How to Choose Multiplayer Games That Encourage Cooperation

18 September 2025

Let’s face it, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of teaming up with your buddies (or even total strangers) to complete a challenging mission or take down a common enemy in a multiplayer game. The triumphs feel sweeter, the losses sting less, and the laughs? Absolutely genuine. But not all multiplayer games are created equal—some pit players against each other, while others focus on teamwork and building connections. If you're hunting for games that spark collaboration and bring people together, you're in the right place!

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into how to choose multiplayer games that encourage cooperation. Whether you're setting up a game night with friends, bonding with family, or just want a more uplifting online experience, we’ve got you covered.

Why Cooperative Games Matter

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to choose the right multiplayer games, let’s talk about why cooperative gaming is so darn important.

Co-op games do more than just entertain—they build trust, improve communication, and foster empathy. Think about it: when you’re solving puzzles together, defending a base, or cooking under pressure (shout out to Overcooked fans), everyone on the team needs to pull their weight. That dynamic naturally leads to stronger bonds and better social interactions—whether you’re gaming with lifelong friends or strangers halfway across the world.

They’re also great for improving real-life skills like:

- Problem-solving
- Quick decision-making
- Leadership and delegation
- Conflict resolution

So, want more than just mindless button-mashing? Keep reading.

Start with Your Intent: What’s the Vibe?

Alright, first things first. Ask yourself:

> "What do I want out of this gaming experience?"

Are you looking to chill and laugh with friends after a long day at work? Or maybe you want something more intense that requires strategic planning and real-time communication? Your intention plays a big role in picking the right type of co-op game.

Here are a few goal-based categories to consider:

- Casual bonding: Games like Fall Guys or Among Us.
- Strategic planning and teamwork: Think Deep Rock Galactic or Rainbow Six Siege.
- Creative collaboration: Want to build epic kingdoms or farms together? Try Minecraft or Stardew Valley.
- Survival and resource management: Titles like Don't Starve Together or Valheim come to mind.

Picking a game without considering the vibe you want is like planning a road trip without deciding which direction to drive. You might end up somewhere cool… or totally lost.

Look for Core Cooperative Mechanics

Not all multiplayer games truly feel like ‘team’ games. For real cooperation, you want games designed around interdependence—you know, where everyone’s actions actually matter.

Here are some mechanics to look out for:

1. Shared Objectives

Games where everyone works toward the same goal are often the most rewarding. That could be saving the world, crafting a fortress, or surviving zombie hordes. When you win together, it creates a sense of shared accomplishment that doesn’t easily fade.

Examples:
- Left 4 Dead 2: A zombie survival game where staying alive depends on your team’s cohesion.
- Phasmaphobia: A ghost-hunting co-op where players need to perform different roles to succeed.

2. Complementary Roles

Some games assign different roles or skills to each player, so you can’t succeed alone no matter how skilled you are. Teamwork becomes essential.

Examples:
- Deep Rock Galactic: Each dwarf class has unique tools—engineers build platforms, scouts light up caves, etc.
- Overwatch 2: Tanks, healers, and damage dealers all need to work in harmony.

3. Resource Sharing

Games that require players to share equipment, health, or other assets foster a “look out for each other” vibe.

Examples:
- Raft: Players must scavenge and craft while balancing the needs of the group.
- It Takes Two: A game built entirely for two players with synchronized mechanics.

Evaluate Communication Needs

Communication is the glue that holds any team together. Some games practically demand it—others, not so much. Ask yourself:

> "Do I want a game that requires talking and planning, or something more relaxed?"

If you lean toward teamwork-based games, choose ones that offer (or benefit from) open communication. Bonus points if the game has built-in voice or text chat.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

| High Communication | Moderate Communication | Low Communication |
|--------------------------|---------------------------|--------------------------|
| Rainbow Six Siege | Minecraft | Fall Guys |
| Among Us (with voice) | Valheim | Journey |
| Sea of Thieves | Deep Rock Galactic | Tetris 99 |

Just know—sometimes a well-timed “watch out!” yelled into a mic will save the whole team.

Consider Player Count and Accessibility

Not everyone has a full squad of five gamers ready to go. Some have just one buddy, while others might enjoy games as a family. So, consider:

- How many players are typically involved?
- Is the game cross-platform or limited to one system?
- Is it easy to learn, or has a steep learning curve?

A great co-op game doesn’t assume everyone’s a pro. Games like Mario Kart, for instance, are simple enough for your mom to join, but fun enough for hardcore players too.

And if your group is spread over different consoles, look for games with cross-play support like Rocket League, Fortnite, or Apex Legends.

Prioritize Games That Reward Team Play

Let’s be honest—some multiplayer experiences just slap a multiplayer mode on top of a solo experience. Others are built from the ground up to reward teamwork. You want the latter.

Do some quick research and read reviews. Does the game encourage solo carries? Or do players have to rely on each other to succeed?

Good signs include:

- Shared XP or loot systems
- Missions that can’t be completed alone
- In-game mechanics penalizing lone-wolf behavior

Avoid games where the MVP always gets all the glory. You're in it together, right?

Don’t Forget Game Length and Pace

Are you looking for quick 10-minute rounds or marathon sessions that take all night? Pacing matters. If you only have a short break, you probably don’t want a co-op survival game that demands hours of setup.

Here’s a short breakdown:

Quick Co-op (15-30 mins)

- Overcooked! 2
- Rocket League
- Among Us

Medium Sessions (30 mins to 1 hour)

- Left 4 Dead 2
- Minecraft Dungeons
- Deep Rock Galactic

Long Hauls (1+ hours)

- Sea of Thieves
- Valheim
- Divinity: Original Sin 2

Choose a game that matches your group’s energy and availability.

Think About Replay Value

You don’t want a game that gets boring after two playthroughs. Look for titles that offer:

- Procedurally generated levels
- New content updates/DLCs
- Multiple difficulty modes
- Unlockable content or achievements

Games like Don't Starve Together keep things spicy with randomized maps and seasons, while Monster Hunter: World offers endless loot and massive creatures to chase down.

Best Cooperative Multiplayer Games (By Genre)

Let’s throw some ideas your way. Here's a quick cheat sheet of excellent co-op games, sorted by type:

🎮 Action/Adventure

- It Takes Two
- A Way Out
- Portal 2 (co-op mode)

🧩 Puzzle/Strategy

- We Were Here series
- Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes
- Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime

🔫 Shooter

- Left 4 Dead 2
- Destiny 2 (Raids)
- Warframe

🛠️ Survival/Crafting

- Valheim
- Minecraft
- The Forest

🌍 Open World

- Sea of Thieves
- GTA Online (Heists)
- No Man’s Sky

Bonus Tip: Check the Community

Here’s a hot tip you won’t find on the back of a game box—community matters. A good game is even better when its player base is helpful, friendly, and welcoming instead of toxic.

Browse forums, Reddit threads, or YouTube comments. Ask questions like:

- Are noobs welcome?
- Do people usually use mics or help each other?
- Are griefers a problem?

A strong, positive community can significantly improve your experience.

Final Thoughts

Choosing multiplayer games that encourage cooperation doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s all about knowing what kind of experience you're after and paying attention to game mechanics that reward teamwork rather than individual success.

Whether you’re building a digital camp with friends, solving brain-busting puzzles, or laying the smackdown on aliens, the right co-op game can turn good moments into unforgettable ones. So gather your gang (or make some new gaming friends online), pick your next adventure, and get ready to team up.

Happy co-op gaming!