Sometimes all you want is a quiet, solo session with your favorite game. But gaming is often at its best when shared—whether it’s a chaotic party game with friends on the couch or a tense battle royale showdown with strangers halfway across the globe. Multiplayer games bring people together, fostering competition, cooperation, and unforgettable memories.
In 2025, the list of must-play multiplayer games is bigger and better than ever, ranging from casual puzzle titles to intense strategy esports. Here are the best multiplayer video games you and your friends should be playing right now.
Battle Royales, Shooters, and Competitive Chaos
Few genres thrive as much in the multiplayer space as competitive shooters and battle royales. Leading the charge is Apex Legends, Respawn’s fast-paced and tactically rich battle royale. With smooth movement, squad-based gameplay, and diverse character abilities, it remains a fan favorite—and it’s completely free.
Another juggernaut, Fortnite, continues to dominate with its ever-evolving game world and collaborations with brands and celebrities. Whether you’re building, shooting, or just hanging out at in-game concerts, Fortnite offers a social playground like no other.
Classics like Counter-Strike 2 and Halo Infinite keep the traditional shooter experience alive, boasting tight gunplay, iconic maps, and massive online communities. Meanwhile, newer titles like Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8 carry the torch for fighting games, with competitive multiplayer that’s both flashy and precise—ideal for players who want to test their reflexes and tactical depth.
Cooperative Adventures and Couch Co-Op Fun
Multiplayer isn’t just about going head-to-head—it’s also about working together. Few games capture that spirit like It Takes Two, a whimsical and heartfelt co-op game designed entirely around two players navigating a crumbling relationship through imaginative, puzzle-filled worlds. It’s emotional, creative, and packed with surprises.
Monster Hunter Rise and Diablo IV offer action-heavy, loot-filled experiences for squads looking to grind gear and take down giant enemies. These titles reward teamwork, communication, and build synergy in deeply satisfying ways.
For something more laid-back, the Jackbox Party Pack series delivers endless laughs and party game brilliance. Everyone joins in using just their phones, making it a staple for game nights and streams alike. Similarly, Clubhouse Games brings over 50 timeless classics like chess, backgammon, and bowling under one virtual roof—perfect for casual competition with friends or family.
Multiplayer for Every Kind of Player
Multiplayer gaming today spans genres far beyond just shooters or brawlers. Strategy lovers still flock to StarCraft II, a high-skill RTS that remains unmatched in depth. MOBA enthusiasts have Dota 2 and League of Legends, each with massive communities, pro scenes, and ever-evolving rosters of heroes.
If you’re more into creative expression, Minecraft enables cooperative building and adventuring in endlessly customizable worlds. Want something retro? Streets of Rage 4 revives the classic beat ‘em up format with local and online co-op.
Even narrative-driven games like Death Stranding and Tetris Effect: Connected find innovative ways to integrate multiplayer. In Death Stranding, player interactions are asynchronous—leaving tools and supplies behind to aid fellow travelers. Tetris Effect allows synchronized puzzle-solving that transforms solo play into a collaborative, almost spiritual experience.
Why Multiplayer Games Matter in 2025
As more games adopt cross-platform functionality, improved netcode, and live service updates, multiplayer gaming is no longer just an added bonus—it’s often the main attraction. Whether you’re looking to climb ranked ladders, bond over couch co-op, or just unwind with friends in a digital space, there’s never been a better time to jump in.
So pick your poison: shoot, build, brawl, strategize, or simply vibe. With so many multiplayer experiences across genres, platforms, and playstyles, one thing is clear—games are just more fun when shared.
Recommended:
- Best Xbox Series X Games in 2025
- Top Nintendo Switch Multiplayer Titles
- Best PS5 Games for Online and Local Co-op
Ready to play? Grab a friend—or a few—and dive into the best multiplayer games the industry has to offer right now.
