Local co-op gaming is alive and well on PS5, offering couch companions the chance to team up, laugh, and occasionally argue over shared screens. The console’s DualSense controllers and fast loading make jumping into two-player adventures effortless. This guide rounds up the best local co-op games PS5 owners should play side by side in 2026.
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Quick answer: For most people in 2026, the best local co op games ps5 (2026) is the It Takes Two — our #1 rated choice. See the full ranked comparison, alternatives and buying advice below.
Why the best local co-op games PS5 offers matter
In an era of online-everything, sitting next to a friend and sharing an adventure still feels special. The best local co-op games PS5 has range from cooperative puzzle-platformers to chaotic party titles. To enjoy them fully, you need a second controller, and many households keep a spare DualSense wireless controller charged and ready for spontaneous co-op nights.
Top local co-op PS5 games compared
| Game | Platform | Genre | Why It’s Great | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| It Takes Two | PS5, PC | Co-op Platformer | Designed entirely for two players sharing an adventure | 10/10 |
| Overcooked! All You Can Eat | PS5, more | Co-op Party | Frantic kitchen chaos that tests teamwork | 9/10 |
| Moving Out 2 | PS5, more | Co-op Party | Hilarious cooperative furniture-hauling puzzles | 8/10 |
| Minecraft | PS5, more | Sandbox | Split-screen building and survival for creative pairs | 10/10 |
| Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart | PS5 | Action Platformer | Gorgeous adventure with local co-op assist play | 9/10 |
| Rocket League | PS5, more | Sports | Split-screen car soccer that is instantly fun | 9/10 |
| LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga | PS5, more | Action Adventure | Family-friendly drop-in co-op across the saga | 8/10 |
| Streets of Rage 4 | PS5, more | Beat ’em Up | Classic side-scrolling brawling with a friend | 8/10 |
It Takes Two is the definitive co-op experience
It Takes Two is built from the ground up for two players and cannot be played alone. Its inventive levels constantly introduce fresh mechanics, keeping both players engaged from start to finish. The DualSense haptics add tactile flair to every set piece, and a second ergonomic gaming controller ensures both players stay comfortable through the lengthy adventure.
Party chaos that tests friendships
Overcooked and Moving Out 2 turn simple tasks into hilarious tests of communication. Plating dishes or hauling furniture becomes chaotic fun as you shout instructions and dodge each other. These fast, frantic games are more enjoyable on a large screen, so a big gaming TV or monitor gives both players a clear view of the mayhem.
Creative and relaxed co-op
Minecraft split-screen lets pairs build, explore, and survive together at their own pace, making it perfect for relaxed evenings. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga offers drop-in, drop-out family co-op across the entire film saga. Long, cozy sessions feel better in a supportive gaming chair that keeps you comfortable for hours.
Action and adventure for two
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart dazzles with its visuals and offers assist options for a second player, while Streets of Rage 4 revives classic beat ’em up brawling. These action titles benefit from crisp audio cues, so a shared gaming soundbar or headset makes every hit and explosion land with impact.
Instant pick-up-and-play fun
Rocket League is the ultimate quick co-op fix, blending soccer and rocket cars into matches anyone can grasp instantly. Its short rounds make it ideal for filling spare time. Precise inputs matter for those spectacular aerial goals, and a well-maintained pro gaming controller with responsive triggers gives you the edge.
Choosing the right co-op game for your duo
For a full narrative journey, nothing beats It Takes Two. Craving laughs? Overcooked and Moving Out 2 deliver. Want relaxed creativity? Minecraft and LEGO Star Wars fit perfectly. The best local co-op games PS5 offers cover every mood, so you and your partner can always find the right shared adventure.
Setting up for the best co-op nights
Charge both controllers ahead of time, pick a game suited to both players’ skill levels, and settle in for the session. Many of these titles support drop-in play, letting a second player join anytime. With minimal setup, your PS5 becomes a fantastic hub for memorable side-by-side gaming.
Frequently Asked Questions about the best local co-op games PS5
What is the best local co-op game on PS5?
It Takes Two is widely considered the best local co-op game on PS5 because it is designed exclusively for two players and constantly reinvents its gameplay. Every level introduces new cooperative mechanics, keeping both players fully involved. Its creativity and polish make it the standout recommendation for anyone seeking couch co-op excellence.
Do I need two controllers for local co-op on PS5?
Yes, local co-op requires a second DualSense controller so both players can participate. The PS5 includes one controller, so you will need to add another for two-player games. Once you have a spare controller charged, a huge range of the best local co-op games PS5 offers becomes available for shared play.
Are there family-friendly local co-op games on PS5?
Absolutely. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga and Minecraft are excellent family-friendly co-op choices, offering accessible drop-in gameplay suitable for all ages. Overcooked is also great for families who enjoy lighthearted chaos. These titles let parents and children play together comfortably, making them ideal picks for family game nights on PS5.
Can two players share one screen on PS5?
Yes, many of the best local co-op games PS5 offers use split-screen or shared-screen play so two people can game on a single console and television. It Takes Two, Minecraft, and Rocket League all support this. No second console or extra copies are needed, making couch co-op simple and affordable.
Ready to decide? Our #1 pick for 2026 is the It Takes Two.
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