Playing games with friends has always been a fun way to spend time. Whether you’re looking to team up against monsters or compete in friendly matches, PC gaming offers many options for group play. The best games to play with friends on PC include cooperative adventures like Portal 2 and Stardew Valley, competitive titles such as Fall Guys and Counter Strike 2, and team-based games like Overwatch 2 and Apex Legends.
Finding the right game to enjoy with friends can make game nights more exciting. Some games need teamwork to solve puzzles or survive, while others let players compete against each other. The PC platform has many multiplayer games that fit different play styles and group sizes, from two-player co-op adventures to large team battles.
1. Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley offers one of the best cooperative gaming experiences for friends on PC. This farming simulator lets you and up to three friends build a farm together, each with your own cabin on the same plot of land.
Players share the same world, money, and farm progress, creating a true team experience. You can divide tasks based on what each person enjoys—one friend might focus on fishing while another tends crops.
The game features multiplayer options that let friends work together on all aspects of farm life. You can attend festivals, explore mines, and even get married in-game as a group.
Communication is key when playing with friends. Coordinating planting schedules and deciding how to spend your collective funds adds a fun strategic layer to the relaxing gameplay.
The pixel art style creates a charming atmosphere that’s appealing to players of all types. The game runs well even on modest PC hardware, making it accessible for friend groups with different computer setups.
Many players find Stardew Valley’s relaxing style perfect for casual gaming sessions. There’s no pressure to rush, allowing friends to enjoy each other’s company while playing at their own pace.
Each in-game season brings new crops and activities, keeping the gameplay fresh. This variety ensures you and your friends won’t get bored even after many hours of play.
The game includes a chat system that makes coordination easy even without external voice chat. You can quickly share discoveries or plan your next farm expansion without breaking immersion.
Mining expeditions offer exciting cooperative adventures. Friends can protect each other from monsters while searching for valuable resources to improve the farm.
Community events give your friend group goals to work toward together. Whether it’s completing the community center or mastering different skills, these shared accomplishments strengthen your bond.
Stardew Valley’s developer continues to update the game with new content. This ongoing support means you and your friends can look forward to fresh experiences with each major update.
2. Project Zomboid
Project Zomboid stands out as an exceptional multiplayer experience on PC. This zombie survival game offers players a unique blend of realism and challenge that’s perfect for groups of friends.
The game drops you and your friends into a zombie-infested world where survival is the main goal. You’ll need to work together to find food, build shelter, and fight off the undead hordes.
What makes Project Zomboid special is its depth. The game is the ultimate in zombie survival, with systems for looting, building, crafting, fighting, farming, and fishing.
Playing with friends transforms the experience completely. While the solo experience can feel extremely isolating, adding friends brings a new dimension to the apocalypse.
Setting up a multiplayer session is straightforward. You can play Project Zomboid with friends through various hosting options, including setting up your own server.
The game shines in its flexibility. Groups can create their own stories and challenges within the zombie apocalypse. Some players even set up specific scenarios with objectives that can be completed in just a few hours.
Communication is key in Project Zomboid. Working as a team to clear buildings, gather supplies, and defend your base creates memorable gaming moments.
The constant threat of death adds tension to every decision. One bite from a zombie could mean the end for your character, raising the stakes of each encounter.
Resource management becomes a group effort. Deciding who gets what weapons, tools, and food leads to interesting group dynamics and strategies.
The building system allows friends to create impressive bases together. From small cabins to fortified compounds, what you build is limited only by your creativity and resources.
Many players consider Project Zomboid the best multiplayer game ever made due to its depth and cooperative gameplay. The shared experience of surviving together creates strong bonds.
Updates continue to improve the multiplayer experience. Each patch adds new features and fixes that enhance gameplay for friend groups.
3. Phasmophobia
Phasmophobia brings ghost hunting to life in a way few games manage. This co-op horror game lets you and three friends explore haunted locations while trying to identify different types of ghosts.
Players use various ghost hunting equipment like EMF readers, spirit boxes, and UV flashlights. The game’s voice recognition system adds an extra layer of immersion, as ghosts can react to what you say.
What makes Phasmophobia stand out is how it creates genuine fear. The tension builds as you split up to place cameras or check rooms for ghost activity. Your heart will race when the lights flicker and doors slam shut.
The game offers different maps to explore, from small houses to larger locations like prisons and asylums. Each map presents new challenges and hiding spots to discover with friends.
