The PlayStation 3 certainly had its fair share of multiplayer games, but these kinds of games didn’t hit their stride until the PlayStation 4. Thankfully, multiplayer games are once again at the forefront of the best games on PS5. Despite the system being relatively new, there are already a ton of games to try out — whether via online or local multiplayer co-op games. Before picking up a new PS5, you might be wondering what kind of multiplayer games Sony’s new system has to offer.
There are lots to choose from, but for this list, we’ve rounded up the very best multiplayer games available on the PS5 right now.
Splitgate
71%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter
Developer
1047 Games
Publisher
1047 Games
Release
May 22, 2019
When Splitgate launched over the summer of 2021, it took the industry by storm, with tens of thousands of players flocking to it over the course of a couple of days. This led to server overflow, causing queue times to be hours long just to get into the game! Splitgate is a mashup of Halo and Portal, with fast, frenetic movement at the forefront. Of course, players have fallen in love with its portal mechanics, allowing players to place them all along surfaces to outplay and outsmart opponents. Even if your shooting skills aren’t the best, you can get the drop on your enemies with the use of a well-timed portal, giving you a fighting chance to come out ahead. The game simply feels good to play, with fluid locomotion and satisfying shooting tying everything together. Best of all is that Splitgate is free to play!
It Takes Two
91%
4.5/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Platform, Adventure
Developer
Hazelight Studios
Publisher
Electronic Arts
Release
March 25, 2021
Serving as one of the most inventive cooperative games of the past decade, It Takes Two is not playable solo. Designed with co-op multiplayer in mind, this is a game about two parents who are on the brink of divorce. While the story itself might leave a little to be desired, the gameplay is outstanding, offering smart puzzles and obstacles that must be overcome through jolly cooperation. The setpieces are wild, the gameplay is varied, and the sheer imaginative design is unlike anything we’ve seen in recent memory. This game is true to its name, too, as it drives home the idea of working together. This theme is presented in the gameplay, as well as in the story, as the two still have to be there for their daughter. The best thing is that you only need one copy to play — each one comes with a pass so you can enjoy it with a friend without having to purchase two.
Destiny 2
74%
3.5/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre
Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Tactical, Adventure
Developer
Bungie
Publisher
Activision
Release
September 06, 2017
There’s never been a better time to dive into Destiny 2, a game that has come a long way since its launch in 2017. It’s even better on PS5, running at 4K resolution at 60 frames per second. While you can definitely play Destiny 2 solo, much of it is designed with multiplayer in mind — whether you join friends to take on a raid or fight against them in the game’s PvP mode, The Crucible. Destiny 2‘s greatest selling point is its gameplay loop, which constantly encourages you to grind to collect more loot. Beyond that, it simply feels incredible — we’d expect nothing less from Bungie, the creators of Halo. Though Destiny 2 was available for $60 at launch, it has since been converted to a free-to-play game, with paid expansions available periodically. But that means you can dive in and try it out without spending a dime.
Mortal Kombat 11: Ultimate
90%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre
Fighting
Developer
NetherRealm Studios
Publisher
Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
Release
November 17, 2020
Perhaps fighting games are more your jam. If so, you’ll be happy to know that Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate is available on PS5, serving as the definitive edition of the original. MK11 Ultimate features the base fighting game, Kombat Packs 1 and 2, and the Aftermath DLC — all in one package for PS5. Remember, if you own the last-gen PS4 version, you can upgrade to PS5 for free. The next-gen version includes 4K dynamic resolution, faster load times, and cross-gen/cross-platform play. This means you can play with friends on Xbox One, Xbox Series X, or PS4 while playing on PS5. You’ll now have so many different ways to unleash deadly Fatalities upon your friends and foes, regardless of their platform. Or, you can destroy the competition in local couch multiplayer. The Mortal Kombat series is an absolute classic, and this one ups the ante in nearly every way — bringing together famous fighters like Rambo and The Terminator while telling an interesting story. This is not a fighting game to miss.
