12 Best 2-Player Games For PS5 (Our Favourites)

Can Two Players Have Twice the Fun? The 12 Best PS5 Games That Prove They Can

Finding the perfect game to enjoy with a friend right beside you has become increasingly challenging in an era dominated by online multiplayer. While online gaming offers its own advantages, there’s something special about sharing the same space with another player—reading their expressions, celebrating victories together, and engaging in friendly trash talk without a headset.

Let’s begin our exploration of the best PS5 games that deliver exceptional local multiplayer experiences. These titles not only showcase the impressive capabilities of Sony’s latest console but also revive the joy of couch co-op gaming, proving that local multiplayer remains a vibrant and essential part of gaming culture.

What Makes a Great 2-Player PS5 Game?

Before diving into our comprehensive list, it’s worth understanding what elements elevate a two-player experience from merely good to truly exceptional:

• Balanced gameplay that accommodates different skill levels
• Intuitive controls that new players can quickly grasp
• Meaningful co-op mechanics rather than simply adding a second character
• Visual clarity that prevents confusion when two players share a screen
• Replayability factors that keep the experience fresh
• Accessibility options to ensure everyone can participate

With these criteria in mind, we’ve curated a list of the 12 best two-player games currently available for the PlayStation 5. These selections span various genres and offer different types of cooperative and competitive experiences to suit different preferences.

The 12 Best 2-Player Games for PS5

1. It Takes Two

Developer: Hazelight Studios
Genre: Action-Adventure, Platformer
Release Date: March 26, 2021

It Takes Two stands as perhaps the definitive co-op experience of this console generation. Created by Josef Fares and his team at Hazelight Studios, this game was designed exclusively for two players, with no single-player option available.

The narrative follows Cody and May, a couple on the brink of divorce who find themselves transformed into dolls by their daughter’s tears. Players must work together to navigate whimsical environments, solve ingenious puzzles, and potentially save their relationship in the process.

What makes It Takes Two truly exceptional is how it constantly introduces new mechanics and gameplay styles. One moment you’re engaged in a third-person shooter sequence; the next, you’re navigating a 2D platforming section. Each level brings fresh ideas, and the asymmetrical gameplay ensures both players have unique abilities that must be combined to progress.

The game won numerous accolades, including Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2021, cementing its status as not just a great co-op game but one of the finest gaming experiences available on PS5.

2. Sackboy: A Big Adventure

Developer: Sumo Digital
Genre: 3D Platformer
Release Date: November 12, 2020

The LittleBigPlanet series has always emphasized multiplayer creativity, and while Sackboy: A Big Adventure moves away from the creation aspects, it doubles down on delivering a charming platforming experience perfect for two players.

Sumo Digital crafted a game that feels like playing through a vibrant arts and crafts project. The tactile environments, comprised of fabric, cardboard, and other craft materials, provide a visually unique setting for cooperative platforming challenges.

What distinguishes Sackboy as an excellent two-player experience is its thoughtful approach to collaboration. While most levels can be completed solo, playing with a friend unlocks special team-up moves and entirely new levels designed specifically for multiple players. These co-op-only stages feature some of the most creative challenges in the game, requiring precise coordination and communication.

The accessible controls make this an ideal choice for experienced gamers playing with less skilled partners, while the increasing difficulty ensures the game remains engaging for all skill levels.

3. Overcooked! All You Can Eat

Developer: Team17, Ghost Town Games
Genre: Cooking Simulation
Release Date: November 12, 2020

Few games capture the chaotic joy of cooperation quite like Overcooked! All You Can Eat, which bundles both original games with all DLC and enhanced visuals for PS5. This culinary chaos simulator puts players in the role of chefs working together to prepare, cook, and serve dishes within time limits across increasingly absurd kitchen layouts.

What begins as a straightforward cooking exercise quickly escalates as kitchens split apart, move on conveyor belts, or transform entirely mid-level. Communication becomes essential as players must coordinate who chops vegetables, who cooks the meat, and who washes the dishes.