Phasmophobia works best when playing with people who aren’t afraid to get scared. The fumbling through haunted buildings with friends creates moments of both terror and laughter.
The game doesn’t rely on jump scares alone. Instead, it builds a creepy mood that keeps players on edge. You’ll find yourself whispering to teammates even though the ghosts can’t hear you through your microphone.
Players need to work together to complete objectives and identify the ghost type correctly. This teamwork aspect makes every session unique and exciting.
Updates keep adding new ghost types, equipment, and maps. The developers listen to player feedback and regularly improve the game experience.
Phasmophobia has that special quality that keeps friends coming back. Even after many play sessions, the random ghost behavior ensures no two games feel the same.
For those who enjoy Phasmophobia, other games like White Noise 2 and Forsaken offer similar co-op horror experiences. The game has created its own niche in the co-op horror genre.
While not for the faint of heart, Phasmophobia provides some of the best shared scary moments you can have in gaming. Few games create stories you’ll still be talking about weeks later.
4. A Way Out
A Way Out is an exclusively co-op adventure that puts players in the shoes of two prisoners planning their escape. Unlike most games, it requires two players to experience the story – there’s no single-player option.
The game follows Leo and Vincent, two inmates who must work together to break out of prison. Their journey doesn’t end at the prison gates, as they continue their adventure while on the run from authorities.
What makes A Way Out special is its split-screen approach. Even when playing online, both players can always see what the other is doing. This creates unique gameplay situations where one player might be in a cutscene while the other maintains control of their character.
The cooperative gameplay mechanics are thoughtfully designed. Players must communicate and coordinate to solve puzzles, overcome obstacles, and progress through the story. Sometimes one player creates a distraction while the other sneaks past guards.
A handy feature of A Way Out is the Friends Pass. This means only one person needs to own the game, and they can invite a friend to play the entire game with them for free.
The game mixes various gameplay styles. Players will engage in driving sequences, stealth sections, and even some shooting segments. This variety keeps the 6-8 hour story fresh and engaging from start to finish.
The story itself has received praise for being engaging and fast-paced. While not perfect, the characters develop nicely throughout the story, and players often find themselves invested in the outcome.
A Way Out runs well on most modern computers. The graphics aren’t cutting-edge, but they serve the story well and create an immersive experience for both players.
For friends looking to play together, it’s easy to connect. The PC version allows players to team up online through the game’s friend invite system. The process is straightforward and gets players into the action quickly.
The ending has become somewhat famous among players. Without spoiling anything, it delivers an emotional punch that many don’t see coming.
5. Monster Hunter: World
Monster Hunter: World offers an exciting co-op experience for friends on PC. Players can team up to hunt massive monsters across beautiful, detailed landscapes.
The game lets you and up to three friends join forces in most quests. This makes difficult hunts much more manageable and fun as you coordinate attacks and strategies together.
Playing with friends adds a whole new layer to the hunting experience. Each player can choose different weapons, creating team combinations that work well together against tough monsters.
Communication is key when hunting as a group. Friends can call out monster attacks, healing opportunities, or when to use special abilities at the perfect moment.
The satisfaction of taking down a huge monster after a 20-minute battle alongside your friends creates unforgettable gaming moments. These shared victories make the time spent gathering resources and crafting gear worthwhile.
Monster Hunter: World includes a story mode that friends can tackle together. There are some limitations where players must watch cutscenes alone first, but afterward, the group can reunite.
The game offers hundreds of hours of content with friends. As your hunting party progresses, you’ll face increasingly difficult monsters that test your teamwork and skills.
Customization adds to the fun, letting each friend create unique characters and gear styles. Your hunting party will look distinctive while developing specialized roles based on weapon choices.
The PC version benefits from better graphics and frame rates than console versions. This creates a smoother experience when multiple players are fighting monsters with flashy effects everywhere.
Voice chat integration makes coordination simple. Whether using the game’s built-in system or a third-party program, staying in touch during intense hunts is essential.
Monster Hunter: World ranks high among co-op games in the franchise. The combination of accessible gameplay and deep systems keeps friend groups engaged for months.
6. Divinity: Original Sin 2
Divinity: Original Sin 2 stands out as one of the best co-op experiences available on PC. This fantasy RPG lets friends work together through an epic story filled with tough choices and exciting combat.
The game supports up to four players, making it perfect for group play. Each player can control their own character with unique abilities and backgrounds, creating a truly personal adventure.
