The era of the solo gamer is over. True glory is found sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with your allies—or rivals—on the couch, sharing in the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat. When it comes to local multiplayer games, the PlayStation 5 is a modern colosseum, offering a stunning arena for these shared battles. Forget lag and dropped connections; this is about pure, unfiltered gaming.
My friends and I recently cleared a whole weekend for a gaming marathon. We powered up the PS5, ready for some epic co-op, and spent the first hour just debating what to play. After cycling through a few options, we landed on a perfect mix that kept us hooked for hours. This list is forged from that experience—a definitive gauntlet of titles that will turn any game night into a legendary event.
7 Unmissable Local Multiplayer Games for Your PS5
1. It Takes Two
This isn’t just a game; it’s the gold standard for co-op design. You and a partner play as a clashing couple turned into dolls, forced to work together through a wildly imaginative world. Every level introduces a new, mind-bending mechanic that requires flawless communication and teamwork. It’s a masterpiece that is playable only in co-op.
2. Street Fighter 6
The king of fighters is back and better than ever. With its hyper-stylish visuals, revolutionary control schemes for both newcomers and veterans, and bone-crunching combat, SF6 is the ultimate one-on-one showdown. Settle any argument, claim bragging rights, and unleash your inner world warrior.
3. Gran Turismo 7
For the purists, the racing fanatics, the automotive dreamers. GT7 brings photorealistic graphics and obsessive detail to split-screen racing. Feel the tension as you and a friend duel for position on world-famous tracks, each turn a calculated risk. This is as close as you can get to a real high-speed duel without leaving your living room.
4. Overcooked! All You Can Eat
Prepare for chaos, laughter, and maybe a few friendly arguments. This game bundles both Overcooked! titles into one glorious package of culinary madness. You and up to three friends must work together to prep, cook, and serve dishes in increasingly absurd kitchens. It’s the ultimate test of communication and composure under pressure.
5. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands
Take the insane, loot-and-shoot action of Borderlands and inject it with a heavy dose of high-fantasy chaos. In split-screen co-op, you and a partner can blast and spell-sling your way through a Dungeons & Dragons-inspired world filled with skeletons, dragons, and Tina’s unpredictable narration. It’s an RPG shooter built for two.
6. TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge
A flawless love letter to the golden age of arcade beat-’em-ups. Team up with up to three other players locally and unleash ninja fury on the Foot Clan. The controls are simple, the action is relentless, and the retro aesthetic is perfect. It’s pure, unadulterated fun and a must-play for any group.
7. Baldur’s Gate 3
For those seeking a deeper, more strategic experience, the Game of the Year has you covered. The entire epic RPG can be played in two-player, split-screen co-op. Forge your characters, make critical decisions that shape the world, and engage in brilliant turn-based combat together. It’s a massive, shared adventure unlike any other.
Quick Tips
- Controller Check: Before everyone arrives, make sure all your controllers are charged and synced to the console. Nothing kills the mood faster than a dead battery.
- Snack Strategy: Plan your snacks and drinks ahead of time. You don’t want to pause during a critical boss fight for a supply run.
- Master Your Build: For a deep RPG like Baldur’s Gate 3, going in with a plan for your character is key. Consulting a high-quality guide, like this one on the best builds for every class from Rock Paper Shotgun, can be a game-changer for your co-op session.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Creates unforgettable social experiences and in-person connections.
- No internet lag or connection issues to ruin the fun.
- A single copy of the game provides entertainment for multiple people.
Cons:
- Requires investment in multiple DualSense controllers.
- The screen is split, reducing the viewing area for each player.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you play 4-player split-screen on all these games?
No. The player count varies. TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge and Overcooked! support up to 4 players locally. Others, like Baldur’s Gate 3 and It Takes Two, are specifically for 2 players. Always check the game’s details.
Do these games require a high skill level to enjoy?
There’s a great mix. Games like Street Fighter 6 and Gran Turismo 7 have a high skill ceiling for dedicated players, but also have accessibility options for newcomers. Overcooked! and TMNT are easy to pick up and play for anyone.
Are there good local multiplayer games for kids on PS5?
Absolutely. While this list leans toward a teen and adult audience, titles like Sackboy: A Big Adventure and the LEGO Star Wars sagas are fantastic, family-friendly options for local co-op.
Conclusion
Your PS5 is more than just a portal to solitary digital worlds; it’s a powerful engine for creating shared memories. These seven local multiplayer games represent the pinnacle of couch co-op, offering unforgettable experiences to share with friends and family. Once you’ve mastered these titles, why not elevate your entire setup? Learn how to get the most out of your hardware with our 13 PlayStation 5 tips, and if you’re looking to take your battles on the road, discover the 8 tips for choosing the best portable PS5 panel. For even more guides on gaming, tech, and beyond, explore everything we have to offer at howtoresults.com.