Hey everyone! So, you’ve probably played It Takes Two, right? That game about the divorcing couple turned into dolls was a total blast back in 2021, and honestly, its constantly evolving gameplay totally stole the show. But let’s be real—while the story hit deep, it could get a bit heavy sometimes. Ever finish a co-op session feeling like you need a hug more than a high-five? Me too! That got me thinking: what other co-op games out there deliver those amazing ‘we did it together!’ moments but maybe with a different emotional vibe? Let’s dive into some fantastic alternatives that have stood the test of time and are still absolutely worth playing in 2026.

First up, we gotta talk about A Way Out. This was Hazelight’s first big co-op game before they made It Takes Two. You start as Leo and Vincent, two guys breaking out of prison, and the adrenaline just doesn’t let up. Sure, the co-op mechanics might not be as wildly inventive as their later game, but man, that story? It’s darker, more mature, and that third-act twist… let’s just say you’ll be texting your co-op buddy about it for weeks. It’s a ride that proves co-op isn’t just about fun puzzles—it can be about raw, gripping drama too.

Now, how about a classic that got a shiny new co-op makeover? I’m talking about Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons. Originally a single-player masterpiece from 2013 where you controlled two brothers with one controller (talk about a brain workout!), the 2024 remake finally let you and a friend take one brother each. The magic of this game is its storytelling—not a single real word is spoken, yet you feel every moment of hope, fear, and love. Whether you play solo for that unique challenge or team up, it’s an emotional journey that’ll stick with you. It’s the perfect proof that sometimes, actions really do speak louder than words.

Feeling like some family bonding… with monsters? Children of Morta is your go-to. This roguelike follows the Bergson family, a bunch of heroes fighting an ancient evil beneath their home. You can play as different family members like the sturdy dad John or the agile daughter Linda. The cool part? A narrator sets the scene and hits those emotional beats while you and your partner are busy smacking down dungeon creatures together. It’s like having an epic bedtime story come to life where you get to be the heroes. 🧙‍♂️⚔️

Okay, buckle up for something completely wild. Remember Donkey Kong? Well, Donkey Kong Bananza (2025) took him and a younger Pauline on a ride that’s… well, let’s just say ‘bananza’ is the right word! In single-player, Pauline mostly comments from DK’s back. But in co-op, player two controls her and can literally sing to blow up parts of the environment! How cool is that?

Sure, being stuck on DK’s back isn’t the most liberating co-op experience, but for DK fans, the story goes to absolutely insane places in the final act—some of the most memorable gaming moments of 2025, for sure. It’s chaotic, it’s silly, and it’s a blast with a friend who doesn’t mind being the vocal powerhouse.

Looking for a co-op game with a bigger squad? Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One lets you team up with up to three other players as Ratchet, Clank, Captain Qwark, or even the villain-turned-ally Dr. Nefarious. The banter between these characters is hilarious, and trying different pairings makes replays super fun. The weapon variety is classic Insomniac creativity. It’s a shame it’s still stuck on the PS3, but if you have the means, it’s a co-op platformer treasure.

Who you gonna call? For Ghostbusters: The Video Game (the 2009 one), the answer is: your co-op buddy! The Wii version, with its more cartoonish style, offered full two-player co-op. Hearing the original cast back together is a nostalgia trip, and blasting ghosts side-by-side never gets old. It’s the sequel the movies deserved, and playing it with a friend makes you feel like a real part of the team.

Want your co-op with a side of screams? The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan is a fantastic choice. Up to five players can each control a character exploring the creepy SS Ourang Medan. The best part? Every decision matters, and anyone can die at any time. It makes for a thrilling, unpredictable story that you’ll want to replay just to see what different choices lead to. It’s more interactive horror movie than pure game, and that’s what makes it so perfect for a group.

For the fantasy fans, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North is a hidden gem. Set during the events of the main trilogy, you and two friends can become Eradan (the human ranger), Farin (the dwarf warrior), and Andriel (the elf mage). It’s a linear action RPG, but with a full trio, hacking through orcs and exploring Middle-earth feels epic. The story fits perfectly into the lore—it feels like a lost chapter, not cheap filler. A real shame it’s been delisted; here’s hoping for a re-release!

Of course, we can’t forget Portal 2. Everyone loves the single-player campaign, but the co-op mode is a masterpiece in its own right. You and a friend play as the adorable robots Atlas and P-Body, running through tests set by the hilariously sarcastic GLaDOS. The puzzles require real teamwork and communication. With brilliant writing and those ‘aha!’ moments you can only share, many argue the co-op is even better than the main story. It’s a timeless test of friendship (and spatial reasoning!).

Finally, for a quieter, sweeter adventure, there’s Unravel Two. You play as two little Yarnys (one red, one blue) navigating beautiful landscapes. You’ll use your yarn to swing, pull objects, and solve environmental puzzles together. It’s a game about connection, told without a single word. The way these silent creatures rely on each other is genuinely heartwarming. It’s the perfect chill co-op game after a long day.

So, there you have it! From emotional journeys and chaotic DK escapades to ghostbusting and portal-solving, the world of co-op games is so much richer than just one title. What’s your favorite co-op memory? Let me know in the comments! Maybe it’s time to call up that gaming buddy and start a new adventure. After all, isn’t sharing the experience what makes gaming truly special? 👾✨