Borderlands 3
78%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre
Shooter
Developer
Gearbox Software
Publisher
2K Games
Release
September 13, 2019
The famous loot-based first-person shooter (or looter shooter, as it’s sometimes called) has made its way to next-gen, giving you more reasons than one to jump back into Borderlands 3 on PS5. For starters, those who owned the PS4 version will gain access to the game on PS5 for free. The next-gen version will feature up to four-player split-screen cooperative gameplay, 4K visuals at 60 frames per second in single-player or online multiplayer modes, and all the latest updates. Speaking of which, Borderlands 3 has received multiple content drops since its release last year, so you’ll have no shortage of things to do when you jump in on PS5. As with many games, Borderlands 3 is best experienced with friends, and, thankfully, there are multiple options for doing so. There’s something so immensely satisfying about running around the open world with your buddies on the quest for loot, and Borderlands 3 sure delivers on that front. Take a look at our list of the best weapons in Borderlands 3 and our character guide to get a head start.
Tiny Tina's Wonderlands
70%
4/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Gearbox Software
Publisher
2K Games
Release
March 25, 2022
What if you like the gameplay and overall style of Borderlands but not the post-apocalyptic themes? If so, you might be interested in Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, a spinoff game set in the Borderlands universe, but with a greater emphasis on dragons, wizards, and dungeons instead of the Mad Max-inspired themes from Borderlands. This game plays almost exactly like its predecessors, though, with first-person shooter mechanics, a robust RPG system full of upgrades, tons of loot, bosses to defeat, and large open levels to explore. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands also has an all-star cast of characters with appearances by Andy Samberg, Wanda Sykes, Will Arnet, and Ashly Burch as Tiny Tina herself. These characters tie the package together, with funny, memorable performances that make the game hard to put down. And of course, the entire experience is playable cooperatively, just like the other Borderlands games.
Godfall
62%
5/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Counterplay Games
Publisher
Gearbox Publishing
Release
November 12, 2020
Godfall on PS5 certainly isn’t the best reason to get a PS5, but despite its flaws, it’s a fun action game when played with friends. Referred to as a “looter-slasher,” Godfall takes the familiar loot-based mechanics popularized by Diablo, Borderlands, and Destiny and mixes in some fun, fluid melee combat. You can play in groups of three while taking down enemies, bosses, and, of course, gathering loot. A healthy mixture of light and heavy attacks with a simple yet effective parry system help to make Godfall feel great, even if it’s a tad repetitive at times. It’s ever-so-satisfying to see those numbers go up when you find new gear, and that’s what makes this game fun. Just ignore the bland story, reused level design, and mission structure, and you’ll have a good time — more so with friends.
Fortnite
68%
4/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Strategy
Developer
Epic Games
Publisher
Epic Games
Release
July 25, 2017
Whether you love it or hate it, you can’t deny the importance of Fortnite, and on PS5, it will be playable in 4K at up to 60 fps across all game modes. You’ll also find better textures and improved performance thanks to the PS5’s solid-state drive — whether you play online or in split-screen multiplayer. Fortnite is one of those comfort food games that always feels great to jump back into. You don’t always need to stay on top of the latest updates to have fun, but if you do, you’ll be rewarded handsomely. It’s a great game to boot up, play a couple of matches with friends, and then move onto something else. Even if you don’t secure a victory, it’s still a load of fun to see how long you and your squad can survive. Plus, it’s free, so there isn’t much of a downside to downloading it.
No Man's Sky
69%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, SteamVR, PlayStation VR, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Meta Rift
Genre
Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Simulator, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Hello Games
Publisher
Hello Games, 505 Games, Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
August 09, 2016
You’ve probably seen us praise No Man’s Sky ad nauseam, but the PS5 version, titled The Next Generation, is worthy of even more praise. The next-gen version features more assets spread out across the terrain to make for a thicker, more realistic-looking environment, the ability to build larger bases, cross-play, transferrable saves, 4K visuals at 60 fps, and most importantly, 32-player multiplayer. The large-scale multiplayer functionality is huge, making No Man’s Sky feel even more populated than ever before. To be frank, there isn’t anything like No Man’s Sky. Being able to explore 18 quintillion (that’s 18 with 18 more zeroes after it) procedurally-generated planets that mostly feel unique is a wild experience — whether you play solo or with friends. But really, you’ll probably have a better time if you’ve got some buddies to help you stay safe from the harsh, hazardous weather found on many planets you’ll come across. The PS5 upgrade is free to all who own the PS4 game. No Man’s Sky goes beyond an open-world game — it’s an open universe adventure, instead!
