Top Co-op Games on Steam for PC Gamers
The Steam platform has revolutionized the way PC gamers purchase, download, and enjoy video games. With a vast library filled with engaging titles, players have countless options to choose from. The Steam Greenlight initiative has also been a boon for indie developers, enabling them to showcase their products and providing players with a fresh array of games that release consistently each month. The platform’s user-friendly features, such as friends lists and game invitations, make it easy for players to connect and dive into cooperative gameplay.
This collaborative spirit makes Steam an ideal hub for players seeking to embark on adventures together. Whether you prefer AAA titles or indie gems, there’s no shortage of excellent cooperative games available. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best co-op games on Steam and what makes them stand out.
Latest Additions to Co-op Gaming
Updated December 21, 2024 by Mark Sammut: The landscape of PC co-op games continues to evolve, with new entries making waves in the gaming community. Recently, Path of Exile 2 entered early access, introducing both local and online co-op modes. Additionally, a free-to-play hero shooter made an impact on Steam, further expanding options for gamers.
This article will focus predominantly on online co-op experiences, keeping local multiplayer for another discussion.
Marvel Rivals
Steam User Rating: 80%
While multiplayer games often differ from traditional co-op experiences, Marvel Rivals stands out as a notable player in the free-to-play arena. Drawing inspiration from Blizzard’s Overwatch, this hero shooter introduces players to iconic characters such as Spider-Man, Hulk, and Black Widow. Although the gameplay mirrors typical hero shooters, it shines with its brilliant character designs and various abilities tailored to its beloved IP.
The game features engaging 6v6 matches across four gameplay modes: Convoy, Domination, Convergence, and Conquest, that all require varying degrees of teamwork. With over 30 heroes to choose from, players must consider team synergy when selecting their character, as cooperative strategies are crucial for success.
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
Steam User Rating: 80%
After a lengthy wait, Space Marine 2 has arrived, delivering a mix of nostalgia and innovative gameplay. The campaign supports online co-op, enhancing the storytelling experience significantly. Designed for three-player teams, solo players may find themselves accompanied by AI companions, which can sometimes lead to frustration. Despite this, co-op play undoubtedly improves the experience, allowing for deeper engagement in the action-packed environment.
Operations mode offers a grind for additional XP but can feel repetitive. Nonetheless, it’s worth exploring for players seeking to prolong their time in this gritty universe.
Satisfactory
Steam User Rating: 96%
After five years in early access, Satisfactory officially launched on September 10, 2024, and it did not disappoint. This sandbox-style game invites players to design elaborate factories on an alien planet, offering a deep and rewarding experience for fans of resource management and automation.
While co-op supports up to four players, participant compatibility is key to maintaining a smooth experience. When executed with a like-minded group, the cooperative aspect can amplify an already captivating experience.
Helldivers 2
Steam User Rating: 85%
Despite facing server issues at launch, Helldivers 2 showcases an incredible cooperative gameplay experience that captures the essence of team-oriented action. Players unite as operatives on a mission to liberate the galaxy from hostile forces, with engaging gameplay that promotes collaboration.
The tongue-in-cheek narrative enhances the experience further, allowing players to either partner with friends or join random teammates. Regardless of how you choose to play, the game provides addictive mechanics that keep players coming back for more.
Chained Together
Steam User Rating: 89%
Chained Together offers a unique gaming experience, blending platforming and puzzle-solving with an emphasis on frustration. Set in hell with a storyline centered on escape, this game challenges players through a series of trials in a chaotic environment. Designed for up to four players, the cooperative aspect is essential in defusing the tension that accompanies its gameplay.
Lethal Company
Steam User Rating: 97%
Emerging into the spotlight in October 2023, Lethal Company captured the attention of players as an early-access co-op horror game. Set in eerie locations teeming with dangerous creatures, this first-person title requires players to work together to gather loot and complete objectives while staying alive.
Teamwork is crucial, as players can designate roles, guiding each other safely through treacherous environments while meeting quotas that enhance replayability. The game unfolds as a suspenseful experience filled with thrills and challenges.
