Picking a game should be the easiest part of a PS5 night, but mixed preferences can turn it into the longest debate.
I start by checking three things: how many people are playing, whether everyone is in the same room, and how much anyone wants to spend.
That filter makes choosing PS5 multiplayer games less frustrating.
Some groups need online multiplayer games PS5 players can join from different homes, while others want fun multiplayer games PS5 owners can enjoy together on one couch.
Subscription requirements, team size, learning curve, and match length matter as much as reviews.
Before you get into the picks, it helps to know how these games actually get grouped and what “PS5 multiplayer” really covers, since that’s what decides which list below is worth your time.
What Counts As a PS5 Multiplayer Game?
A PS5 multiplayer game lets two or more people play together or against each other, either on one console or through an online connection.
These games generally fall into three categories: local co-op, online co-op, and online competitive.
Local co-op is designed for players in the same room using one PS5, usually through split-screen or shared-screen gameplay. It often works without an internet connection or PS Plus subscription.
Online co-op allows players in different locations to complete missions, campaigns, or objectives as a team. Online competitive games place players against each other in matches, races, or battles.
Both online formats usually require internet access and PS Plus, although free-to-play titles are often exceptions. Some games, including Baldur’s Gate 3, support both local split-screen and online co-op.
Best Online Co-Op And Multiplayer Games On PS5
Every game in this section needs an active PlayStation Plus subscription unless I say otherwise. These are built around squads, drop-in matches, or long online sessions with friends across the country.
1. Helldivers 2
Source: gamerant.com
Helldivers 2 sends teams of one to four players onto hostile planets packed with alien enemies and unpredictable objectives.
Coordination matters because friendly fire is always active, meaning one careless shot can wipe out a teammate. The game requires PS Plus for online play and works best with a squad that communicates clearly.
For more on how it holds up over dozens of hours, see our full Helldivers 2 review.
2. Fortnite
Source: PCMag.com
Fortnite is a free battle royale that works well for solo players but becomes more entertaining with a coordinated squad.
Its core battle royale mode does not require PS Plus, making it easy to start. Cross-play also allows friends on Xbox, PC, Switch, and other supported platforms to join the same matches.
3. Monster Hunter Wilds
Source: rollingstone.com
Monster Hunter Wilds rewards teams that plan before entering a hunt. One player may set traps, another may focus on breaking monster parts, while someone else deals heavy damage.
Combat feels slower and more tactical than a typical co-op shooter. Online multiplayer requires PS Plus and benefits from clear role coordination.
4. Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
Source: callofduty.com
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 offers both casual and ranked multiplayer for players who prefer fast, competitive matches.
Movement is quick, weapons feel responsive, and teamwork can decide close games.
Online multiplayer requires PS Plus. New players may face a steep learning curve because experienced opponents already understand maps, loadouts, and movement.
5. Rocket League
Source: aiptomics.com
Rocket League combines soccer with rocket-powered cars, creating short matches that are easy to understand but difficult to master.
New players can learn the basic controls within minutes, while advanced movement takes much longer. The game is free-to-play, and online competition offers enough depth to keep dedicated teams interested for years.
6. Grand Theft Auto Online
Source: PS Store
Grand Theft Auto Online is a large open-world multiplayer game built around missions, businesses, vehicles, heists, and long-term progression.
It suits players who enjoy extended sessions rather than quick matches.
Newcomers may feel behind because of its many systems and experienced community. Online access requires PS Plus on PlayStation consoles.
7. Destiny 2
Source: wired.com
Destiny 2 combines fast shooting, character progression, cooperative missions, and demanding raids. Higher-level activities require players to communicate, follow mechanics, and build useful loadouts.
Its seasonal structure regularly adds new goals, gear, and activities.
Online play requires PS Plus, while the large number of systems can feel confusing for new players.
Best Local Couch Co-Op And Split-Screen Games On PS5
None of these need internet or PS Plus. The only thing that limits you here is how many controllers you own.