What makes this game special is how players can interact with each other. Friends can agree or disagree on choices, with the game allowing for fun debates through its dialogue system.
Combat in Divinity is turn-based, giving players time to plan and work together. The magic system shines brightest in co-op, where players can combine spells for amazing effects. For example, rain plus lightning creates electrified water, while fire can turn oil into dangerous flames.
Many couples find Divinity: Original Sin 2 perfect for playing together. The shared problem-solving and story choices help build teamwork and communication.
The game offers over 100 hours of content, making it great value for friends looking for a long-term gaming project. Some players have treasured the experience of completing the full story with a friend.
Character creation lets each player build exactly the hero they want. From undead archers to lizard wizards, the options feel endless.
The world reacts differently based on each character’s race, skills, and background. This means four friends playing together will each have unique experiences even in the same scenes.
Players don’t need to stay together in-game. The party can split up to tackle different quests at the same time, making gameplay flexible.
Voice chat or being in the same room enhances the experience, as planning strategies and discussing choices adds to the fun. Few games match Divinity’s blend of deep story and cooperative gameplay.
7. Street Fighter 6
Street Fighter 6 offers a thrilling experience for friends who enjoy competitive gaming. Released in 2023, this fighting game brings fresh mechanics and stunning visuals to the long-running series.
When playing with friends, Street Fighter 6 is primarily about fighting against them in versus modes or custom rooms. The game doesn’t include co-op gameplay, so all multiplayer interactions are competitive.
Friends can meet up in the Battle Hub, a virtual arcade where players control avatars. Here, they can gather around arcade cabinets and watch each other play, just like in old-school arcades.
For newcomers, Street Fighter 6 is more welcoming than past games in the series. It includes a modern control scheme that makes special moves easier to perform, perfect for friends who are new to fighting games.
The Drive system adds depth for more experienced players. This new mechanic lets fighters perform special techniques and counters, creating exciting back-and-forth matches between friends who know the game well.
Many players consider Street Fighter 6 one of the best competitive multiplayer games available today. Its balance between accessibility and depth makes it enjoyable for casual gatherings and serious tournaments alike.
Custom matches let friends set specific rules. They can create tournaments, best-of-three sets, or just play for fun without worrying about rankings.
For local play, Street Fighter 6 supports multiple input devices. Friends can bring their own controllers, fight sticks, or use keyboard controls when playing on PC.
Some players have asked about team-based modes where friends could team up against others online, but this feature isn’t currently available in the game.
Street Fighter 6 consistently ranks among the best multiplayer games to play with friends in 2025. Its combination of accessible controls, deep gameplay, and vibrant presentation makes every match exciting.
8. Party Animals
Party Animals is a hilarious multiplayer game where players control cute, fuzzy creatures like puppies and kittens. The game focuses on physics-based combat and competition between friends.
The charm of Party Animals lies in its adorable characters and chaotic gameplay. Friends can grab, punch, and throw each other across colorful environments while trying to win various mini-games.
You can play with friends remotely or enjoy local multiplayer on the same screen. This flexibility makes it perfect for game nights whether your friends are in the same room or across the world.
The game features beautiful level designs and visually appealing graphics. The cute animal characters add to the light-hearted nature of the competitive gameplay.
Unlike many multiplayer games, Party Animals manages to stay fresh over time. Reviews suggest it won’t get boring or repetitive like other titles in the genre, making it a good long-term investment for friend groups.
The controls might take some getting used to at first. The physics-based movement system creates funny moments when characters flop around and struggle to complete simple tasks.
Party Animals has been compared to Fall Guys but with its own unique twist. The emphasis on direct combat between players adds a competitive edge that keeps matches exciting and unpredictable.
Available on PC and Xbox, Party Animals provides cross-platform play options. This makes it easier to get everyone together regardless of what system they own.
The game includes various modes and maps to keep the experience fresh. From team-based objectives to free-for-all battles, there’s enough variety to satisfy different playing styles.
For groups looking for a game that balances competition with humor, Party Animals delivers. The combination of cute characters and chaotic gameplay creates memorable gaming sessions that will have everyone laughing.
9. Counter-Strike 2
Counter-Strike 2 stands as one of the most beloved competitive shooters on PC. This team-based multiplayer game offers intense tactical gameplay that keeps friends coming back for more.
The game pits terrorists against counter-terrorists in fast-paced matches. Players can choose from various game modes including the classic bomb defusal and hostage rescue scenarios.
