Games
Sometimes playing online just doesn't cut it. Take a peek at our list of the 10 best couch co-op titles on Xbox One and invite a partner over for some games.
We all play online multiplayer games but there's no denying that there's something special in sitting down in front of the TV with a friend or family member and working together to take on a horde of flesh-eating zombies or getting heated in a head-to-head brawl fight.
It can be overwhelming when trying to pick out a multiplayer game though, especially on Xbox One where the store is oversaturated with titles. That's why we've done the work for you and put together this list of the 10 best Xbox One couch co-op games – take a look.
1. Cuphead
StudioMDHR’s 1930’s animation-inspired run-and-gun Cuphead is notoriously brutal in its difficulty. You're met with a barrage of projectiles and tricky platforming challenges that lead to repeated deaths in each and every stage, with boss fights feeling almost impossible at times.
Although the game is really difficult, repeated attempts at each stage become extremely rewarding as there's an upgrade system, allowing you and whoever you're playing with to choose different powers and upgrade paths, mixing and matching your skills and attacks. For masochists or just those who love a challenge, Cuphead is the perfect co-op game to put your and your partner's skills to the test.
2. Overcooked 2
If you and your pal love the challenge of a chaotic and incredibly fast-paced game then Overcooked 2 just might be for you. You work in a variety of kitchens, cooking and serving up meals for hungry patrons, all whilst working together to overcome obstacles such as your food catching fire and the floor collapsing.
It's might sound like one to skip if you're not a foodie but we can assure you that it's more enjoyable than it sounds and is full of surprises that will keep you and your culinary partner on your toes.
3. Nidhogg 2
In what is essentially a massive game of tug-of-war, Nidhogg 2 puts you and your partner head-to-head in a heated battle to take control of the screen. Once you have control, it’s up to you to fight all the way to your end of the battle arena and win the match – if your partner doesn’t kill you to take it for themselves that is.
If you loved the first game, you’ll know exactly why Nidhogg 2 is absolutely perfect for couch co-op. With new graphics and expanded multiplayer functions, it’s a cut above the original.
4. 7 Days to Die
Bashing in zombie brains should always be fun, regardless of whether you're playing with a friend or not. But 7 Days to Die has a survival element to it where it's beneficial to play with somebody else as you have to craft medical supplies, loot houses and more – having an extra pair of hands to help is crucial during a zombie apocalypse.
In this open-world survival situation, you're in constant need of sustenance whilst running around, so looking for food and water sources is a must. Sending either yourself or your partner off to scavenge whilst the other person looks for materials to build with is a sure-fire way to get things done quickly. Make sure to stay on high alert for zombies and don't be afraid to abandon your task if your partner needs help fighting off the undead.
5. Diablo III
Diablo III is a dungeon-crawler RPG that's perfect for couch co-op between fantasy fans. Picking between a plethora of different classes with different skill sets and abilities, you're tasked with beating up Diablo, the series' main antagonist. There's also a bunch of side stories and quests if you want to put the main campaign on the backburner.
Additionally, the Xbox One version of Diablo III not only contains the base game but the Reaper of Souls expansion, giving you and your player two even more content to blitz through.
6. A Way Out
Have you ever watched someone else play a story-driven game and wished that you could also get in on the action? You're in luck - Hazelight Studios has created a co-op cinematic experience often only seen in single-player titles.
A Way Out redefines the split screen experience with interactive screen borders and audio that seamlessly shifts between players depending on the importance in the story. Whether you are right next to your partner or far away in another room, both of your actions feed into the games narration in a meaningful way. The game cleverly creates situations where both players have to work together to complete tasks, while also giving each player the room to breathe independently.
7. Rocket League
With the perfect combination of both football and driving, Rocket League is arguably one of the best couch co-op games on the market. Gameplay sees both you and your partner operate a fully customisable rocket-powered car as you try and score goals either against the enemy team or each other if you choose to play in separate teams.
Each match is roughly five minutes long which is great for those who get bored with lengthy, fleshed-out multiplayer matches. There’s also a ranked competitive mode if you and your partner feel like you’re skilled enough for the challenge.
8. The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth
If you’ve never played a rogue-like game before then The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth should be your entry point into the genre. Playing as a multitude of unique characters, you start off powerless as you work your way through the dungeon, collecting powerups and defeating countless enemies as you go.
Each dungeon floor gets harder so having a friend playing alongside you means that you’ll at least have some backup should things start to turn south. You’ll probably still die a lot though but at least you won’t be alone.
9. Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Despite having technical setbacks at launch, Halo: The Master Chief Collection is still a great deal. The collection includes the remastered Halo 2 Anniversary edition, Halo CE and Halo 3-4. From those that grew up playing Blood Gulch multiplayer at LAN parties to newcomers who never had an Xbox or 360, Halo: MCC is the complete package.
With all four campaigns allowing for local split-screen co-op, Halo’s arcade style shooting makes for a fun experience both in the campaign and multiplayer.
10. Borderlands: The Handsome Collection
Borderlands: The Handsome Collection is a twin pack of both Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel and Borderlands 2, which are huge open world first-person shooters styled like an MMORPG. They boast a gigantic, fleshed out main story campaign as well as a horde of side quests and missions, perfect for playing through with a buddy. There are a handful of different characters to choose from, each with their own unique class and abilities so have a play around and see which play style suits you best.
If you like dark and crude humour, fast-paced action and cartoon-style graphics then Borderlands: The Handsome Collection should be right up your alley.
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