8. It Takes Two
Source: Deadline.com
It Takes Two is designed entirely around two-player cooperation and cannot be completed alone. Each player controls a different character with unique abilities that must work together.
Only one person needs to own the game because the Friend’s Pass lets a partner join. Its puzzles and mechanics change constantly across levels.
9. Sackboy: A Big Adventure
Source: playstation.com
Sackboy: A Big Adventure supports up to four local players, making it a strong choice for families and mixed-age groups.
The colorful platforming is easy to understand, while forgiving checkpoints prevent mistakes from becoming frustrating.
New players can contribute without mastering complex controls, although later stages still offer enough challenge for experienced players.
10. Overcooked! All You Can Eat
Source: playstation.com
Overcooked! All You Can Eat puts up to four players in crowded kitchens filled with moving platforms, blocked paths, and strict timers.
Success depends on assigning jobs, sharing ingredients, and communicating clearly. The controls are simple, but the pressure rises quickly. Expect mistakes, laughter, and a few arguments once orders begin piling up.
11. LEGO Horizon Adventures
Source: lego.com
LEGO Horizon Adventures combines light combat, simple puzzles, and playful humor in a format that works well for younger players.
Cooperative play is available from the beginning, so two people can progress together without waiting for later levels.
Its low difficulty and forgiving design make it accessible, while familiar Horizon characters keep the story engaging.
12. Split Fiction
Source: nordic.ign.com
Split Fiction is a two-player cooperative game that cannot be played solo or expanded to a third participant.
Each stage introduces a different setting, mechanic, or genre, keeping the experience unpredictable.
Players must communicate closely to solve puzzles and survive action sequences. The frequent changes prevent the gameplay from becoming repetitive or overly familiar.
13. Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Source: pcgamer.com
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night offers local cooperative and competitive options within a large metroidvania environment.
Players explore interconnected areas, fight monsters, collect equipment, and improve abilities over time.
Its systems are deeper than those of a casual platformer, making it better suited to players who already enjoy action RPGs and exploration-focused games.
Best Competitive And Fighting Multiplayer Games On PS5
These support both local one-console matches and ranked online play, so check which mode you actually want before you start.
14. Tekken 8
Source: en.bandainamcoent.eu
Tekken 8 supports two-player local fights with separate controllers, making it easy to settle rivalries from the same couch.
Ranked online modes are also available for players who want tougher competition and steady progression.
Both formats feel polished, so the better choice depends on whether you are playing with someone nearby or chasing online ranks.
15. Street Fighter 6
Source: windowcentral.com
Street Fighter 6 uses a modern control scheme that simplifies special moves and reduces the barrier for new players.
Beginners can use simple attacks, while experienced players still have advanced combos and strategies to master.
16. Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls
Source: marvel.com
Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls builds team-based battles around recognizable Marvel heroes and villains. Its familiar characters may attract players who do not usually spend much time with fighting games.
The game is newer than established series such as Tekken or Street Fighter, so much of its long-term appeal will depend on balance, roster variety, and online support.
17. Mortal Kombat 1
Source: pcgamer.com
Mortal Kombat 1 combines traditional fighting modes with a cinematic, story-driven campaign that continues the franchise’s rebooted timeline.
The combat suits casual and experienced players, but its graphic finishers make the age rating worth checking for children.
18. EA Sports FC 26
Source: Express
EA Sports FC 26 supports both local matches and online competition, giving players flexibility based on who is available.
Local friendlies can be played against someone in the same room without a subscription.
Online modes, including Ultimate Team, require PS Plus. It suits quick couch matches as well as longer competitive progression online.
Best Racing And Sports Multiplayer Games On PS5
These racing and sports multiplayer games on PS5 offer competitive action for quick local matches and longer online sessions.
19. Gran Turismo 7
Source: thedrive.com
Gran Turismo 7 delivers realistic driving, detailed car tuning, and competitive online events. Its split-screen options are more limited than its solo and online modes.
Players will get the most from practicing tracks alone before entering online lobbies against friends or experienced racers.