What makes Counter-Strike 2 perfect for friend groups is its emphasis on teamwork and strategy. Communication is key as you coordinate attacks and defenses with your teammates.
The learning curve might seem steep at first, but that’s part of the fun. You and your friends can grow together as you master the unique recoil patterns of different weapons.
For those new to the series, Counter-Strike 2 builds upon the foundation of its predecessor while adding improved graphics and mechanics. The game features realistic weapon handling and a high skill ceiling as noted in Pavlov Shack, a similar tactical shooter.
Friend groups looking for variety can enjoy traditional matches or try custom game modes. LAN parties are especially fun with modes like gungame, surf maps, and zombie scenarios.
The game’s round-based structure makes it easy to hop in and out between matches. Each round lasts only a couple of minutes, perfect for when you have limited gaming time with friends.
Economy management adds another layer of strategy. Your team must decide when to save money and when to splurge on better weapons, creating interesting team discussions.
Counter-Strike 2 consistently ranks among the best multiplayer games to play with friends in 2025. Its staying power comes from simple yet deep gameplay that rewards skill and teamwork.
The game runs well on most modern PCs, making it accessible for friend groups with varying computer setups. This low barrier to entry ensures everyone can join the fun.
Maps like Dust2, Mirage, and Inferno have become iconic gaming locations over the years. Learning these maps with friends creates shared experiences and inside jokes that last for years.
10. Overwatch 2
Overwatch 2 stands out as one of the most exciting team-based shooters for friends to enjoy together. The game offers fast-paced 5v5 battles with a diverse roster of heroes, each with unique abilities and play styles.
Playing with friends gives you a big advantage. Coordination and teamwork are key elements that can turn the tide of any match. You can create strategies around complementary hero abilities and support each other during intense firefights.
The game is free to play, making it easy for anyone to join your squad without spending money. This accessibility helps friend groups get together without financial barriers.
Overwatch 2’s cross-play system is particularly impressive. It creates separate console and PC pools for competitive fairness while still letting friends on different platforms team up. This smart design keeps the playing field level for everyone.
The game features several modes to enjoy. Quick Play lets you jump in for casual matches, while Competitive mode offers more intense gameplay for groups seeking a challenge. There are also seasonal events with unique game modes to keep things fresh.
Communication is smooth with built-in voice chat. This feature helps coordinate ultimate abilities and plan attacks, which feels incredibly satisfying when executed well with friends.
Regular updates keep the experience interesting. New heroes, maps, and balance changes arrive frequently, ensuring you and your friends always have something new to master.
The colorful art style and character personalities add charm to the experience. Each hero has their own backstory and unique voice lines that make matches more engaging and fun.
While it can get competitive, the game remains approachable for newcomers. The varied heroes mean everyone can find a character that matches their play style, whether they prefer supporting from the back lines or leading the charge.
Overwatch 2 consistently ranks among the top multiplayer games for friends looking for team-based action. Its combination of strategic depth and moment-to-moment excitement creates memorable gaming sessions that keep friend groups coming back for more.
Benefits of Playing PC Games with Friends
Playing games with friends on PC offers unique advantages that enrich both gaming experiences and personal relationships. The shared adventures create lasting memories while building valuable skills.
Strengthening Social Bonds
PC gaming creates special connections between friends even when they can’t meet in person. Online video games allow players to connect at their comfort level, making it easier for those who might struggle with in-person interactions.
Friends who game together develop inside jokes and shared experiences that strengthen their relationships. These digital adventures often become favorite stories they tell for years.
PC games offer various ways to play together:
- Cooperative campaigns: Working together toward common goals
- Competitive matches: Friendly rivalry that builds respect
- Creative sandbox games: Building and exploring together
Many gamers report that some of their closest friendships started through PC gaming communities. The shared interest creates an immediate connection that often grows beyond just gaming topics.
Enhancing Communication Skills
Gaming with friends requires clear communication, especially in team-based games where coordination is essential. Players develop the ability to give precise instructions quickly while under pressure.
Voice chat during gaming sessions helps friends practice:
- Speaking clearly and concisely
- Listening actively while multitasking
- Giving and receiving constructive feedback
These communication skills transfer to real-world situations like work projects and other team activities. The casual setting of games makes it easier to learn without the pressure of formal situations.
Playing games together also teaches friends how to resolve disagreements positively. When strategies fail or mistakes happen, players learn to address issues without damaging relationships.