NBA 2K22
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Simulator, Sport
Developer
Visual Concepts
Publisher
2K
Release
September 09, 2021
NBA 2K22 is one of the highlights of the PS5, not just in its visuals, but also in the way it utilizes the DualSense’s haptic feedback features. Playable with up to nine other players online, NBA 2K22 is the best-looking basketball game to date, with a ton of modes to sink your teeth into. The next-gen version is playable in 4K at 60 fps and features an up-to-date roster with improved gameplay features. Competition is one of the core pillars of the game, and you can enjoy it with — or against — your friends online or in local couch multiplayer modes. If you want something that is a well-rounded showcase for what the PS5 can do, look no further than NBA 2K22. Aside from the fun online pillar, this game also features a fully playable WNBA career mode.
Overcooked! All You Can Eat
90%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Simulator, Strategy, Indie
Developer
Team17, Ghost Town Games
Publisher
Team17
Release
November 12, 2020
Games like Mario Party and Monopoly always have been known for destroying friendships, but those pale in comparison to Overcooked! All You Can Eat. This definitive version of Overcooked! features both games and all their DLC, along with new content, such as 4K visuals, updated accessibility options, and cross-platform play. This package is ripe with content and is great for the whole family — provided you don’t kill each other in the process. Overcooked! is a game about — wait for it — cooking. In it, you need to effectively prepare and serve orders while making sure they’re made accurately. You can play it with up to three other players in local multiplayer and online modes. It’s a cooking game that will likely make you laugh throughout, even if you’re losing because it’s so much chaotic fun.
Sackboy: A Big Adventure
77%
Platforms
PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Genre
Platform, Adventure
Developer
Sumo Digital
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
November 12, 2020
If you’d like a family-friendly game that’s less chaotic but still playable in co-op, then you should check out Sackboy: A Big Adventure. Built on the foundation of LittleBig Planet, Sackboy: A Big Adventure is a 3D platformer, similar to the beloved Mario games. It features gorgeous, vibrant visuals, light puzzles, and all the quirkiness you could hope for. An online multiplayer mode will be available later this year. But for now, you can play the game in couch co-op with up to four players. If you want a fun platformer to enjoy solo or with friends, or if you’ve got younger gamers at home, Sackboy: A Big Adventure is worth checking out.
Demon's Souls
87%
Platforms
PlayStation 5
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Hack and slash/Beat 'em up
Developer
Bluepoint Games
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
November 12, 2020
Demon’s Souls might not be the first game people think about when talking about multiplayer, but online play is at this game’s core. Playing Demon’s Souls is most enjoyable when taking advantage of multiplayer. You’ll be invaded by enemy players, get help from friends, and utilize the community to manipulate the game’s World Tendency. And trust us, you’re going to need the help when it’s time to take on the game’s toughest bosses. The Souls games are notoriously difficult, as you probably already know, and Demon’s Souls for PS5 is no different. Remember, though, that the bosses gain extra health when you bring in real players to help, so keep that in mind before you go on a summoning spree. Typically, you’ll only ever need one additional player to take down a challenging foe. Make sure to be on the lookout for enemy invaders, though, as they can easily take you down from behind if you aren’t paying attention. Demon’s Souls is iconic for a reason, so do yourself a favor and check it out if you like RPG gaming.
Apex Legends
78%
4/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter
Developer
Respawn Entertainment
Publisher
Electronic Arts
Release
February 04, 2019
Maybe you’d like to try a battle royale that doesn’t include a building system like Fortnite. Perhaps you might like Apex Legends, a battle royale that blends class-based characters with the popular last-person-standing formula. Each character or “legend” has their own identity, and it shines through, not just in gameplay, but in story and lore as well. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another FPS game that feels and plays as fluidly as Apex Legends. In fact, this game is based in the Titanfall universe, and with that in mind, you can clearly see the connections (though you won’t find any Titans in Apex). It’s a game that continues to evolve over time, and we’re excited to see how it changes with each update. Best of all is that it’s free!
