20 Best Co-Op Games on Steam for Fun Multiplayer Gaming in 2024
Warning: Some of the video games listed below are not suitable for younger viewers. Please use caution and check each game’s ESRB rating before allowing children to play it, especially those rated M for Mature. M-rated video games may contain content that is inappropriate for children and/or unlabeled content that exposes younger viewers to explicit messages and themes.
There’s nothing quite like teaming up with friends to take on challenges, solve puzzles, or explore virtual worlds together. Steam offers a vast library of cooperative games that let you do just that. Whether you’re looking for casual fun or intense multiplayer action, there’s something for everyone. Here are our top picks for the best co-op games on Steam in 2024.
Similarly, if you pull off a great move in a game, or defeat a boss-monster against all odds with only one sliver of health left for yourself, and nobody’s there to see it, does it even really count? Sometimes, you need a buddy (or five) to make a fun gaming session feel worthwhile. That’s where co-op games come in.
Top Co-Op Games on Steam
1. Helldivers 2
This intense top-down shooter puts you and up to three friends in the boots of elite soldiers fighting for freedom across the galaxy. Work together to complete missions and survive increasingly difficult alien hordes in Helldivers 2.
2. Palworld
Combine monster collecting with survival crafting in this unique open-world adventure. Catch and train creatures called “Pals” to help you build, fight, and explore a vast landscape with friends in Palworld.
3. Lethal Company
Team up with up to four players as contractors exploring abandoned moons for valuable scrap. Be careful though – these seemingly deserted facilities are filled with terrifying creatures and deadly traps in Lethal Company.
4. Baldur’s Gate 3
Embark on an epic Dungeons & Dragons adventure alone or with up to three friends. This sprawling RPG offers unprecedented player choice, deep tactical combat, and a rich, reactive world to explore in Baldur’s Gate 3.
5. Valheim
Explore a procedurally-generated Norse world with up to 10 players in this brutal survival game. Build, craft, and battle mythical beasts as you progress through different biomes and challenge fierce bosses in Valheim.
6. Monster Hunter: Rise
Join forces with up to three other hunters to take down massive beasts in this action-packed RPG. Craft powerful weapons and armor from your conquests as you tackle increasingly challenging hunts in Monster Hunter: Rise.
7. Deep Rock Galactic
Team up as dwarven space miners in this 4-player co-op FPS. Explore procedurally generated caves, mine resources, and fight off alien swarms as you complete varied mission objectives in Deep Rock Galactic.
8. It Takes Two
This charming adventure is built from the ground up for two players. With constantly changing gameplay and a heartfelt story, It Takes Two offers a unique co-op experience that will test your teamwork.
9. Phasmophobia
Team up with 3 other ghost hunters to investigate paranormal activity. Use various tools to gather evidence and identify the spirit - if you dare to face the horrors that await you in Phasmophobia.
10. Overcooked! 2
Chaotic cooking fun for up to 4 players. Prepare and serve meals in increasingly ridiculous kitchens as you race against the clock in this frantic culinary adventure Overcooked! 2.
More Great Co-Op Games on Steam
- Stardew Valley - Build the farm of your dreams and explore a charming village with up to 3 friends.
- Sea of Thieves - Set sail on the high seas, battle other pirates, and seek buried treasure in this immersive pirate sandbox.
- Divinity: Original Sin 2 - Embark on an epic fantasy RPG adventure with deep tactical combat and a reactive story.
- Portal 2 - Test your problem-solving skills and friendship in this classic puzzle game’s co-op campaign.
- Terraria - Dig, fight, and build in this expansive 2D sandbox game that’s even more fun with friends.
- Don’t Starve Together - Survive a harsh wilderness filled with surreal creatures and dangers.
- Borderlands 3 - Loot and shoot your way through a comedic sci-fi adventure with an arsenal of ridiculous weapons.
- Factorio - Work together to build and manage increasingly complex automation systems on an alien world.
- Rust - Survive a harsh multiplayer environment where every other player could be friend or foe.
- Warhammer: Vermintide 2 - Battle hordes of enemies in this intense first-person melee action game set in the Warhammer Fantasy world.
Choosing the Right Co-Op Game
When selecting a co-op game on Steam, consider these factors:
- Number of players supported
- Gameplay style (action, strategy, puzzle, etc.)
- Difficulty level
- Time commitment required
- Whether you prefer online or local co-op
Don’t forget to check system requirements and make sure all players’ PCs can run the game smoothly.
FAQ: Co-Op Gaming on Steam
What are the best free co-op games on Steam?
Some top free co-op games on Steam include:
These games offer hours of multiplayer fun without any upfront cost.
How do I find co-op games on Steam?
To find co-op games on Steam:
- Go to the Steam store
- Click on “Categories” in the top menu
- Select “Co-op” under “Feature”
- Use additional filters to narrow down your search
You can also use the search bar and include “co-op” in your query.
What’s the difference between co-op and multiplayer games?
- Co-op games: Players work together towards a common goal
- Multiplayer games: Can include both cooperative and competitive play
Co-op specifically focuses on collaboration, while multiplayer is a broader term for any game involving multiple players.
How many players can join in Steam co-op games?
The number of players supported in Steam co-op games varies:
- 2 players: Portal 2, It Takes Two
- 4 players: Deep Rock Galactic, Overcooked! 2
- 8+ players: Valheim (up to 10), Rust (varies by server)
Always check the game’s store page for specific player count information.
Can I play Steam co-op games with friends on different platforms?
Some Steam games support cross-platform play, but not all. Games that offer cross-platform co-op include:
Check each game’s details for cross-platform compatibility.
What are some good co-op games for beginners?
Beginner-friendly co-op games on Steam include:
These games offer intuitive gameplay and gradual learning curves, making them perfect for newcomers to co-op gaming.
Conclusion
Co-op gaming on Steam offers endless possibilities for fun with friends. Whether you’re into intense action, strategic gameplay, or casual adventures, there’s a perfect co-op game waiting for you. From the chaotic cooking of Overcooked! 2 to the epic quests of Divinity: Original Sin 2, these games offer unforgettable multiplayer experiences. Don’t forget to check out Steam sale events throughout the year to grab some of these great titles at discounted prices. Gather your friends, fire up your favorite voice chat app, and dive into the wonderful world of co-op gaming!
