Top Multiplayer Games for Consoles: Best of the Best

Imagine a world where gaming is more than just playing alone. It's about sharing adventures with others. Get ready to explore the best multiplayer games on consoles. These games create strong friendships and bring out the true spirit of gaming.

Discover the games that have changed multiplayer gaming. They offer smooth co-op play, exciting competition, and the joy of playing together.

Key Takeaways

• Explore a diverse range of multiplayer experiences, from intense online shooters to cozy local co-op adventures.
• Discover games that foster meaningful social connections and shared experiences, whether playing with close friends or connecting with a global community.
• Immerse yourself in the tactical thrills of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, the party game mayhem of Jackbox, and everything in between.
• Prepare for competitive showdowns, cooperative quests, and pure gaming fun that will keep you coming back for more.
• Dive into the ultimate multiplayer delights that every console gamer should experience.

Looking for a¹ thrilling battle royale or a² fun split-screen racing game? Our list has it all. From the strategic Dota 2¹ to the cooperative It Takes Two, each game offers a unique multiplayer experience.

Experience the action-packed Halo Infinite¹ or the¹ magical world of Diablo III with friends. Together, you can conquer challenges and find epic loot. The bond you create is truly priceless.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your friends, turn on your consoles, and start your multiplayer journey. The future of gaming is here, filled with shared moments and endless possibilities. Discover the games that will change how you see gaming.

The Timeless Allure of Multiplayer Gaming

In the world of video games, multiplayer experiences are always in style³. Some gamers prefer to play alone, but many find their best moments with others. Multiplayer modes make games more fun, letting players hang out with friends or meet new people online³.

The Joys of Shared Experiences

Multiplayer gaming creates strong social bonds, healthy competition, and a sense of community⁴. Players can either compete or work together, adding a special excitement that solo games can't match⁴.

Working together, feeling the rush of victory, and sharing in wins and losses are what make multiplayer games so appealing³. This social side of gaming builds friendships and deepens our love for gaming³.

Today, gaming lets us connect with others in a unique way⁴. Multiplayer games break down barriers, creating communities that enjoy playing together⁴.

From old-school co-op to modern online games, multiplayer gaming keeps evolving⁵. It offers new ways for players to meet and make lasting memories⁵³⁴.

Our Curated List of Multiplayer Masterpieces

Console gaming is evolving fast, making multiplayer experiences more immersive than ever. Our list highlights the best multiplayer games for console players⁶. Prices range from $9.94 to $59.99, with discounts from 15% to 40%⁶. There's something for every genre, from action to strategy⁶.

It Takes Two by Hazelight Studios is a top co-op game, praised for its thrilling journey⁷. A Way Out offers a co-op experience for adults, full of emotional twists⁷. Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake also shines in co-op, originally a single-player game⁷.

For local multiplayer, try Human Fall Flat, Moving Out 1 & 2, Kirby and the Forgotten Land, and Super Mario Bros. Wonder. These games support 2 to 6 players, making them perfect for fun times with friends⁷. They also have features like invincibility to make them accessible to everyone⁷.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge is great for up to 6-player co-op, fighting the Foot Clan together⁷.

Game	Multiplayer Modes	Platforms
It Takes Two	Co-op	PlayStation, Xbox, PC
A Way Out	Co-op	PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake	Co-op	PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Human Fall Flat	2-player local, 8-player online	PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC
Moving Out 1 & 2	4-player local, 4-player online	PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC
Kirby and the Forgotten Land	2-player local	Nintendo Switch
Super Mario Bros. Wonder	4-player local	Nintendo Switch
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge	6-player local, 6-player online	PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC

This list has games for every kind of multiplayer experience, from competitive to cooperative⁷. Remember to check your storage and internet for the best gaming experience⁸.

Among Us: A Social Experiment in Deception

In the world of multiplayer gaming, Among Us is a standout. It was launched in June 2018⁹. Players work together to fix a spaceship, but some are impostors trying to ruin the mission. This leads to a world full of lies and suspicion.

Players must figure out who to trust to stop the impostors. The game's popularity soared, with Among Us reaching half a billion monthly⁹. The game's creator, Innersloth, said red, black, and white are the top crewmate colors, while lime, brown, and green are the least liked⁹.

Among Us combines social interaction with strategic deception. It offers a thrilling experience that tests players' social skills and observation abilities. Among Us and similar games have made the social deduction genre more popular⁹. Players can feel the excitement of being a traitor or the joy of revealing the imposter.