Puyo Puyo Tetris 2
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Puzzle, Arcade
Developer
Sega
Publisher
SEGA of America, Sega, Sega Europe
Release
December 07, 2020
There isn’t much like Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 on this list. As its name suggests, it’s a mashup of the beloved Puyo Puyo and Tetris that doesn’t seem like it should work — but it does. In this sequel, you can play offline or online with your friends, across various modes. It’s just as quirky and lighthearted as the first game, blending together the iconic puzzlers fans know and love. Although you probably won’t be playing Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 for its story, you’ll be happy to know it has a lovable cast of well-written characters that appear in between (and during) matches, so you have that to look forward to, as well. But above all else, this game is a masterclass in gameplay. Whether you’re playing Tetris, Puyo Puyo, or both at the same time, you’ll likely have a blast with this puzzle game — and more so online.
Rocket League
83%
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Racing, Sport, Indie
Developer
Psyonix
Publisher
Psyonix
Release
July 07, 2015
Rocket League is yet another free-to-play game that has captivated its audience thanks to its tight gameplay and satisfying loop. The premise? Soccer with cars. And if that sounds absolutely bonkers, it is. What’s great about Rocket League is that it appeals to the general player since it’s so easy to pick up and play. It’s got an easy concept to grasp: Put the ball through the goal. However, things get out of hand since steering your car while pushing a ball isn’t as easy as it seems. Still, it’s something you can quickly get the hang of after a few games. Skilled competitors will also find value in it, as matches can get heated very quickly, especially if the contestants are of equal experience levels. Beyond that, you can earn in-game currency to spend on what feels like thousands of different cosmetics, giving you even more reason to keep playing. It’s a game that you can quickly jump into and play a few rounds before bed, making it super appealing to a wide install base.
Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Square Enix
Publisher
Square Enix
Release
December 07, 2021
Is there a comeback story better than Final Fantasy XIV? When the game first launched in 2010, it was in terrible shape, but following 2013’s A Realm Reborn expansion, things started to turn around. Now, following the launch of the Endwalker expansion, Final Fantasy XIV is one of the highest-rated MMORPGs of all time. In fact, the game has become so popular that Square Enix had to temporarily stop all sales of new copies to help prevent the servers from being overloaded over the 2021 holiday season. Critics and fans have praised Final Fantasy XIV‘s gameplay, progression, and story, with each expansion improving upon nearly all aspects of the game. After the launch of Endwalker, it was revealed that Final Fantasy XIV has over 24 million registered users, making it one of the most successful MMOs of all time.
Back 4 Blood
81%
4/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter
Developer
Turtle Rock Studios
Publisher
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Release
October 12, 2021
Back in the Xbox 360 era, a little game called Left 4 Dead captivated a wide audience. A sequel launched in 2009, but since then, fans have been starving for a cooperative zombie shooter. While Valve shows no signs of developing a sequel, Back 4 Blood from Turtle Rock Studios is the next best thing. It has all the DNA of a Left 4 Dead game, with funny characters, fun shooting, and hordes of zombies to overcome across various stages. The cool thing about Back 4 Blood is its card system, which allows you to build decks that give your character special enhancements like health boosts. You can play this game solo, but the real fun comes with enjoying it with friends, especially on harder difficulties. There’s something so satisfying about watching your teammates’ backs while joining forces to take down powerful enemies.