Baldur’s Gate 3
Steam User Rating: 96%
Baldur’s Gate 3 has redefined CRPGs with its intricate storytelling and complex character creation. Released on Steam in August 2023 after an extensive early access period, its cooperative gameplay allows friends to collaborate on decisions while exploring the Dungeons and Dragons universe.
Players have the flexibility to join campaigns, allowing for diverse interactions and a rich world filled with choices and consequences. The depth of gameplay in both single-player and co-op modes has garnered a dedicated player base since its launch.
Palworld
Steam User Rating: 93%
Launched into early access on January 19, 2024, Palworld quickly attracted attention, achieving a player count exceeding a million on Steam. This open-world survival game blends monster collection with shooter mechanics, offering players a unique and engaging environment.
While the core experience caters to solo play, it supports up to four players in co-op mode, enhancing the dynamics of base building and exploration. With regular updates and evolving gameplay mechanics, Palworld stands out as a must-try title.
Ready Or Not
Steam User Rating: 88%
After two years in early access, Ready or Not launched in December 2023, offering players a tactical cooperative experience in a SWAT simulation. With over 15 large, expertly designed maps, the game encourages strategic team coordination to navigate scenarios effectively.
Although a single player option exists with AI companions, the game is best experienced through multiplayer, where coordination is key to success. Players are encouraged to seek out partners in dedicated online communities, ensuring a robust gaming experience.
Rabbit And Steal
Steam User Rating: 97%
Rabbit and Steel stands out with its unique approach to co-op gameplay, drawing inspiration from MMO raids. Players select classes and face challenging boss encounters utilizing bullet hell mechanics. The combat system encourages tactical skill use, allowing for varied strategies and a cooperative atmosphere.
While designed for multiplayer, new players might benefit from trying the game’s demo on Steam to ensure it aligns with their gaming preferences.
Sons Of The Forest
Steam User Rating: 86%
Following the success of The Forest, Sons of the Forest builds on established gameplay while introducing fresh elements. Currently in early access, developers plan to expand content significantly, ensuring long-term engagement for players.
Although single-player remains an option, the game truly thrives in co-op, where players can collaborate in constructing bases, traps, and defenses against horrific creatures. The chill nature of co-op play may reduce the horror experience, making it a worthwhile endeavor for those familiar with the original title.
Borderlands 3
Steam User Rating: 85%
The Borderlands franchise has consistently championed co-op play, and Borderlands 3 shines with its compelling gameplay and dynamic visual style. While some may prefer earlier iterations, this installment boasts the most refined mechanics and maintains robust multiplayer functionality.
Despite mixed reviews regarding narrative elements, the shooting and looting mechanics keep players entertained, offering seamless cooperative play with minimal access hurdles.
The Outlast Trials
Steam User Rating: 93%
Known for its prominence in the horror genre, The Outlast Trials introduces multiplayer elements to a previously solo experience. Players navigate through chilling experiments in a group of four, completing objectives within intricate environments reminiscent of earlier titles.
Although primarily designed for cooperation, the game maintains an engaging narrative, integrating lore to enhance the overall atmosphere while challenging friends to face the terrors lurking ahead.
Stardew Valley
Steam User Rating: 98%
As one of the most beloved indie experiences, Stardew Valley brings cooperative farming to the forefront. Up to four players can collaborate on a shared farm, although management dynamics ensure a unique experience for each participant.
The game encourages collaborative play with features such as individual NPC marriages and custom quest tracking, all while creating a delightful rural environment to explore and develop as a team.
For The King
Steam User Rating: 88%
Cooperative turn-based RPGs shine thanks to titles like For The King. In this adventure, up to three players choose their classes and embark on a quest filled with battles and decisions that shape the story.
Players navigate diverse areas while making crucial decisions through dice rolls. The sequel, For The King 2, is also available on Steam, offering an expanded cooperative experience.
Remnant 2
Steam User Rating: 84%
Gunfire Games has captivated players with its blend of third-person shooter mechanics and Soulslike gameplay in Remnant 2. Building on its predecessor, this sequel offers even more classes, build options, and varied environments while retaining procedurally generated elements.
The game supports 3-player co-op, emphasizing teamwork to overcome formidable foes and significant challenges. While it’s playable solo, cooperative gameplay unlocks new dynamics and strategies essential for tackling the game’s toughest moments.
