The PlayStation 5 has an outstanding lineup of multiplayer titles, and picking the best PS5 multiplayer games in 2026 means covering everything from competitive shooters to cooperative adventures. Whether you want to team up with friends online or share the couch locally, the console delivers experiences for every kind of player. This guide highlights the standout multiplayer games worth your time.
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Below is a quick comparison of eight of the best PS5 multiplayer games, followed by a closer look at each. Multiplayer performance benefits from good gear, so we link to several hardware buying guides throughout.
| Game | Platform | Genre | Why It’s Great | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helldivers 2 | PS5 / PC | Co-op shooter | Chaotic four-player squad combat | 9.4/10 |
| Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III | PS5 / Multi | FPS | Polished competitive multiplayer | 8.8/10 |
| It Takes Two | PS5 / Multi | Co-op adventure | Designed entirely for two players | 9.7/10 |
| Rocket League | PS5 / Multi | Sports | Car soccer with endless depth | 9.2/10 |
| Fortnite | PS5 / Multi | Battle royale | Constantly evolving free-to-play | 9.0/10 |
| Overwatch 2 | PS5 / Multi | Hero shooter | Team-based objective combat | 8.7/10 |
| Marvel Rivals | PS5 / Multi | Hero shooter | Fresh superhero team battles | 8.9/10 |
| Sea of Thieves | PS5 / Multi | Co-op adventure | Shared pirate voyages | 8.6/10 |
Quick answer: For most people in 2026, the best ps5 multiplayer games (2026) is the Helldivers 2 — our #1 rated choice. See the full ranked comparison, alternatives and buying advice below.
How we ranked the best PS5 multiplayer games in 2026
We assessed each game on cooperative and competitive quality, matchmaking, long-term support, and how enjoyable they are with friends. The best PS5 multiplayer games keep players coming back through fresh content and satisfying teamwork. Online play rewards low latency and sharp visuals, so our best gaming monitor buying guide can help competitive players gain an edge.
Helldivers 2: the best PS5 multiplayer game for co-op chaos
Helldivers 2 drops four players into frantic missions against alien hordes, where friendly fire and stratagem coordination create hilarious, tense moments. The satisfying gunplay and constant sense of galactic war make every drop exciting. Its live-service events keep the community engaged. For clear team communication, our best gaming headset buying guide covers headsets with reliable mics.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III: competitive shooter staple
Modern Warfare III delivers the polished, fast-paced multiplayer that has defined the franchise for years. Tight gunplay, a deep progression system, and a steady stream of maps keep players invested. Whether you prefer objective modes or classic team deathmatch, it offers something for every shooter fan. Precise aiming matters, and our best gaming controller buying guide highlights controllers built for competitive edge.
It Takes Two: cooperative storytelling at its finest
It Takes Two is a two-player-only adventure that constantly reinvents its mechanics as the story progresses. From flying to time travel, every chapter introduces new cooperative challenges. It is one of the most creative multiplayer games on the PS5 and a must-play for any pair. The tight teamwork it demands makes finishing it deeply satisfying.
Rocket League: endless competitive depth
Rocket League combines soccer with rocket-powered cars for a concept that is easy to grasp but hard to master. Its skill ceiling is enormous, rewarding practice with spectacular aerial plays. Cross-platform play keeps matches populated at all hours. Long ranked sessions call for comfort, and our best gaming chair buying guide can help you stay focused during marathon matches.
Fortnite: the ever-evolving battle royale
Fortnite remains a cultural juggernaut thanks to its constant updates, crossover events, and building mechanics that set it apart from rivals. The free-to-play model welcomes newcomers, while the competitive scene rewards mastery. Squad play with friends is where it truly shines. Its regular seasons ensure there is always something new to experience.
Overwatch 2: team-based hero action
Overwatch 2 emphasizes coordinated team play across a diverse roster of heroes with unique abilities. Success depends on communication and composition rather than raw reflexes alone. Objective-based modes create dynamic, back-and-forth matches. It remains one of the most approachable yet strategically deep hero shooters available on the PS5.
Marvel Rivals: fresh superhero battles
Marvel Rivals brings iconic Marvel characters into team-based hero shooter combat with destructible environments and dynamic abilities. The recognizable roster and strategic team-ups give it a distinct identity. Its fast growth reflects strong fundamentals and enthusiastic support. Fans of hero shooters looking for something new will find plenty to love in its energetic matches.
Sea of Thieves: shared pirate adventures
Sea of Thieves lets you and your crew sail the seas, hunt treasure, and battle rival players in an open shared world. Coordinating sails, cannons, and navigation creates memorable emergent moments. Its relaxed yet unpredictable nature makes every voyage unique. For PC players who also game across platforms, our best gaming PC buying guide covers systems that handle cross-play smoothly.
Optimizing your PS5 multiplayer setup
Getting the most from online play means minimizing lag and maximizing responsiveness. A wired connection, a quality controller, and a fast display all contribute to better performance. Large multiplayer titles also consume significant storage, so our best gaming SSD buying guide explains how to expand your PS5’s capacity for a growing library of games.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best PS5 multiplayer game in 2026?
Helldivers 2 stands out as one of the best PS5 multiplayer games thanks to its chaotic four-player co-op, satisfying gunplay, and ongoing live-service support. Its blend of teamwork, humor, and intense action makes it a favorite for players who enjoy cooperative experiences with friends.
Do PS5 multiplayer games require PlayStation Plus?
Most online multiplayer games on PS5 require a PlayStation Plus subscription to play with others over the internet. However, some free-to-play titles like Fortnite and Rocket League let you play online without a subscription, making them accessible entry points for multiplayer gaming.
Can you play PS5 multiplayer games with PC players?
Yes, many of the best PS5 multiplayer games support cross-platform play with PC and other consoles. Titles such as Rocket League, Fortnite, Helldivers 2, and Sea of Thieves let you team up or compete with friends regardless of the hardware they own.
Are there good local multiplayer games on PS5?
Absolutely, the PS5 offers strong local multiplayer options. It Takes Two supports two-player couch co-op, while Rocket League and Overwatch 2 include local or split-screen features in certain modes. These games make it easy to enjoy shared gaming sessions without needing separate consoles.
Ready to decide? Our #1 pick for 2026 is the Helldivers 2.
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