Couch co-op: how to find games two or more people can play on one TV
What 'local co-op', 'split-screen' and 'online only' mean on a game box, how many controllers you need, and well-known games built for playing together.
We choose what to recommend on our own; no brand or store reviews our articles before they go live. Some outbound links are affiliate links, which support this site at no cost to you. How we earn.
Short version. Look for "local multiplayer," "local co-op" or "split-screen" on the box or store listing — "online multiplayer" alone means each person needs their own console. Count controllers before game night, and remember that the Switch 2's Joy-Con can be split for two players in many games.
Playing together in the same room is one of the best things about consoles — and one of the easiest to get wrong when buying. Many popular games are online-only.
Reading the box
- Local multiplayer / local co-op: several people play on one console, one screen.
- Split-screen: the screen is divided so each player has their own view.
- Online multiplayer: each player needs their own console (and usually a subscription).
- Players: 1–4: the maximum number of local players, usually on the back of the box.
If in doubt, the store listing or the publisher's website will say.
How many controllers?
- Switch 2: the two included Joy-Con 2 can be used as two separate controllers in many games. For four players, add a second pair or Pro Controllers.
- PS5 and Xbox: one controller per player. A spare controller is the essential couch co-op accessory — and, yes, where this site gets its name.
See our controller guide to pick the right one.
Kinds of co-op games, with well-known examples
We list widely known titles that support local play; check the platform and player count for each before buying.
Party and racing games. Short rounds, easy controls, laughter guaranteed. - Mario Kart World (Switch 2) — racing for up to four on one console. - Super Mario Party Jamboree (Switch, with a Switch 2 Edition) — board-game-style party game.
Cooperative chaos. Players must coordinate under pressure. - Overcooked! 2 (multiple platforms) — run a kitchen together; famous for friendly shouting.
Story co-op for two. Designed from the ground up for two players. - It Takes Two and Split Fiction (multiple platforms) — two-player adventures that require two people. Both also support online play, and the "Friend's Pass" lets a second player join online without buying the game.
Building and sandbox. - Minecraft (all platforms) — split-screen on consoles; open-ended and played across ages. - LEGO games (multiple platforms) — drop-in co-op that suits parents playing with younger children.
Platformers. - Nintendo's Mario and Kirby games often include co-op modes where a second player can help.
Making game night work
- Match the game to the least experienced player. Everyone has more fun.
- Check that it's local, not online-only.
- Charge every controller the day before.
- Sit close enough to read split-screen text on smaller TVs.
- Have a backup game for when a round gets too competitive.
Browse multiplayer games · Extra controllers
Facts, prices and policies in this article were checked in November 2026. Prices, bundles and store rules change often — always confirm on the product page before you buy. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
