Best Platform Games Designed Around Co-Op

As a seasoned gamer who’s been around since the days of 8-bit, I can confidently say that co-op platformers have truly evolved into a delightful gaming genre. From the quirky humor of Guacamelee 2 to the heartwarming charm of Unravel 2, there’s something for every taste.

Initially, platformer video games were celebrated as exceptional solo experiences. Today, though, these platformers have transformed into a source of engaging cooperative gameplay that multiplayer titles offer.

Instead of playing games individually, you might find it more enjoyable to delve into a variety of cooperative platformers designed for two players. These range from fun games meant to bring couples closer together, to challenging puzzle games with a quirky sense of humor.

7 Guacamelee 2

The Lucha Way

When Guacamelee! first came out, it was highly praised for its exceptional recreation of classic Metroidvania platformers and unique artistic flair. Given this acclaim, fans eagerly anticipated the development of the series with the second installment, which promised cooperative gameplay throughout the entire adventure.

Sadly, Guacamelee 2 didn’t receive the broad acclaim and recognition it truly merited. Any gaming enthusiast searching for an underrated cooperative Metroidvania-style platformer should definitely give a shot to Guacamelee 2, appreciating its quirky and dark humor, as well as its meaty, gratifying combat that infuses every moment of its cooperative gameplay.

6 Unravel 2

Threaded Together

Initially, “Unravel” was adored for its captivating artwork and unique yarn protagonist who could maneuver through straightforward yet endearing platforming stages by manipulating their stringy form. The sequel, “Unravel 2”, further developed these elements, resulting in an even more enjoyable gaming experience.

Although often overlooked, “Unravel 2” stands out as one of the top cooperative puzzle platformers currently offered. It builds upon the intricacy, appeal, and challenge of the first game by weaving a cooperative mindset throughout everything. If you’re looking for a more laid-back cooperative experience with a partner, “Unravel 2” is an excellent choice.

5 Rayman Legends

Hoodlums In The House

Over the years, Rayman, one of the longest-surviving franchises, has undergone numerous transformations. It initially started as a classic 2D platform game, later evolved into 3D action, and most recently, it reverted to a beloved 2D platform style in the popular game Rayman Legends.

Players take on the role of Rayman, along with a variety of companions, navigating through an assortment of imaginative and interactive platforming stages in Rayman Legends. The intricate design of these levels is one of the game’s standout features, often earning it recognition as the best title in the series. What makes it even more appealing is its robust multiplayer support that allows for cooperative play.

4 LittleBigPlanet 3

Sackboy Sets Forth

Despite the fact that the popular “LittleBigPlanet” series appears to have reached its end, it’s important to recall the immense popularity these games enjoyed and the excellent family-oriented platforming experience they provided, complete with an extensive and powerful customization toolkit.

I’m bummed out to share that the servers for LittleBigPlanet 3, the game that stirred up quite a bit of conversation but offered an unparalleled gaming experience in the series, have been shut down lately. This means that online multiplayer is no longer an option and the game itself is being removed from the store. However, if you still have the chance to play it on the couch with friends, LittleBigPlanet 3 remains a delightful and endearing adventure featuring Sackboy and his pals.

3 Super Mario 3D World

The Mushroom Kingdom Needs Compatriots

During the time of the Wii U, Nintendo was facing difficulties and urgently needed a significant success. In essence, that success arrived with “Super Mario 3D World“, a strong comeback for the struggling console that offered a classic (and one of the most challenging) addition to the beloved franchise.

Despite being eclipsed by the release of Odyssey a few years afterward, Super Mario 3D World remains an exceptional choice for those seeking a classic Mario gaming experience with friends. It’s definitely worth the effort to find and play it.

2 It Takes Two

Marriage Is A Co-Op Experience

In terms of fully leveraging collaborative gameplay, few studios excel like Hazelight Studios. Their latest release, It Takes Two! , continues a line of exceptional cooperative-focused games, where the essence of playing together significantly shapes the underlying mechanics.

In the game titled “It Takes Two!“, players assume the roles of a married couple on the verge of divorce. After being transformed magically into dolls, they must cooperate to restore their human forms while revealing the game’s hidden mysteries along the way. This engaging co-op game is filled with emotion and heart, and it excels in both platforming challenges and delivering a delightful experience for seasoned gamers and newcomers alike.

1 Cuphead

Cartoon Chums

Certain cooperative games are designed for leisurely enjoyment with companions, while others, such as Cuphead, serve to test the depths of your friendships to their utmost extremes. Known for its notorious challenge level, the difficulty in Cuphead takes on a fresh perspective when played cooperatively.

In cooperative play, both the bosses and arenas remain consistent; however, lives are now shared between the two players. Consequently, each player must perform exceptionally well to ensure mutual survival. This shared responsibility leads to a thrilling platforming adventure that outshines other games on this list, positioning it as one of the top co-op platforming games currently available.

2024-11-07 09:34