Yes, couch-coop video games are still relevant

Since the 90s, the video game industry has seen unparalleled growth. As of writing these words, video games are the most popular hobby bar none. Predictably, with popularity, the hobby has changed a lot since that time. Priorities change, genres come and go and even how we play games shifts. Today, online multiplayer is the most popular option. Now, there is no correct (or incorrect) way to enjoy games but I still think that playing games with other people in the same room has some merits that online multiplayer will never be able to replicate. The so-called “couch-coop“ option is sadly rare nowadays but worry not it is still there! Today, I want to present to you some recent options (available on modern hardware) that offer excellent couch-coop options for your next play!

Made for couch-coop from the ground up - It Takes Two

“It Takes Two“ as my first recommendation was an easy inclusion. After all, the game was made to be played cooperatively. Within it, we follow a couple on the verge of divorce. Magically, they become dolls and the antics that ensue reinforce their bond. The game brings to the table an interesting mix of chaotic platforming and clever puzzles. Just like Portal 2 a decade before it, those puzzles are creative and require the use of rather unique abilities by BOTH players. Each level does a great job of feeling different from the previous mechanically. Frankly, the story is well done: heartwarming and humorous. A perfect option for couples searching for an engaging way to bond with. For similar experiences, look out for Hazelight's previous game “A Way Out“ or Josef Fares‘ first game “A Tale of Two Sons“.

Multiplayer mayhem at home - Overcooked

Say you prefer to have more chaos in your play, then “Overcooked“ is for you. This game is the definition itself of frantic. Players have to work together to fill in cooking orders. They will have to prepare, chop, cook and serve meals under a rather tight time constraint. The best part is the lack of structure the games offer. Every level goes fine… until someone realizes that nobody cleaned the plates. Overcooked is an art - a careful balance between chaos and order. With a good variety of levels, challenges and environments (including the Arctic and volcanoes), it is a blast every single time. The game can be played online (from 2 to 4 players) but really shines when you can scream your lungs out at your partners. An excellent choice for casual gamers too.

Pushing the limit together - Cuphead

Sadly, most people seeking a challenge have to look for online multiplayer or solo experiences. Yet, one (approachable?) option is available. The ever-popular Cuphead is an excellent couch-coop mode. Beyond its incredible cartoon animations, Cuphead offers a brutal, unforgiving experience. I suppose that‘s what happens when you make a deal with the devil. The gameplay revolves around boss battles but also includes short run-and-gun levels. Bosses require precision, quick reflexes and total mastery of patterns. Contrary to most games, where playing coop makes the game easier, Cuphead is possibly even harder in coop (the boss‘ health scaling is noticeable). It makes the experience even more rewarding. If you want a title where you will need to lean on the skills of your partner to get through it, get this one.

Relaxing together - Nintendo Platformers

On the opposite side of things, excellent coop options exist if you prefer a relaxing experience where you can focus on how fun it is to take the time to be with someone you like. On that matter, Nintendo is still the king. In truth, you could take almost any of their flagship platformers and have a great experience. Any Kirby or Yoshi game is excellent in coop. My personal recommendation would be to look for Mario and Donkey Kong titles. Super Mario Wonder‘s coop is spectacular. Be warned that Donkey Kong games tend to be harder, but still very rewarding in coop. Go for Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze here. All those options are excellent with children too. This was always Nintendo‘s strength and it still is.

Collaborative storytelling - Baldur‘s Gate III

For those looking to create a story with someone else, great RPG options are also available. Notably, you could look for Pathfinder video games (Wrath of the Righteous and Kingmaker). But frankly, I have to talk about the most popular option because it has to be the best in coop: Baldur‘s Gate III. My first play left me speechless. No game before it can match just how close to the TTRPGs it gets while being approachable, complete and fresh. Based on the fifth edition of Dungeons & Dragons, you can expect a rich expansive fantasy world, interesting characters and plenty of obstacles. What obstacles? Monsters and puzzles of course. Oh, and plenty of mind flayers antics. The game has literally thousands of hours of fun to offer. You can even use it to run TTRPG games online. Perfect slow grind in couch coop. Oh and feel free to look at Larian‘s other recent titles (mainly Divinity: Original Sin II) for coop. Larian Studios is on fire.

I‘ve got your back - Path of Exile

Last but not least, here‘s an option for those seeking a challenging “time-waster“ to play with friends. Action RPGs were always good options in coop and the modern era makes no exception. Here, two games stand out: Diablo II (Remastered and as good as ever) and its spiritual successor Path of Exile (the first or the second, whatever you prefer). Deep gameplay systems? Check. Intricate character customization? Check. Dark fantasy setting? Check. Infinite replayability and, most importantly, challenge? Check. People have been playing Diablo II for twenty years and I don‘t see things change in the near future. Path of Exile (1) would be a great introduction to the genre since it is free to play! In any case, all three options focus on dungeon crawling, fast reflexes and variety. Sure, many people play online. And don‘t get me wrong, it is great online (as are a lot of great MMOs). But this one is superb with your team at hand. One of my highest recommendations.

And so much more

Those are only a few options that are absolutely worth your time. I really have to stop right there but I have to repeat that looking back at the last few years is only the beginning. Couch-coop was only more common in the past and many options have aged beautifully. This is worth its own post, but let me mention Contra and Streets of Rage at the very least. Both series even have modern reincarnations if you want to test it out in a more approachable way. In any case, I hope you will consider one of these options and take some time to bring your friends or close-ones together for a game night. You‘ll see that it is a whole different beast than what you are used to online.

On that note, cheers and see you next week.