The game's success shows how much people enjoy social deduction games. Mafia, a classic game, was made by Russian student Dimitry Davidoff in 1987¹⁰. These games create tension as players might be voted out by their friends⁹. Players have to use what little evidence they have to figure out who to trust⁹.

"Among Us creates social tension, as players can feel betrayed by friends when being voted out."

Among Us has opened new doors for social deduction games. Developers are finding new ways to engage players and build community trust. As the genre grows, players can expect more exciting and immersive social gaming experiences.

Apex Legends: The Battle Royale Apex

In the world of multiplayer shooter games, Apex Legends¹¹ shines as a top battle royale game. This free game, made by Respawn Entertainment and published by Electronic Arts, has won over gamers with its great movement and gunplay. It also brings a new twist to the battle royale style with its team-based gameplay¹².

Unparalleled Movement and Gunplay

Apex Legends is known for its amazing movement and combat. It has a wide range of playable characters, each with special abilities and personalities. This variety gives players many ways to play on the big battlefield¹³. From the quick Wraith to the tough Gibby, there's a Legend for every player's style¹³.

The game's smooth movement and sharp gunplay get a lot of praise. It makes for an exciting experience that raises the bar for multiplayer shooter games¹². Legends' special abilities let players use smart tactics, like zip-lining or phasing through enemies, during intense fights¹³.

"Apex Legends delivers an unrivaled battle royale experience, seamlessly blending strategic teamplay with electrifying combat."

Apex Legends keeps getting better with new Legends, special modes, and changing maps. This keeps the game exciting for both new and experienced players¹². It's a top choice for those who love competitive multiplayer games¹³.

Apex Legends is a leader in the battle royale world thanks to its constant innovation and focus on a great multiplayer experience. Its unmatched movement and gunplay, along with its varied Legends, make it the top battle royale game. It has won over gamers and become a key game for those who love multiplayer shooters¹¹¹²¹³.

Clubhouse Games: A Timeless Treasure Trove

In today's fast-paced gaming world, Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics for the Nintendo Switch is a breath of fresh air. It's filled with classic and modern games for multiplayer fun. With over 50 games, it has something for everyone.

Clubhouse Games has games like backgammon and bowling for fun with friends and family. You can play together in person or online¹⁴. The mosaic mode lets you connect up to four consoles for big games together¹⁴.

This game brings back the joy of classic gaming. Playing games like billiards or chess can bring people together. It's great for all ages and skill levels, sparking friendly competition.

For a break from fast-paced games, Clubhouse Games is perfect. It has many multiplayer games, both for playing together in person and online. It's great for players of all backgrounds and skills.

Feature	Description
Release Date	May 6, 202014
Game Selection	51 games to choose from14
Local Multiplayer	Supports up to four consoles connected via local communication14
Mosaic Mode	Allows connecting up to four consoles for a larger playing area14
Nintendo Switch Lite	Requires a Joy-Con pair for 15 games for single-system multiplayer14
Online Play	Internet connection and paid online membership required14
Controller Requirements	Multiplayer requires one compatible controller per player14
Account Requirements	Online services require creating a Nintendo Account14
Purchase Process	Purchases processed via Nintendo eShop14

Clubhouse Games also has modern games like 1-2-Switch and Dr Kawashima's Brain Training. Plus, Super Mario Party is great for parties with friends or family¹⁴.

"Clubhouse Games offers an extensive catalog of timeless multiplayer diversions, making it an essential addition to any console gamer's library."

Clubhouse Games reminds us of the joy in classic gaming. It's perfect for reliving old memories or sharing new ones with others. This collection of games is fun for all ages and skill levels.

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive: The Tactical Shooter Legacy

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is a giant in multiplayer shooter games, a pioneer in the tactical shooter genre. It has been thrilling gamers for over a decade¹⁵. Released in 2012 for Windows, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360, and later for Linux in 2014¹⁵, it now has about 11 million players every month¹⁵.

This game is known for its intense, team-focused gameplay. It has nine game modes, from Competitive to Deathmatch and Demolition¹⁵. This variety makes it appealing to many players¹⁵. Going free-to-play in 2018¹⁵ made it even more popular among competitive shooter fans.

Its focus on player-created content keeps the game exciting. The Steam Workshop lets players make custom maps and skins, keeping the game fresh¹⁵.

Even though it's getting old, Counter-Strike 2 is coming, using the Source 2 engine¹⁵. This will update the game and keep it alive¹⁵. It's a top choice for console gamers who want a challenge in competitive multiplayer games.

