2D graphics have a charm to them, whether they’re made with pixel art, vector graphics, or anything in between. Developers have quickly realized just how appealing they are for fans and that many might even seek them out over 3D games. This has led to games of almost every genre being created with 2D graphics.
What’s even better is that many have either developed their games with co-op in mind or retroactively added co-op as well. Whether players want a 2D couch co-op RPG or an intense online zombie simulator, there are plenty of options out there to scratch every itch.
What makesCastle Crashersgreat for co-op is the feeling of teaming up with a couple of friends and unleashing absolute chaos on waves of enemies while moving through an entertaining story. There are also plenty of opportunities for players to combat their friends after major fights, which always leads to absolute hilarity.
The hack-and-slash gameplay is simple, the art style is charming, and the humor is unique, not to mention the nostalgia for those who remember the days of Newgrounds. All of these elements makeCastle Crashersnot only one of the best co-op games on Steambut one of the best co-op games ever.
Project Zomboidis simplythe best zombie apocalypse simulationa group of gamers can ask for. Players create their characters with any number of classes and skills, then set forth to create their own story and survive in a brutal zombie apocalypse.
ExperiencingProject Zomboidwith a group of friends makes it so much more immersive and fun. Tough situations, where they must decide between risking their own neck, saving their friend, or driving away in the car with all the supplies, are what makeProjectZomboidone of the best 2D zombie games ever made.
Don’t Starve Togetherhas one of the most unique atmospheres in the survival game genre. There’s really no other game that can match the hopelessness ofDon’t Starve, especially at night. Even with friends, the game is difficult and players are likely to die over and over.
The quirky, gothic 2D art style of the gameis one of its main drawing points, and the co-op aspect works wonderfully for it because of its survival genre, which forces teamwork. Deciding who will head out to cut wood, who will go hunt food, and determining how the base should be built and what to focus on next is all just a part of the fun.
Vampire Survivorshas been making waves since it first became popular. The premise is very simple; continually blast as many enemies as possible while surviving in an infinite open world. The gameplay is also simple; run and attack.
Vampire Survivorshas only improved over the years and has quickly becomeone of the most fun local co-op games available. The pixel art style of the game is charmingly retro and fits the gameplay, and there are a ton of upgrade paths available after each run.Vampire Survivors’co-op is great because it’s one of those games players can simply throw on and have a really good time without thinking too much. Single-player is chaotic enough, so tossing in two players quickly becomes delightfully chaotic.
Broforceis an icon when it comes to 2D co-op games and made a huge impact on the genre when it was released. The game truly is timeless, and it does exactly what it set out to do with its gameplay and themes.
Players will not find anaction game with more engaging co-op gameplaythanBroforce. Broforceis a fantastic co-op experience because it lets players feel like they’re in an action movie as they mow down enemies and make their way through levels to leave in a freedom copter. It’s just one of those games where every moment is awesome and being able to share those awesome moments with a friend is what brings players so much joy.
Spiritfareris an absolutely beautiful game full of soul and will resonate well with players who enjoy management games and games that allow them to build relationships with lovely characters. The 2D art style and overall atmosphere are both very comfy.
WhileSpiritfareris a management game, it is also extremely relaxed and allows players to play at their own pace with absolutely nothing rushing them. Co-op is very relaxed and the stories in the game will drive the players to tears and build deep connections just by experiencing them together.
Stardew Valleyisone of the best farming simulators ever made, and there are a number of reasons for that. InStardew Valleyplayers can truly live life in a small town; farming, fishing, mining, or just simply getting to know everyone. From Pelican Town’s residents whom the player can meet and befriend, to the seasonal celebrations like Feast of the Winter Star, everything in the game feels alive.
Co-op inStardew Valleybrings the game to another level, especially on players' first playthrough. Both players will inhabit the same plot of farmland but will have their own houses. They can even marry one other instead of the romanceable NPCs in town. