Playing games with a friend is a great way to spend a weekend. Sometimes, though, that friend may not be as well-versed as you in gaming.
These beginner co-op games are here for you, allowing you to still play games together without constant failure or frustration. There’s no need to walk away angry; you can stay with it until the credits roll.
Whether it’s playing with your child, niece or nephew, or maybe even your partner. From Stardew Valley to Castle Crashers and everything in between, these are the ten best co-op games for beginners.
10Super Mario Party
Partner party
Super Mario Party Dash and Dine
Other Mario Party games for Nintendo Switch may be more enjoyable, but Super Mario Party‘s Partner Party mode is the best co-op experience.
One issue with Super Mario Party was its difficulty: the game is far easier than the others, but if we’re looking for a beginner co-op game, that’s perfect.
Partner Party allows for teams of two to work together rather than competing against each other. Combined with the game’s accessibility, it’s a great way to introduce someone who may not be familiar with gaming to the Mario Party series.
Once they’re comfortable, you can move on to the Switch’s other Mario Party games.
Every Super Mario Party Jamboree Game Board, Ranked
Wondering which board is best in Super Mario Party Jamboree? Check out our list to find the boards worth playing over and over!
9Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe
Beginner co-op dream
No gaming franchise is as lauded for its accessibility as Kirby.
These side-scrolling platformers may not be difficult, but they’re still enjoyable, making them perfect for a beginner co-op experience.
What makes them work is their ability to challenge players to explore everything the game offers, which Return to Dreamland Deluxe excels at.
Sure, you can zip across each map from start to finish with no problem, but for those looking to 100% the game, there are a lot of secrets to discover.
8New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
Accessible platforming action
RatingStrongExpand
For those looking for a bit more challenging than Kirby, the Super Mario Bros. franchise has you covered.
The New Super Mario Bros. games excel at providing accessible platforming to gamers of all skill levels. While those looking for a challenge can find it, these games are generally easier.
It also allows for cooperative gameplay, making it a great gateway title for you to play with beginners. You’ll learn the platforming basics and get a good grasp on controlling your character, especially in co-op mode.
If you want an easier, quintessential gaming experience, look no further.
7Stardew Valley
Farming together
7.5/ 10
RPG
Simulation
Systems
OpenCritic ReviewsTop Critic Rating:90/100Critics Recommend:99%Platform(s)PC , Xbox One , Android , iOS , PS4 , SwitchReleasedFebruary 26, 2016Developer(s)ConcernedApePublisher(s)ConcernedApeMultiplayerLocal Multiplayer , Online MultiplayerEngineProprietaryESRBE for Everyone (Fantasy Violence, Mild Blood, Mild Language, Simulated Gambling, Use of Alcohol and Tobacco)X|S OptimizedNoFile Size Xbox Series1 GB (November 2023)Metascore89Split Screen OrientationVertical or HorizontalNumber of Players1-4Steam Deck CompatibilityVerifiedLocal Co-Op Support1-4 PlayersOpenCritic RatingMightyCross Savecross-progression is only available between the PC and mobile versions of the gameCross-Platform PlayStardew Valley does not currently support crossplay between different consoles and PCExpand
$15 at Xbox Games Store$15 at Nintendo eShop$35 at Best Buy$35 at Amazon
Stardew Valley is the definition of a relaxing, cozy game. Sure, a lot needs to be done on your farm, but there’s something enjoyable about completing these tasks.
Adding someone else to share the load makes things not only more manageable but also enjoyable. Plus, you’ll learn essential team-building skills that can be valuable as you and your player two work on tackling more difficult games.
From tending crops, visiting town, and fishing, doing it with someone by your side helps the time pass by, allowing for cooperative teamwork and personal bonding.
Stardew Valley Has Sold Over 41 Million Copies Across All Platforms
Thanks to its most recent sales figures, Stardew Valley’s success shows no sign of slowing down.
6Overcooked
Hot plate
Simulation
Systems
OpenCritic ReviewsTop Critic Rating:79/100Critics Recommend:76%FranchiseOvercookedPlatform(s)PS5 , PS4 , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S , Xbox One , Switch , PC , StadiaReleasedAugust 2, 2016Developer(s)Ghost Town GamesPublisher(s)Team17MultiplayerOnline MultiplayerEngineUnityESRBeHow Long To Beat8 HoursX|S OptimizedNoFile Size Xbox Series889.3 MBNumber of Players1-4Steam Deck CompatibilityVerifiedHow Long To Beat (Completionist Runs)12 HoursLocal Co-Op SupportYesOpenCritic RatingStrongExpand
For those looking for more of a challenge compared to Stardew Valley, Overcooked provides that while still providing accessibility.