Monster Hunter: World or Rise
Steam User Rating: 88% (World) & 81% (Rise)
Both Monster Hunter: World and Monster Hunter: Rise support up to four-player online co-op. While each game has its nuances, newcomers should choose based on visual appeal or personal preference, particularly towards their respective expansions, which enhance gameplay significantly.
The co-op functionality in both titles ensures that hunting formidable monsters feels more accessible and minimizes grind fatigue, breathing fresh life into the classic franchise.
Overcooked! 2
Steam User Rating: 90%
Overcooked! 2 offers a delightful mix of strategy and cooking challenges, requiring players to collaborate to prepare and serve meals under time pressures. As levels scale in difficulty, teamwork becomes essential to navigating chaotic kitchen environments.
Each stage features a star rating system that incentivizes efficiency and skill, making it an entertaining experience for groups looking for a lighthearted challenge.
Content Warning
Steam User Rating: 93%
Steam’s April Fool’s release, Content Warning, gained traction for its unique premise designed for streaming entertainment. Players create “scary”videos for an in-game platform to earn virtual currency, combining creativity with chaos.
This entertaining concept has gained recognition, and while its longevity may not match some popular titles, its charm and quality should be felt before time runs out.
Grounded
Steam User Rating: 89%
In Grounded, players navigate a backyard as shrunken children, building bases and crafting tools to survive amongst the giant insects. The survival aspects are complemented by humorous writing and charming graphics. While the gameplay is enjoyable alone, co-op play reveals new layers of enjoyment and strategizing.
Players can experience the richness of the story together, turning survival into a collaborative journey that deepens the overall gameplay experience.
Phasmophobia
Steam User Rating: 96%
For those seeking a truly spooky experience, Phasmophobia offers a thrilling journey into ghost hunting. Players gather evidence of paranormal activity while facing malevolent spirits, with effective cooperation necessary for survival.
The game demands communication and strategizing, making it one of the standout titles in the horror co-op genre.
It Takes Two
Steam User Rating: 95%
It Takes Two is a triumph in cooperative gaming, offering a captivating story complemented by vibrant art and engaging gameplay mechanics. Players navigate through a series of action-adventure challenges, requiring both teamwork and communication to progress.
This multisensory experience showcases the beauty of collaboration, presenting a balanced and rewarding journey for pairs of players.
Crab Champions
Steam User Rating: 98%
Crab Champions combines charm and gameplay in an unexpected package, featuring fast-paced third-person shooter mechanics. While currently in early access, the developers regularly implement patches improving gameplay and adding appealing content.
The smooth mechanics lend themselves to exhilarating gameplay, enhancing the experience when enjoyed with friends in cooperative settings.
Terraria
Steam User Rating: 97%
While Minecraft may reign supreme, many players cherish Terraria for its captivating 2D platforming adventure. Featuring diverse biomes, unique bosses, and engaging combat mechanics, this title provides a plethora of challenges.
Though engaging as a solo experience, Terraria truly shines when played with friends, allowing groups to explore its expansive environments together.
Left 4 Dead 2
Steam User Rating: 97%
Left 4 Dead 2 remains a courted choice among cooperative zombie shooters, even after the emergence of newer titles like Back 4 Blood. This sequel captures the essence of frantic gameplay and offers players exhilarating campaigns filled with undead mayhem.
Although playable solo, the game is best experienced in co-op, where players can access a wealth of custom content and mods, ensuring the experience remains fresh.
Valheim
Steam User Rating: 95%
Valheim has emerged as an indie hit, inviting players into a Viking world rich with survival elements. Constructing shelters, crafting weapons, and traversing through challenging landscapes is integral to the experience, perfect for players who enjoy a balance of challenge and strategy.
As players delve deeper into the game, they can enlist friends to join them on their journey, enhancing the adventure and survival elements.
Don’t Starve Together
Steam User Rating: 95%
The popular indie title, Don’t Starve, translates its survival challenges into a multiplayer experience with Don’t Starve Together. Players can collaborate, each selecting a character with unique abilities to withstand and thrive in a whimsical yet deadly world.
The game encourages cooperation to gather resources, build shelters, and fend off the ever-present dangers lurking within procedurally-generated environments.