20. NBA 2K26
Source: playstation.com
NBA 2K26 supports local basketball matches and several online modes. It works well for both quick local games and longer online progression.
Couch exhibition games against a friend do not require a subscription, while Park and most online features need PS Plus. It works well for both quick local games and longer online progression.
21. Madden NFL 26
Source: playstation.com
Madden NFL 26 offers reliable local and online matches for football fans. Its head-to-head modes are ideal for quick games against friends, although franchise mode remains focused on solo play.
Players wanting competitive matches will find more value than those seeking a shared campaign.
22. WWE 2K26
Source: store.2k.com
WWE 2K26 supports local and online wrestling matches with a large selection of match types. Its creation tools let players design custom wrestlers, entrances, and arenas.
This added customization gives the game more lasting appeal for groups that enjoy building their own rivalries.
23. MotoGP 26
Source: store.playstation.com
MotoGP 26 focuses on realistic motorcycle racing, detailed bike handling, and competitive online races. Its physics and braking mechanics can take some time to understand, especially for players new to motorcycle racing games.
New players can spend time training across different riding disciplines before joining online lobbies, making it easier to improve their control and racing technique.
Best Free-To-Play Multiplayer Games On PS5
Free to download doesn’t always mean free to play online. PS Plus is still required for online matchmaking in every game below.
24. Apex Legends
Source: gamerant.com
Apex Legends is a free battle royale built around three-player squads and hero characters with unique abilities. Each legend brings a different tactical role, encouraging teams to combine movement, defense, and support skills.
Matches are fast and competitive, making it a strong option for players who enjoy coordinated gunfights without paying upfront.
25. Warframe
Source: eurogamer.net
Warframe is a free cooperative science-fiction shooter centered on fast combat, character upgrades, and long-term progression.
Players complete missions, collect gear, and unlock Warframes, though the deep systems reward dedicated groups more than casual players.
26. Genshin Impact
Source: wired.com
Genshin Impact is a free open-world action RPG with exploration, quests, character collecting, and cooperative play.
Cross-save support allows progress to continue across mobile devices, PC, and supported consoles.
Multiplayer becomes available after reaching the required Adventure Rank, letting friends explore regions, fight bosses, and complete selected activities together.
27. Fall Guys
Source: PS store
Fall Guys is a free party battle royale filled with obstacle courses, races, and elimination rounds. Its simple controls make it suitable for players of different ages and skill levels.
Winning is enjoyable, but the unpredictable physics and frequent mistakes create most of the fun, especially when friends compete or cooperate in group-based shows.
28. Splitgate 2
Source: PS Store
Splitgate 2 is a free arena shooter that combines fast gunplay with portals used for movement, escapes, and surprise attacks.
Fast matches, smaller maps, and portal mechanics reward players who use strong positioning, timing, and map awareness.
29. PUBG: Battlegrounds
Source: playstation.com
PUBG: Battlegrounds is a free-to-play battle royale known for slower pacing, realistic weapons, and tactical decision-making.
Players must manage gear, positioning, and safe zones, making PUBG slower and more tactical than Fortnite or Apex Legends.
Best Party And Family Multiplayer Games On PS5
These prioritize easy pickup over skill, which makes them the best entry point for non-gamers joining a session.
30. Team Sonic Racing
Source: playstation.com
Team Sonic Racing is a casual kart racer with colorful tracks, familiar characters, and simple controls. It supports both local and online multiplayer, making it suitable for quick family sessions or races with friends.
New players can understand the basics after one round, while team mechanics add enough strategy to keep matches competitive.
If your group also plays on Switch, our fun Switch games list covers more family-friendly picks.
31. Just Dance 2026
Source: playstation.com
Just Dance 2026 is a motion-based party game that supports up to six players at once. No traditional controller experience is needed, so almost anyone can join immediately.
Players simply follow the dance routines shown on screen. It works best in a large, open room where everyone has enough space to move safely.
32. Crash Team Rumble
Source: activision.com
Crash Team Rumble is a light team-based arena game designed around quick matches and simple objectives.