"Counter-Strike: Global Offensive offers a split between casual and competitive servers but lacks clear distinctions." - Rock Paper Shotgun

The game's shooting experience is top-notch¹⁶. It has five weapon categories and focuses on player skill and strategy¹⁵. The Competitive mode is perfect for serious players, adding strategy with longer matches and special items.

For console gamers, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is a must-play. It's a classic in tactical shooters, known for its deep gameplay, strong community, and commitment to excellence¹⁵¹⁶¹⁷.

Best Of Multiplayer Games On Consoles

Consoles Unleash the Ultimate Multiplayer Experiences

Console gaming is known for its amazing multiplayer games. These games offer a wide range for every type of player. You can find intense competitive shooters, cooperative adventures, and fun party games. Consoles bring the best in shared gaming fun¹⁸.

Looking for online battles, local co-op with friends, or cooperative quests? The best multiplayer games on consoles have it all. They're not just fun; they also build a strong sense of community. This makes them great for gamers who love playing with others¹⁹.

These games cover many genres, from racing and shooters to adventures and party games. They combine great graphics, smooth controls, and fun gameplay. This makes them stand out as top multiplayer games²⁰.

For gamers or those wanting to spend time with friends and family, these games are perfect. They offer a unique way to enjoy gaming together. From classic games to new ones, this list shows how consoles bring people together for memorable multiplayer moments¹⁸¹⁹²⁰.

Death Stranding: Unconventional Multiplayer Brilliance

In the world of console gaming, Death Stranding is a standout. It's an unconventional multiplayer game made by Hideo Kojima. This game has won players over with its unique way of working together online²¹.

It's not your typical cooperative game, but Death Stranding still brings players together. Players can leave items like ladders and supplies for others to find and use²². This way, players help each other out, even if they don't play together directly²².

People love the game's multiplayer for making everyone feel connected and proud of their work together²³. Players can work together to build roads, making the game world easier to navigate for everyone²². The game's soundtrack also adds to the feeling of community²².

Death Stranding's multiplayer is different, but many players enjoy it²³. The game has a great cast of actors, a gripping story, and fun gameplay²². These things make it stand out²².

For those looking for something new in multiplayer games, Death Stranding is a great choice²³. It shows how to connect players in a game that's mostly about solo adventures²².

Not everyone likes Death Stranding's unique style, but opinions are all over the place²³. Some critics love its fresh take, while others might find it slow or hard to get into²³. Still, Death Stranding's multiplayer is all about breaking the mold and offering a special experience²²²¹²³.

Destiny 2: The Looter-Shooter Masterpiece

In the world of online multiplayer games, Destiny 2 shines as the top looter-shooter game²⁴. Bungie, a well-known studio, created this game. It lets players join forces with friends to fight alien enemies. They use the studio's famous first-person shooter skills to find the best guns and armor²⁴.

The game is free to play and gets regular updates, giving players many reasons to come back and improve their skills. Its loot system and easy multiplayer make it a top choice for console gamers looking for fun with others.

Gather the Shiniest Guns and Armor

Destiny 2's loot system is what keeps players coming back for more²⁴. Whether you're working with friends on tough missions or competing against others, the game offers a wide range of weapons and ways to customize your character²⁴.

• Explore a vast, connected world filled with alien threats and legendary loot
• Coordinate with your fireteam to devise strategic approaches and vanquish formidable foes
• Collect a diverse array of guns, armor, and abilities to tailor your playstyle to perfection
• Engage in thrilling PvP combat against other players, testing your skills and honing your tactics

Destiny 2 blends cooperative and competitive multiplayer smoothly, so everyone can find something they like and join the community. It's great for both experienced gamers and new ones, offering fun and engaging gameplay that keeps you wanting more.

Game Title	Release Date	Developer
Destiny 2	October 24, 2017	Bungie

"Destiny 2 is the ultimate looter-shooter experience, with endless hours of engaging cooperative and competitive gameplay."

Whether you want a thrilling adventure or a competitive challenge, Destiny 2 is a top choice. It offers endless fun and will keep you playing for hours²⁴.

Valorant

In the world of multiplayer shooter games, Valorant shines brightly. It's made by Riot Games, a well-known studio. This tactical shooter has won over gamers with its exciting, character-focused gameplay²⁵. It mixes the strategy of Counter-Strike with Overwatch's unique agents, offering a one-of-a-kind multiplayer experience²⁵.

At its heart, Valorant is a 5v5 first-person shooter where teams of five face off²⁶. Players pick from a wide range of agents, each with special abilities and ways of playing²⁶. This mix of sharp shooting, teamwork, and clever use of abilities makes for an engaging game set in stunning environments.

Console gamers have been waiting for Valorant, and Riot Games made sure it's just as good as the PC version. Valorant's Focus Mode is a big deal, offering a control scheme that feels like a mouse and keyboard²⁷. There's also an option for traditional ADS (Aim Down Sights) for a shooter feel that's more familiar to console players²⁷.

Even though the console version of Valorant doesn't play with the PC version, it still focuses on teamwork and strategy²⁷. Light aim assist makes it easier for console players, making Valorant both tough and welcoming²⁷.

For console gamers looking for a competitive, team-based multiplayer shooter, Valorant is a top choice. It combines agent abilities, precise gunplay, and strategic gameplay, making it a top pick for console gamers²⁵.

"Valorant's Focus Mode blends PC and console gameplay, offering a familiar experience for all players."

Diablo III: The Loot-Hungry Action-RPG Titan

For fans of the iconic Diablo franchise, the 2012 release of Diablo III was a big deal. It scored an 88 on Metascore, making it a top action-RPG. Players loved its loot system and playing with friends²⁸.

The Diablo series is known for great cooperative play. Diablo III let friends team up to fight evil together. Players could customize their characters and work as a team²⁹.

The game's console version made multiplayer even better. It had offline play, system link support, and customizable matchmaking for console players²⁹. With up to four players, Diablo III on consoles was perfect for those who love cooperative adventures.

Even with a tough start, Diablo III has become a classic. The Reaper of Souls expansion helped, scoring an 87 on Metascore²⁸. It's a top pick for action-RPG fans on consoles²⁹. With lots of character options, easy multiplayer, and endless loot, Diablo III keeps players coming back for more.

With Diablo IV coming soon, Diablo III is still a top choice for action-RPG fans. For console gamers who love playing with friends and finding loot, Diablo III is a must-play²⁸²⁹.

"Diablo III remains a Hell of a good time for console gamers seeking a classic, cooperative, loot-driven RPG experience."

Conclusion

The world of multiplayer gaming on consoles is always changing, offering endless fun for players. From tactical shooters to new adventures, this list highlights the best in multiplayer console games³⁰.

If you love fast-paced competitive multiplayer, or just want to play with friends, these games are perfect. As technology gets better, we'll see more ways to connect and play together³⁰.

The online gaming market is growing fast, expected to hit $132 billion by 2030³⁰. With more players and better technology, the future of multiplayer gaming looks bright. Developers are working hard to make games that are more fun and engaging for everyone³¹³².

FAQ

What are the best multiplayer video games for consoles?

The top multiplayer games on consoles offer a mix of intense action and cozy co-op adventures. They provide endless fun and help players connect with others, whether with friends or a global community.

Why are multiplayer games so appealing on consoles?

Multiplayer games make gaming endless and fun, whether with friends or online. They create strong social bonds, healthy competition, and a sense of community among players.

What factors should I consider when selecting multiplayer games for consoles?

When picking multiplayer games, think about storage and internet speed. These affect the game's quality. Also, choose games that offer different play styles, from competitive to cooperative and party games.

What makes Among Us a standout multiplayer experience?

Among Us mixes social play with strategic deception. Players work together to find impostors, adding a layer of trust and suspense. This makes the game thrilling and unpredictable.

Why is Apex Legends considered the best battle royale game on consoles?

Apex Legends shines with smooth movement, great gunplay, and team chat tools. Its diverse characters add strategy to the game, making it a top choice for battle royale fans.

What makes Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics a must-have for console gamers?

Clubhouse Games brings over 50 classic board and tabletop games to the Nintendo Switch. It lets players enjoy timeless fun with friends, both online and locally, offering a wide range of games.

Why is Counter-Strike: Global Offensive a must-play for console gamers seeking a tactical shooter experience?

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is a classic shooter with a huge community. It offers intense matches and is free to play, making it great for those who love competitive games.

What makes console gaming the ultimate destination for diverse multiplayer experiences?

Consoles have a wide range of multiplayer games, from competitive to cooperative and fun games. Players can pick games that fit their style, whether it's intense action or collaborative adventures.

How does Death Stranding's innovative approach to multiplayer create a unique sense of shared experience?

Death Stranding lets players leave items for others to find, creating a shared experience. This system builds a community among players, even if they don't play together directly.

What makes Destiny 2 a must-play experience for console gamers seeking an engaging shared adventure?

Destiny 2 is a top looter-shooter with a strong multiplayer focus. Players can team up to fight aliens and collect the best gear. Its free model and updates keep players coming back for more.

Why is Valorant a standout multiplayer tactical shooter for console gamers?

Valorant is a tactical shooter where teams of five face off. Each character has special abilities, making strategy key to winning. It's a top choice for those who love team play and tactical skills.

What makes Diablo III a must-play action-RPG for console gamers?

Diablo III is a top action-RPG for loot lovers. Players can customize their characters and team up for dungeon adventures. It offers a classic RPG experience with endless loot and character options.

Source Links

1. The Best Multiplayer Video Games for 2024 - https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-multiplayer-video-games
2. Best Split-Screen Multiplayer Games For The Xbox Series X|S - https://www.thegamer.com/best-split-screen-multiplayer-games-xbox-series-x-s/
3. Arcade Games and Nostalgia: What Keeps Us Playing? - Wintrust Sports Complex - https://wintrustsportscomplex.com/arcade-games-and-nostalgia-what-keeps-us-playing/
4. Gaming Wars For Dominance - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/gaming-wars-dominance-anjal-agrawal-ktnjc
5. Nostalgia Unleashed: The Retro Game Console — A 10,000+ Game Powerhouse - https://medium.com/@tatenshort/nostalgia-unleashed-the-retro-game-console-a-10-000-game-powerhouse-39d030551bbc
6. Steam Curator: Gaming Masterpieces - https://store.steampowered.com/curator/34633003-Gaming-Masterpieces/
7. The Best Co-Op Games To Play After Beating It Takes Two - https://gamerant.com/co-op-games-to-play-after-it-takes-two/
8. Best simulation games on PS4 and PS5 - https://www.playstation.com/en-gb/editorial/best-simulation-games-on-ps4-and-ps5/
9. The Science of Why Your Friends Shot You From an Airlock - https://www.wired.com/story/among-us-social-deduction-games-psychology/
10. From Mafia to Among Us: Can social deduction evolve as online multiplayer? - https://www.gamedeveloper.com/design/from-mafia-to-among-us-can-social-deduction-evolve-as-online-multiplayer-
11. Apex Legends - The Next Evolution of Hero Shooter - Free to Play - https://www.ea.com/games/apex-legends
12. Apex Legends | Xbox - https://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/apex-legends
13. Apex Legends - PS4 & PS5 Games | PlayStation - https://www.playstation.com/en-us/games/apex-legends/
14. Explore a world of classic tabletop games! - https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Games/Nintendo-Switch-games/51-Worldwide-Games-1748086.html
15. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Counter-Strike:_Global_Offensive
16. Counter-Strike Global Offensive Review - https://www.343industries.org/forum/news/other-articles/counter-strike-global-offensive-review-r138/
17. Wot I Think - Counter-Strike: Global Offensive - https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/csgo-review
18. The best couch multiplayer games on PS4 - Guides & Editorial | PlayStation - https://www.playstation.com/en-us/editorial/local-ps4-multiplayer-games/
19. The best multiplayer games on console 2024 - https://www.theloadout.com/best-multiplayer-games
20. Best Multiplayer Video Games To Play in 2024 - https://www.rollingstone.com/product-recommendations/electronics/best-multiplayer-video-games-to-buy-online-1234999382/
21. Hideo Kojima’s Strange, Unforgettable Video-Game Worlds (Published 2020) - https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/03/magazine/hideo-kojima-death-stranding-video-game.html
22. Reddit - Dive into anything - https://www.reddit.com/r/PlayStationPlus/comments/wqewfd/death_stranding_recommending/
23. Death Stranding review round-up: Critics divided on Kojima’s epic | VGC - https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/death-stranding-review-round-up-critics-divided-on-kojimas-epic/
24. 28 Best Split Screen Games on Xbox One & Series X/S (2024) - G2A News - https://www.g2a.com/news/features/best-split-screen-xbox-one-games/
25. Games To Play If You Love Valorant - https://gamerant.com/games-like-valorant-similar/
26. Ten Games You'll Love If You Like Playing Valorant - https://powder.gg/blog/ten-games-youll-love-if-you-like-playing-valorant/
27. This One Feature Makes Valorant Great On Console - https://www.kotaku.com.au/2024/06/this-one-feature-makes-valorant-great-on-console/
28. Every Diablo Game, Ranked - https://gamerant.com/best-diablo-games/
29. Diablo 3 console review - https://www.eurogamer.net/diablo-3-console-review
30. The Rise of Online Multiplayer - Gameopedia - https://www.gameopedia.com/online-multiplayer-games/
31. Multiplayer Games: Pitfalls and Solutions - https://www.argentics.io/multiplayer-games-pitfalls-and-solutions
32. Best Multiplayer Video Games - https://www.customcontrollers.com/blogs/news/best-multiplayer-video-games-to-play