The genius of Overcooked lies in how it creates natural moments of both frustration and triumph. A perfectly executed service feels like a masterclass in teamwork, while mistakes cascade into hilarious disasters. The game scales brilliantly from two to four players, with two-player sessions offering a more strategic experience as each player must manage multiple responsibilities.

With over 200 levels, 80+ chefs to unlock, and the new assist mode making the experience more accessible than ever, Overcooked! All You Can Eat offers tremendous value and replayability for duos looking for a challenge that’s as rewarding as it is amusing.

4. KeyWe

Developer: Stonewheat & Sons
Genre: Co-op Puzzle
Release Date: August 31, 2021

If managing a postal office as kiwi birds sounds like an oddly specific premise, that’s because KeyWe embraces its uniqueness with enthusiasm. This charming co-op game casts players as Jeff and Debra, two kiwi postal workers who must jump, peck, and butt-slam their way through various mail-room tasks.

The gameplay revolves around operating telegraph machines, sorting packages, and typing up addresses—all using the bodies of flightless birds. Since kiwis lack hands, players must get creative with how they interact with the environment, creating a physical comedy that enhances the cooperative experience.

What makes KeyWe particularly well-suited for two players is how it divides responsibilities. Each level presents a postal challenge that requires both kiwis to work in tandem, but gives each bird distinct tasks that must be synchronized. The game’s difficulty comes not from complex controls but from the coordination required between players.

With seasonal variations that introduce new mechanics and challenges throughout the year, KeyWe offers a surprisingly deep experience wrapped in an adorable package. It’s an ideal choice for players seeking something quirky and cooperative without the high-pressure situations found in some other multiplayer games.

5. Borderlands 3

Developer: Gearbox Software
Genre: First-Person Shooter, Looter Shooter
Release Date: September 13, 2019 (PS5 upgrade: November 12, 2020)

The Borderlands series has long been a staple of cooperative gaming, and the third mainline entry brings the franchise’s signature mix of frenetic shooting and irreverent humor to the PS5 with enhanced visuals and performance.

Borderlands 3 allows two players to share a screen in split-screen mode, embarking on a loot-driven adventure across multiple planets. Each player selects from four unique Vault Hunters with distinct abilities: Amara the Siren, FL4K the Beastmaster, Moze the Gunner, and Zane the Operative.

What sets Borderlands 3 apart as a two-player experience is its approach to character building and loot sharing. Each player develops their character along different skill trees, creating complementary abilities that combine in combat. The game’s instanced loot system means each player sees their own drops, eliminating competition for resources and allowing both players to progress at their own pace.

The PS5 version significantly improves the split-screen experience, offering smooth 60fps gameplay even with two players and the chaos of countless explosions and effects filling the screen. With four campaign DLCs and countless side missions, Borderlands 3 provides one of the most content-rich cooperative experiences available on the console.

6. Dirt 5

Developer: Codemasters
Genre: Racing
Release Date: November 12, 2020

While racing games have traditionally excelled in multiplayer, split-screen options have become increasingly rare in the genre. Dirt 5 bucks this trend by offering a robust local multiplayer mode that harkens back to the golden age of couch competitive racing.

This off-road racing game supports four-player split-screen, making the two-player experience particularly spacious and visually clear. Players can compete across various event types—from traditional circuit races to drift challenges and obstacle courses—in locations ranging from New York’s frozen East River to the muddy tracks of Brazil.

What makes Dirt 5 stand out for two-player sessions is how the PS5’s power eliminates the performance compromises typically associated with split-screen gaming. Both players enjoy detailed environments, weather effects, and smooth framerates without the slowdown that plagued earlier generations’ multiplayer racing games.

The game’s accessibility options deserve special mention, with a range of driving assists that can be individually adjusted for each player. This allows friends of different skill levels to enjoy competitive races together without frustration, making Dirt 5 an excellent choice for both casual racing fans and more serious driving game enthusiasts.

7. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2

Developer: Vicarious Visions
Genre: Sports, Skateboarding
Release Date: March 26, 2021 (PS5 version)

The remastered collection of the first two Tony Hawk games represents more than just nostalgia—it’s a masterclass in how to update beloved classics while maintaining their essential appeal. For two-player gaming, the collection offers several modes that perfectly capture the “just one more try” competitive spirit of the originals.