Players work together to collect items, defend areas, and block opposing teams. Its short sessions make it useful when time is limited, although it may not satisfy players looking for deep progression or a long competitive grind.
33. Human Fall Flat
Source: playstation.com
Human Fall Flat is a physics-based puzzle game that supports cooperative play with up to eight players online.
Teams solve puzzles with awkward controls and unpredictable movement, turning mistakes into comedy for relaxed groups.
34. Party Animals
Source: windowscentral.com
Party Animals is a chaotic physics brawler where players punch, grab, throw, and push each other across hazardous arenas.
The controls are deliberately loose, so unexpected falls and mistakes become part of the fun. It works best with four or more friends, especially when everyone is together and reacting to each ridiculous moment.
35. Moving Out 2
Source: playstation.com
Moving Out 2 is a cooperative moving simulator that supports up to four players in local or online sessions.
Teams carry furniture, break through obstacles, and complete jobs before time runs out. Its fast pace and messy coordination feel similar to Overcooked, making it a strong choice for groups that enjoy playful teamwork and chaos.
How Much These Games Will Actually Cost You
Price shouldn’t be a surprise after you’ve already picked a game. Here’s how the list breaks down by budget, so you know what to expect before you check out.
- Free to play: Fortnite, Rocket League, Destiny 2, Apex Legends, Warframe, Genshin Impact, Fall Guys, Splitgate 2, and PUBG: Battlegrounds cost nothing to download. Online matchmaking on most of these still needs PS Plus.
- Under $30: Human Fall Flat, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, Crash Team Rumble, Party Animals, and Moving Out 2 sit at the low end. These are solid picks if you just want to try something new without committing much.
- $30 to $50: It Takes Two, Sackboy: A Big Adventure, Overcooked! All You Can Eat, Team Sonic Racing, Split Fiction, and Helldivers 2 land in the middle range. This is where most of the couch co-op list lives.
- $59.99 and up: New releases and annual sports titles cost the most. Tekken 8, Monster Hunter Wilds, Gran Turismo 7, EA Sports FC 26, NBA 2K26, Madden NFL 26, WWE 2K26, MotoGP 26, and Mortal Kombat 1 all sit at or near full price.
Full-price games often go on sale, sometimes within a few months of launch. If a title on this list isn’t urgent, it’s worth waiting for a seasonal PS Store sale before buying.
Conclusion
The best PS5 multiplayer games are not always the highest rated ones.
They are the ones your group can start quickly, afford easily, and enjoy without fighting the setup first.
A great pick for online friends may not work for couch co-op, and a competitive game may fall flat if everyone wants something relaxed.
I would check the player count, PS Plus requirement, session length, and learning curve before judging any title by hype alone.
That simple filter saves time and keeps the night moving. Revisit your options before every new session, especially after updates or sales.
Which PS5 multiplayer game does your group always return to? Tell us in the comments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Free PS5 Multiplayer Games Still Need PS+?
Yes. PS Plus is required for online multiplayer on PS5, even for free-to-play games like Fortnite or Apex Legends. Local or split-screen play with friends in the same room doesn’t require it. Only online matchmaking, parties, and cross-session play need an active subscription.
What’s the Best 2-Player Game for PS5?
It Takes Two is the strongest 2-player pick, built specifically for two people to complete together. For a lighter option, Overcooked! All You Can Eat works well for two players who want fast, chaotic co-op rather than a story-driven experience.
Which PS5 Multiplayer Games Support Crossplay?
Fortnite, Apex Legends, and EA Sports FC 25 all support crossplay, letting PS5 players match with friends on other platforms. Helldivers 2 and Sea of Thieves also support crossplay for online co-op. Local split-screen games like It Takes Two don’t need crossplay since play happens on one console.
Can I Play PS5 Multiplayer Games without Internet?
Yes, if you stick to local or split-screen titles like It Takes Two, Overcooked! All You Can Eat, or Baldur’s Gate 3’s local co-op mode. Anything listed as online co-op or online competitive requires an internet connection and an active PS Plus subscription.