Payday 2
Steam User Rating: 89%
Payday 2 takes the thrill of heists and crafts an entire game around executing elaborate robberies. Players face diverse missions that require stealth or all-out action as they navigate security systems, grab loot, and maintain teamwork.
With a rich character customization system, Payday 2 ensures every playthrough remains unique, inviting players to experiment with different strategies.
Killing Floor 2
Steam User Rating: 89%
Though not as prominent as some competitors, Killing Floor 2 still delivers exhilarating zombie-slaying action along with a dedicated player base. While it can be played solo, the real fun comes from teaming up with friends to combat waves of challenging enemies.
The gameplay benefits from a variety of class roles and character customization, keeping battles fresh as players can continuously adapt their strategies.
Sea Of Thieves
Steam User Rating: 90%
Sea of Thieves invites players into an expansive pirate world ripe for exploration and adventure. Initially met with skepticism, the game has grown into a beloved title with a multitude of activities, catering to both co-op enthusiasts and competitive players.
With a wide array of missions and events, players can embark on treasure hunts, encounter quests, or simply enjoy the thrill of navigating the open sea alongside friends.
One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4
Steam User Rating: 92%
One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4 represents a strong entry in the Warriors series, combining fast-paced combat with a plethora of beloved characters from the One Piece universe. While the title has specific co-op limitations, it offers a unique opportunity to engage in chaotic brawls with friends.
Players can unlock modes allowing multiple participants, resulting in exciting experiences full of fan service and engaging content.
Barotrauma
Steam User Rating: 93%
Barotrauma drops players into a tense submarine mission set in an alien ocean. The teamwork-oriented mechanics ensure that success relies on each player’s ability to fulfill their unique roles effectively. This thrilling environment can lead to memorable moments filled with both laughter and fear.
The cooperative dynamics are central to this experience, making it a captivating challenge that encourages communication under pressure.
Rotwood
Steam User Rating: 72%
Though it may face tough competition, Rotwood offers a unique combination of combat and roguelite elements. With colorful animations and fast-paced action, this title encourages players to group together for more effective gameplay.
While enjoyable solo, the cooperative experience elevates the fun factor, allowing teams to strategize and tackle complex challenges together.
Portal 2
Steam User Rating: 98%
Portal 2 remains a timeless puzzle game, with its cooperative story mode presenting challenges that require both players to think creatively in sync. This experience rewards teamwork, showcasing the mechanics that have made the Portal series so beloved.
The careful design of each puzzle ensures hours of cooperative fun, making this title an essential play for puzzle game enthusiasts.
Deep Rock Galactic
Steam User Rating: 97%
In Deep Rock Galactic, players take on the roles of dwarven miners embarking on various missions to gather precious resources. This cooperative first-person shooter combines humor with teamwork, compelling players to collaborate closely to achieve objectives.
The game’s levels challenge players across various tasks while providing a colorful, campy atmosphere full of exploration and adventure.
Dead Island 2
Steam User Rating: 64%
Dead Island 2 offers an accessible entry into the first-person action genre after its recent Steam release. Maintaining the visceral action of its predecessor, players can join forces to combat zombies in a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles.
The co-op experience amplifies the mayhem, allowing teams to execute chaotic strategies as they navigate through hordes of undead while enjoying solid mechanics and a robust post-game structure.
Call Of Duty: Black Ops 6 (Zombies)
Steam User Rating: 54%
Though Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 can be acquired via Game Pass, its return to classic Zombies gameplay rekindles excitement among long-time fans. While the single-player narrative captivates with innovative gameplay mechanics, the Zombies mode shines as a staple of cooperative fun.
Players team up to face relentless waves of zombies, utilizing upgrades and strategic gameplay to survive in engaging settings as they engage in lethal antics.
Starship Troopers: Extermination
Steam User Rating: 84%
Upon exiting early access, Starship Troopers: Extermination capitalizes on the franchise’s legacy, providing engaging missions that uphold the spirit of cooperation. The multiplayer focus ensures that players actively maintain team coordination against hordes of alien bugs in a universe that evokes memories of the original film.
With a blend of base-building mechanics and fast-paced action, the game invites players to strategize in large-scale engagements that challenge their skills and teamwork.
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