WWE 2K22
3.5/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Fighting, Simulator, Sport
Developer
Visual Concepts
Publisher
2K Sports
Release
March 11, 2022
After taking a year off and changing lead developers from Yuke’s to Visual Concepts, WWE 2K22 had a lot riding on its success. And thankfully, it was a great return to the series, with fewer bugs than previous installments, a fantastic roster, and some of the best visuals and animations the series has ever had. The coolest thing about this game is the Rey Mysterio showcase mode, which allows you to relive many of the high flyer’s most iconic matches — down to the exact spots that occurred within them. Beyond that, the redefined control scheme is simultaneously easier for newcomers to learn, while still feeling challenging for expert players to master. There’s also a major multiplayer component, with competitive battles online, the ability to create and share superstars, and even the ability to play myFACTION mode with others. If you’re a pro wrestling fan but have skipped recent entires, this one could be enough to bring you back.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II
80%
3.5/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter
Developer
Infinity Ward
Publisher
Activision Blizzard
Release
October 28, 2022
Most Call of Duty games are fun solo, but they’re even better with friends. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II is no exception, as it features a slew of multiplayer maps and modes to enjoy. Fast-paced players can duke it out in Kill Confirmed while those wanting to take it slow can play Search and Destroy. If competitive multiplayer isn’t your thing, you might enjoy the Spec Ops mode, a cooperative experience designed for players wanting a bit more linearity. But whichever mode you prefer, there’s likely something for you in Modern Warfare II.
Overwatch 2
65%
3.5/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter
Developer
Blizzard Entertainment
Publisher
Blizzard Entertainment
Release
October 04, 2022
Serving as a major change from its predecessor, Overwatch 2 introduces new mechanics that keep things fresh. This free-to-play sequel has a tremendous roster of over 35 characters, each with unique move sets and abilities. In this game, team sizes are only five instead of six, making each member far more valuable than before. It’s still just as fast-paced as the first game, but with many quality-of-life improvements such as a refined pinging system. Overall, this game is a blast, despite having a few wrinkles that need to be ironed out.
Elden Ring
96%
4/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
FromSoftware
Publisher
Bandai Namco Entertainment, FromSoftware
Release
February 25, 2022
One of 2022’s best games is Elden Ring, a massive action RPG that will no doubt test your skills. While it’s best-known for its fluid gameplay, satisfying progression system, and epic battles, the game also includes a robust multiplayer mode. It offers a cooperative mode that allows players to take down the game’s bosses. But if you’d rather go against your friends, you might enjoy Elden Ring’s PvP mode. In it, you can battle it out against other users online, which is one of the most exciting parts of this sprawling adventure.
Minecraft: Legends
60%
3.5/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Strategy, Arcade
Developer
Mojang Studios, Blackbird Interactive
Publisher
Xbox Game Studios
Release
April 18, 2023
You’ve never seen Minecraft like this. Minecraft Legends is a real-time action-strategy game that plays like a mix of Pikmin and Age of Empires. In it, players explore a large open world while commanding various allies to defeat the piglins. In typical Minecraft fashion, players can explore, gather resources, and battle enemies solo or in co-op. Though, playing with friends makes this one much more fun, as you can tackle objectives together. It’s a welcome spin on the Minecraft formula that doesn’t get enough credit.
Street Fighter 6
98%
4.5/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Fighting, Arcade
Developer
Capcom
Publisher
Capcom
Release
June 02, 2023
Fighting games aren’t for everyone, but Street Fighter 6 succeeds at appealing to a wider audience than ever before. It does so without sacrificing its deep mechanics, which experts will no doubt appreciate with this installment. But it also includes a rich story mode, with tons of other ways to enjoy it, especially online against friends. Once you master the art of combat in this entry, taking your battles online is the height of the experience, rewarding you for learning the game’s intricacies. Street Fighter 6 is full of style and is easily the most appealing fighting game in recent memory.
Diablo IV
88%
4/5
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Hack and slash/Beat 'em up
Developer
Blizzard Entertainment
Publisher
Blizzard Entertainment
Release
June 02, 2023
Diablo 4 is a game with so much to do, it’s almost overwhelming. You can explore a wide variety of dungeons while leveling up your character to become a powerful demon slayer, which is easier with friends. As you progress through the game, you earn more abilities and become stronger, but so do your enemies. This makes it almost essential to play alongside other Diablo 4 players, especially when battling powerful bosses. Diablo 4 is easily one of 2023’s best games and it’s even better with a full party.
