While online multiplayer gaming is experiencing an unprecedented surge in popularity, there remains a dedicated community of gamers who appreciate the charm of local multiplayer experiences with friends or family. Despite the diminishing prevalence of split-screen and couch co-op games, there are still noteworthy titles that cater to those seeking such gaming experiences. If you’re in search of such games, you’ve landed on the right page. Here are the top 10 split-screen and couch co-op games for PC that you should consider trying out in 2023.
1. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
LEGO games stand out as exemplary split-screen co-op options on the PC platform, a trend that continues with LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, the latest installment developed by Double T or Travelers Tale.
This game serves as a comprehensive compilation of every mainline Star Wars movie, offering players the opportunity to immerse themselves in the epic sci-fi space opera story, infused with the trademark LEGO humor. The seamless functionality of split-screen or couch co-op is evident as soon as a second controller is connected, making it the ideal choice for those seeking the ultimate split-screen gaming experience with their preferred second player.
2. Overcooked! 2
Undoubtedly one of the premier couch co-op experiences on PC, Overcooked 2 is a collaborative, team-based game that invites you and your friends to unite forces to complete a series of cooking tasks. The gameplay involves effective communication and navigation through diverse, chaotic levels to fulfill a variety of orders.
Despite lacking split-screen support, Overcooked 2 compensates with a highly acclaimed local couch co-op feature. The game’s camera orientation is so adept that split-screen becomes unnecessary. If you and your friends are gathering for a house party and in search of an ideal party title, consider giving this a try.
3. A Way Out
Several split-screen co-op games are indispensable additions to this list, offering experiences that are a must-play. A Way Out, crafted by Hazelight, stands out as a prime example where the entire game is meticulously designed around the concept of split-screen co-op.
In this narrative, you and your friend assume the roles of two American felons, each with their own motivations, joining forces to orchestrate a prison break in pursuit of reuniting with their loved ones. Notably, this game cannot be played solo; you must enlist the company of a friend. Therefore, if an authentic split-screen experience is what you seek, A Way Out is among the featured games on this list that perfectly aligns with the specified criteria.
4. It Takes Two
Another gaming venture from Hazelight that is exclusively crafted for a split-screen experience, It Takes Two is an adventure game that immerses players in the roles of a pair of estranged partners transformed into miniature dolls. Faced with the kidnapping of their child, they set aside their differences to collaborate and rescue their offspring. Renowned for its entertaining co-op puzzles and emphasis on teamwork, this game is a definite choice for those seeking a more demanding experience than our previous suggestion.
5. Portal 2
Portal 2 revolves around the intricacies of puzzle-solving and traversing various dimensions to decipher each puzzle segment. The multiplayer mode offers an entirely distinct co-op experience, where you and a friend collaborate to solve puzzles and surmount obstacles. This game is an essential for enthusiasts of puzzle-solving.
While the multiplayer mode in Portal 2 may not match the intrigue and excitement of the single-player campaign, it still provides a unique cooperative gaming experience. Moreover, setting up local co-op may involve navigating through a few hurdles. However, if you’re prepared to navigate these challenges, then this game stands as the perfect choice for you and a friend.
6. Road Redemption
Do you recall the classic Road Rash released by EA Games years ago? Despite the absence of an official remaster or sequel, independent developers took the initiative to introduce a spiritual successor. Meet Road Redemption, a bike racing game that adds a twist by incorporating punches, kicks, and intense combat as you vie for that coveted first place.
While Road Redemption may seem straightforward in its racing premise, it boasts a key feature on this list. Yes, you can engage in local split-screen co-op in this game. Notably, Road Redemption supports up to four-player split-screen co-op, a rarity in recent times. Granted, the game could benefit from additional polish and content, but it offers a delightful experience for you and your friends to explore, provided the genre aligns with your preferences.
7. Castle Crashers
Castle Crashers stands as a four-player brawler, guiding players through numerous levels as they combat enemies in a quest to rescue their queen. With its charming cartoony visuals and a whimsical background soundtrack, Castle Crashers elevates the overall gameplay experience.
Whether you opt for online play or local co-op mode, this game delivers an exceptional experience. It proves to be an outstanding choice if you seek a hack-and-slash adventure to embark on with your friends.
8. Cuphead
Cuphead, a run-and-gun shooting game, places you in control of the animated characters Cuphead and his brother Mugman, who find themselves in a predicament after a deal with the devil takes an unexpected turn. Now burdened with a debt to settle, they embark on a mission to collect multiple souls for the devil, navigating through various levels adorned with meticulously recreated retro cartoon visuals.
Picking up Cuphead is a delight, but mastering it proves to be an exceptionally challenging endeavor, making it an essential addition for anyone seeking an enjoyable local co-op game on their PC. Additionally, with the introduction of the Delicious Last Course DLC, players can now assume the role of a new character in lieu of Cuphead or Mugman.
9. Baldur’s Gate 3
Extensive discussions about Baldur’s Gate 3 have echoed throughout the gaming community, a sentiment echoed by numerous accolades as the winner of multiple Game of the Year awards in 2023. Serving as the sequel to the classic Dungeons & Dragons (DnD) computer role-playing game (CRPG), the narrative unfolds as you traverse the realms of Faerun following your abduction, alongside others, by Mind Flayers with the intent to create a Thrall.
As the Mind Flayer plan unravels, you and a diverse group of individuals embark on a journey through the lands, aiming to rid yourselves of the tadpole while becoming embroiled in conflicts that could alter the fate of Baldur’s Gate forever.
Noteworthy for its replayability, freedom of choice, and respect for player agency, Baldur’s Gate 3 offers a compelling gaming experience. Additionally, if you possess two separate controllers, you have the option to engage in split-screen co-op mode. It’s worth noting, however, that during testing, it became apparent that the use of two controllers is a necessity, preventing the combination of one keyboard and mouse with one controller.
This design choice aligns with the distinct orientation of controllers compared to the alternative input method. Nevertheless, we couldn’t resist recommending this title.
10. Left 4 Dead 2
The initial Left 4 Dead installment brought forth a collaborative zombie-killing experience tailored for two players. The thrill and exhilaration of smashing zombie skulls with an array of weapons while collaborating with a friend in split-screen mode remain unparalleled. Additionally, in the “Versus” mode, the cooperative fun extends to accommodating up to four players.
Embark on a journey with your comrade in the post-apocalyptic world, engaging in skull-bashing endeavors to survive amidst the zombie horde. The game doesn’t just stop at the basics; it introduces exciting new campaigns and modes that delve deeper into the narrative, presenting more opportunities to exterminate waves of zombies. For all enthusiasts of zombie-killing adventures, this game is an absolute essential in your collection.
Honorable Mentions
- Darksiders Genesis ($29.99)
- Risk of Rain Returns ($14.99)
- Bread and Fred ($14.99)
- Untitled Goose Game ($19.99)
These are our selected choices for the finest split-screen and couch co-op games available for PC. We’ve highlighted some of the must-try titles that warrant your time and consideration. Nevertheless, if you believe there are other exceptional split-screen games worth mentioning, please don’t hesitate to share them in the comments below.
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