Split-screen multiplayer includes traditional modes like Trick Attack, where players compete to rack up the highest score within a time limit, and Graffiti, where performing tricks on objects claims them for your color. The PS5 version runs at a rock-solid 60fps even in split-screen, with near-instantaneous loading times between attempts.

What makes THPS 1+2 particularly effective for two players is its accessibility combined with depth. The basic controls can be learned in minutes, but mastering combinations, maintaining combos, and finding optimal lines through each level provides a skill ceiling that keeps competition interesting over extended sessions.

The game’s create-a-park feature adds another dimension to two-player fun, allowing friends to design skateparks together and then immediately test them in competitive modes. With 21 levels from the original games and the full roster of modern and classic skaters, this remaster offers tremendous value for duos seeking both competitive and collaborative skateboarding action.

8. Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled

Developer: Beenox
Genre: Kart Racing
Release Date: June 21, 2019 (PS5 backward compatible)

While technically a PS4 title playable through backward compatibility, Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled performs excellently on PS5 with improved loading times and rock-solid performance, making it one of the best competitive two-player experiences available on the platform.

This remake of the 1999 PlayStation classic combines tight racing mechanics with the characters and aesthetics of the Crash Bandicoot universe. The drift-focused gameplay creates a higher skill ceiling than most kart racers, rewarding players who master its timing-based boost system.

For two players, the game offers split-screen racing across dozens of tracks, including the original CTR circuits and courses from Crash Nitro Kart. Beyond standard races, modes like Battle (where players attack each other in arena settings) and Relic Race (time trials with crate-smashing objectives) provide variety to the multiplayer experience.

What distinguishes CTR as an exceptional two-player game is how it balances accessibility with depth. Newcomers can enjoy the colorful characters and fun power-ups, while the advanced drift-boosting mechanics give experienced players techniques to continuously improve. This makes it ideal for both balanced competition between equally skilled friends and for experienced players to enjoy racing with less skilled partners.

9. Unravel Two

Developer: Coldwood Interactive
Genre: Puzzle Platformer
Release Date: June 9, 2018 (PS5 backward compatible)

Another backward-compatible title that shines on PS5, Unravel Two transforms the single-player experience of the original Unravel into one of the most charming cooperative adventures available.

The game follows two Yarnys—small creatures made of yarn—who are connected by a single strand. This connection forms both a narrative and mechanical core, as players must use their tether to swing across gaps, create bridges for each other, and solve environmental puzzles.

What sets Unravel Two apart as a cooperative experience is how it blends accessibility with genuine cooperation. Many puzzles can only be solved when both players perform different actions simultaneously. However, a single player can control both Yarnys if needed, making it possible to help less experienced partners through challenging sections.

The game’s visual beauty deserves special mention, with environments that range from sun-dappled forests to menacing industrial landscapes. The wordless storytelling creates an emotional journey that two players experience together, making this not just a game to play with a friend but one to connect through.

10. NBA 2K24

Developer: Visual Concepts
Genre: Sports Simulation
Release Date: September 8, 2023

Sports games have always excelled as multiplayer experiences, and NBA 2K24 represents the pinnacle of basketball simulation on PS5. The game’s presentation is unmatched, with player models, animations, and arena details that blur the line between game and broadcast.

For two players, NBA 2K24 offers multiple ways to enjoy basketball together. Players can compete head-to-head, controlling full teams in exhibition matches or entire seasons. Alternatively, they can join forces in cooperative play, with each person controlling a single player in a team setting.

What makes NBA 2K24 particularly effective for two-player sessions is its flexible difficulty settings and control schemes. The game offers everything from simplified controls for newcomers to complex simulation options for basketball aficionados. The MyTeam mode allows friends to build dream teams together, while the City mode provides an open-world basketball community to explore.

The PS5 version takes advantage of the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, creating a more immersive experience as players feel the difference between a perfect release and a mistimed shot through the controller itself.

