10. Minecraft
Love it or hate it, there’s no denying Minecraft is one of the most iconic titles of modern gaming – and with the console versions of the game offering split-screen mode, the immense freedom and creativity of the game does allow for some good multiplayer fun with your friends. The possibilities in the game are endless and all the more entertaining to explore with a few mates by your side. And for all the haters, hey, it’s better than Fortnite at least.
9. Call of Duty: Black Ops 4
It wouldn’t be a local multiplayer gaming list without a space for Call of Duty’s zombie mode, which is at its best in Black Ops 4. Here, it is a showcase of what the hugely popular game-mode is capable of thanks to great maps, improved mechanics and stunning visuals. With the addition of a tutorial for new players and a wealth of customisation options, this is an easy game to introduce friends to on a gaming night and see how long you can survive against hordes of the undead. Great, blood-thirsty fun for all.
8. Star Wars Battlefront II
Despite a rocky beginning filled with micro-transactions and controversy, Star Wars Battlefront II has since found a new life as a great multiplayer romp. Particularly fun is the highly customisable Arcade mode, allowing the player to create their Star Wars fantasy. With 2-player split-screen functionality, there are heaps of freedom and fun to be had here. Yoda and Chewbacca teaming up against an onslaught of imperial droids in Jabba’s Palace? Why not.
7. Rayman Legends
Rayman Legends is nothing short of wonderful. This charmingly beautiful old-school platformer romp is a love letter to the genre and simply oozes passion, and is certainly at its best when enjoyed with a friend. Deceptively simple, the game is a fun, stress-free experience and the addition of mini-games including the addictive Kung Foot makes for a fun night in. There’s a reason Rayman is one of the most beloved franchises!
6. LEGO Marvel Superheroes 2
Honestly, any LEGO game could go in this slot and deserve the inclusion in this list. The wonderfully colourful and tongue-in-cheek adventures have become a multiplayer staple and for good reason – they’re just endlessly fun and ridiculously entertaining adventures. Packed with collectables, unlockable characters and Easter eggs to find, there is hours of fun to be had with every entry in this acclaimed series of games from the Danish toy manufacturer.
5. Halo: Master Chief Collection
Halo has always been one of the first games I’ve thought about when I’ve thought about local multiplayer, so it’s a no brainer that this stunning release should be in the top 5. Packed with hours of content thanks to including the first four games in the saga, there is a huge wealth of entertainment housed within the Master Chief Collection. From the unforgettable campaigns to explosive firefights in matchmaking, there’s no shortage of sci-fi fun to be shared here with a friend.
4. Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate
This definitive version of the acclaimed Mortal Kombat 11 is absolutely packed with beat-’em-up fun, combining two robust story campaigns from MK11 and MK11 Aftermath, the complete 37-character roster with unprecedented customisation, and all modes and stages. Mortal Kombat really doesn’t get any better than this. A phenomenally generous package that will keep you punchin’ and kickin’ all night long.
3. Gang Beasts
An absolute masterpiece of multiplayer mayhem, Gang Beasts puts players in control of colourful pugnacious thugs as you kick, punch and throw your enemies off rooftops, into oncoming traffic, and into incinerators. Diverse, dynamic maps and customisable characters make for a ridiculously fun and mindless gaming experience that truly is the only game of its kind. Just delightful.
2. Overcooked 2
Expanding on what made the first entry such a treat, Overcooked 2 throws the player back in the kitchen for more culinary carnage. This is a game where teamwork isn’t just an option, it is absolutely essential. Passing each chaotic level and getting orders out on time relies on strong cooperation and with new kitchens and abilities – teleportation and ingredient throwing, among others – Overcooked 2 is a masterpiece of multiplayer madness. Unmissable!
1. A Way Out
This multiplayer-only experience is designed and structured entirely as a cooperative experience and the result is one of the most immersive, engrossing and cinematic gaming experiences of the decade. Two players are put in control of a pair of prisoners embarking on a high-stakes prison break, and the result is one of the most compelling and intense titles on the console. A Way Out is an innovative title that will remind you why you love video games.