Non-verbal communication improves too, as players learn to interpret teammates’ actions and respond appropriately without explicit instructions.
Technical Considerations for Multiplayer Gaming
Getting your gaming setup right can make or break your multiplayer experience. The right hardware and a stable internet connection are key to enjoying games with friends without frustrating interruptions.
System Requirements and Compatibility
When playing multiplayer games with friends, checking each game’s minimum and recommended system requirements is essential. Most modern multiplayer games need at least:
- 8GB RAM (16GB preferred)
- Mid-range graphics card
- Recent CPU (quad-core or better)
- 50+ GB free storage space
- Windows 10 or newer
Gaming laptops may need cooling pads to prevent overheating during long sessions. For cross-platform titles, make sure everyone can join regardless of their system. Some games offer reduced graphics settings that help older PCs run newer games smoothly.
It’s worth checking if your friends’ PCs can run the game before everyone buys it. Many game stores allow refunds if played less than 2 hours, which gives time to test performance.
Network and Connectivity Issues
A stable internet connection is crucial for seamless multiplayer gameplay. Wired connections (Ethernet) provide more stability than Wi-Fi. Players should aim for:
- Download speed: 10+ Mbps
- Upload speed: 3+ Mbps
- Ping: Under 100ms (lower is better)
Reducing network congestion helps prevent lag. Close background apps that use internet bandwidth and ask household members to limit streaming during gaming sessions.
Latency issues can ruin multiplayer experiences. Players should choose game servers closest to their location when possible. Some games show ping numbers next to server options – always pick the lowest.
Voice chat programs like Discord often work better than in-game chat. They use less bandwidth and stay connected even if the game crashes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many PC gamers have common questions about finding the right games to enjoy with friends. These answers cover everything from co-op adventures to free options and games that work across different devices.
What are highly recommended co-op games for PC?
Stardew Valley stands out as a top co-op choice where friends can build a farm together, explore mines, and attend festivals. The game supports up to four players online and offers hundreds of hours of content.
Project Zomboid gives friends a zombie survival experience with deep crafting and building systems. Players must work together to find food, build shelters, and fight off the undead.
Phasmophobia offers a scary ghost-hunting experience that’s best played with friends. Each player takes different equipment to identify ghost types while trying to stay alive.
Which free PC games offer the best multiplayer experience?
Fortnite remains popular with its battle royale mode and frequent updates. It’s completely free to play and runs well even on older computers.
Valorant provides a tactical shooter experience similar to Counter-Strike but with special character abilities. This team-based game is free and constantly updated with new content.
Apex Legends offers fast-paced battle royale action with unique characters and abilities. Its ping system makes communication easy even without voice chat.
Are there any fun PC games that support 2-player on one machine?
A Way Out is designed specifically for two players and requires split-screen play. This story-driven prison break adventure needs two controllers but provides a unique cooperative experience.
Cuphead works perfectly for two players sharing one keyboard or using controllers. This challenging run-and-gun game has beautiful hand-drawn animation and tough boss fights.
Overcooked 1 and 2 let two players cook together in increasingly chaotic kitchens. These games test communication and teamwork as players chop, cook, and serve meals.
What are some popular online multiplayer games for PC and mobile cross-play?
Among Us allows PC and mobile players to join the same games seamlessly. This social deduction game works well across platforms and needs minimal processing power.
Minecraft supports cross-play between PC and mobile devices with the Bedrock Edition. Friends can build and explore together regardless of their device.
Hearthstone brings card game fun to both PC and mobile with identical gameplay. Players can switch between devices while keeping all progress and collections.
What video games are best for playing with a group of friends online?
Monster Hunter: World lets up to four friends hunt massive creatures together. The game rewards teamwork with different weapon types complementing each other.
Sea of Thieves turns friends into pirate crews sailing the open seas. Groups can hunt treasure, battle skeleton ships, and engage in sea battles with other players.
Rust challenges groups to survive in a harsh open world where other players may help or hunt them. Building bases and gathering resources works better with friends watching your back.
How can I find multiplayer PC games that don’t require additional equipment?
Steam’s store has filter options specifically for multiplayer games that only need keyboards. Using these filters helps find games that work with standard equipment.
Browser-based games like Skribbl.io need only a computer with internet access. These drawing and guessing games work instantly without downloads or special equipment.
Discord game nights featuring games like Jackbox Party Pack need just one person to own the game. Other players can join through phones or browsers without buying anything themselves.