11. Rocket League

Developer: Psyonix
Genre: Sports, Vehicular
Release Date: July 7, 2015 (PS5 enhanced)

Describing Rocket League as “soccer with rocket-powered cars” might sound simplistic, but this straightforward premise has evolved into one of the most popular and enduring multiplayer games of the last decade. The PS5 enhancement brings 4K resolution and 120fps gameplay to further refine the experience.

For two-player split-screen, Rocket League offers both cooperative and competitive options. Friends can team up against AI opponents or online players, or face off against each other in 1v1 duels. The game’s basic controls—drive, jump, boost—are easy to learn, but the skill ceiling for aerial maneuvers and team plays is virtually limitless.

What makes Rocket League an exceptional two-player game is its perfect balance of accessibility and depth. A new player can contribute meaningfully within minutes by focusing on basic positioning and simple hits, while experienced players constantly find new techniques to master. Matches are brief (typically 5 minutes), allowing for quick sessions that often stretch into “just one more game” marathons.

The game’s free-to-play model means there’s no barrier to entry, with split-screen functionality available from the start. With continuous updates adding new modes, arenas, and customization options, Rocket League remains as fresh and exciting today as it was at launch.

12. Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate

Developer: NetherRealm Studios
Genre: Fighting
Release Date: November 17, 2020 (PS5 version)

Fighting games represent perhaps the most enduring genre for local two-player gaming, and Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate delivers the complete package on PS5 with enhanced visuals, all DLC fighters, and the continuation of the series’ legendarily brutal combat.

Beyond the franchise’s signature fatalities and over-the-top violence, Mortal Kombat 11 introduces sophisticated fighting mechanics that balance accessibility and depth. The custom variation system allows players to modify characters with different special moves and abilities, creating personalized versions of the roster’s 37 fighters.

What distinguishes MK11 as a two-player experience is its comprehensive tutorial system and practice options. These features make it easier for friends of different skill levels to enjoy competitive matches together. The dedicated “Kasual” match options include handicaps and modifiers that can level the playing field between experienced players and newcomers.

The PS5 version benefits from near-instantaneous loading times between matches and crystal-clear 4K resolution that showcases every brutal detail of the combat. The extensive single-player content also provides value for two friends playing in turns, with the cinematic story mode offering a Hollywood-quality narrative experience.

How to Enhance Your 2-Player PS5 Experience

To get the most out of these games, consider these tips:

• Invest in a second DualSense controller to enjoy the full haptic feedback and adaptive trigger features in supported games
• Position your seating arrangement to minimize screen glare for both players
• Explore accessibility settings within each game to accommodate different player needs
• Create player profiles for frequent guests to save their progress and preferences
• Consider a larger display if split-screen visibility becomes an issue

The Future of 2-Player Gaming on PS5

While online multiplayer continues to dominate the gaming landscape, the resurgence of high-quality local cooperative and competitive experiences on PS5 demonstrates an enduring demand for shared gaming spaces. Developers are increasingly recognizing the value of creating games that friends and family can enjoy together in the same room.

Looking ahead, several upcoming titles promise to expand the PS5’s two-player library even further. The announced cooperative mode for God of War Ragnarök, the split-screen racing in Gran Turismo 7, and indie gems like Towerborne all suggest that local multiplayer will remain an important part of the PlayStation ecosystem.

Twice the Players, Twice the Fun

The PS5’s powerful hardware has revitalized local multiplayer gaming, eliminating many of the technical compromises that plagued previous generations’ split-screen experiences. From the perfectly balanced cooperative challenges of It Takes Two to the competitive thrills of Mortal Kombat 11, today’s two-player games offer experiences that simply cannot be replicated online.

These 12 titles represent the best of what’s currently available, spanning genres and gameplay styles to suit any duo’s preferences. Whether you’re looking to cooperate or compete, to engage with deep narratives or enjoy quick pick-up-and-play sessions, the PS5 offers local multiplayer experiences that prove gaming is often better when shared with someone beside you.

The next time you’re looking to connect with a friend, partner, or family member through gaming, consider these exceptional titles. After all, in a world increasingly focused on connecting remotely, there’s something special about sharing a couch, a screen, and an adventure.