Its basics are simple: you and your teammates are responsible for preparing dishes for a restaurant. The catch, though, is the obstacles the game throws at you.
From moving platforms to isolated workstations, nothing in Overcooked is as easy as it seems. However, its core fundamentals of cooperation still make it an excellent choice for beginners looking for a co-op game.
Provided you’ve never worked in a restaurant, of course. Otherwise, it may bring back traumatic memories.
5Snipperclips
Cut it out
Puzzle
Systems
OpenCritic ReviewsPlatform(s)Nintendo SwitchReleasedMarch 3, 2017Developer(s)SFB GamesPublisher(s)NintendoMultiplayerOnline MultiplayerEngineUnityESRBE For EveryoneHow Long To Beat4 HoursExpand
The charming Nintendo Switch co-op puzzle game has the perfect balance of accessibility and challenge.
Puzzles don’t feature an impossible difficulty curve, but they’re not rolling over, either. Instead, solving each puzzle relies on both trial and error and creativity.
Although Snipperclips has remained obscure throughout the Switch’s lifespan, it offers a delightful co-op experience that pleases new gamers and longtime veterans.
4Castle Crashers
Co-op mayhem
Castle Crashers characters
8/ 10
Hack and Slash
Systems
Platform(s)PC , PS3 , Xbox 360ReleasedAugust 27, 2008Developer(s)The BehemothDeveloperThe BehemothPublisher(s)The BehemothPublisherThe BehemothMultiplayerLocal Co-Op , Online Co-OpEngineBehemothESRBT For Teen Due To Blood and Gore, Cartoon Violence, Crude HumorHow Long To Beat7 HoursExpand
Developer The Behemoth is an expert at delivering over-the-top cooperative action. However, their games’ true hallmark is their accessibility.
Take Castle Crashers, arguably their most high-profile game. As a side-scrolling action beat ’em up, there’s a lot going on, but there’s never a time when you want to snap the control in half and give up.
The easy-to-learn, easy-to-master combat helps beginners stay engaged throughout the entire experience.
Some of its humor is very much a product of its time, but Castle Crashers is an excellent beginner co-op game that can help bridge them to more challenging adventures like It Takes Two.
3Cat Quest 2
Purrrfect co-op gaming
Adventure
Action RPG
Systems
OpenCritic ReviewsTop Critic Rating:77/100Critics Recommend:76%FranchiseCat QuestPlatform(s)PC , iOS , PS4 , Xbox One , Nintendo SwitchReleasedSeptember 24, 2019Developer(s)The GentlebrosPublisher(s)PQubeEngineUnityESRBE10+ For Everyone 10+ Due To Fantasy ViolenceHow Long To Beat8 HoursMetascore78PS Plus AvailabilityExtra & PremiumOpenCritic RatingStrongExpand
Hack-and-slash action RPGs are excellent co-op games for beginners because they are simple to play and can still be rewarding.
Cat Quest 2 is the perfect example of a game that succeeds due to deep, engaging gameplay that remains accessible.
Its simple combat system means anyone of all skill levels can hop in and play.
Plus, who doesn’t want to be a cat questing in an open world?
10 Best Low Stress Co-op Games
Teamwork without the tension.
2Keep Talking and No One Explodes
It’s a real blast
Party games like Jackbox are an excellent way to get beginner gamers involved with video games. However, we’re looking for beginner co-op games, and Jackbox doesn’t always offer cooperative gameplay.
Enter Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes, a co-op party game where people work together to defuse a time bomb. The catch is that one person has access to the bomb, but everyone else has the instructions.
Yes, things can get chaotic, but that only adds to the enjoyment.
Surprisingly, it’s not as stressful as it seems, and it is the most fun you can have with your friends shouting at you.
1Among Us
Catch The Imposter
8.5/ 10
Party Game
Systems
Any skill necessary to succeed in Among Us has nothing to do with your ability as a gamer. Instead, it’s all dependent on your social prowess.
Among Us is all about social deduction. You and your crew work together, but imposters among you attempt to kill the entire crew.
It’s an excellent recreation of popular party games like Mafia or Werewolf that offer not just an impressive amount of accessibility but also constant engagement for every player.
Sometimes, these party games leave people out of the action, but Among Us keeps everyone engaged.
