Narrative and Gameplay

Returnal’s “Ascension”update incorporates co-op gameplay, facilitating engaging sessions for up to two players. Although it doesn’t alter the original game’s mechanics significantly, the cooperative feature introduces an extra layer of enjoyment.

This rogue-like title revolves around a solitary astronaut trapped in a relentless time loop on an alien planet. Returnal’s narrative intricately weaves with its gameplay, resulting in a thrilling adventure that ranks among the top PS5 co-op games available.

7 Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2

Epic Scale and Fun

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 expertly blends visceral combat with an engaging campaign, though its story may not leave a lasting impression. This cooperative campaign shines when players tackle challenges together.

While the plot provides context, it’s the immersive gameplay and collaborative effort among friends that elevate the experience. With its grand-scale battles against Tyranid enemies, the game offers thrilling, cooperative excitement.

6 Chicory: A Colorful Tale

A Charming Adventure

For those in search of a peaceful and delightful gaming experience, Chicory: A Colorful Tale offers a unique twist. Players engage in a vibrant world drained of color and are tasked with restoring it through artistic interaction.

This heartwarming story pairs beautifully with cooperative gameplay, making it ideal for relaxed evenings on the couch with friends. It represents a hidden gem among more action-oriented co-op titles.

5 Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands

Whimsical Quest in a Fantasy World

A continuation of the beloved Borderlands franchise, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands invites players to embark on a comical adventure in a tabletop RPG setting. With improved gunplay and humorous dialogue, it stands out within the series.

While its overarching narrative might lack depth, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands thrives on entertaining moments and cooperative chaos, making it a delightful choice for anyone seeking a lighthearted FPS experience.

4 As Dusk Falls

An Interactive Drama of Choices

As Dusk Falls diverges from traditional horror interactive dramas, offering a compelling story that weaves together themes of family, secrets, and life-altering choices. Players navigate through multiple character arcs, making impactful decisions throughout the narrative.

With a distinctive multiplayer mode allowing audience participation, this title creates a shared storytelling experience that enriches gameplay. It’s an excellent choice for group play on game nights.

3 Baldur’s Gate 3

An Exceptional Gaming Experience

Following its successful PC launch, Baldur’s Gate 3 transitioned beautifully onto the PS5, retaining its acclaimed gameplay and captivating storytelling. Players can seamlessly engage in co-op campaigns, rewarding both new and seasoned players with rich content and choices that profoundly affect the narrative.

With emphasis on player agency, this immersive RPG invites friends to explore a fully realized world together while crafting their unique stories within it. Baldur’s Gate 3 represents a commitment to both narrative depth and cooperative engagement.

2 The Quarry

Ideal for Horror Fans

Catering to horror enthusiasts, The Quarry provides an engaging interactive experience, allowing up to eight players to participate in a twisty story inspired by 1980s slashers. Players must navigate a group of teenagers during a fateful night, with player choices determining each character’s fate.

This collective decision-making element adds excitement to gameplay as groups grapple with the tension of survival versus self-preservation, making it an excellent option for game nights.

1 It Takes Two

The Epitome of Co-Op Gaming

Developed by Hazelight Studios, It Takes Two is a poignant exploration of family dynamics, as players guide two dolls representing estranged parents through imaginative realms inspired by their memories.

The gameplay intertwines engaging puzzles with emotional storytelling, emphasizing cooperation as players work together to mend relationships. Its creativity, heartfelt narrative, and cooperative mechanics position It Takes Two as a must-play title, exemplifying the power of games to foster connection and collaboration.

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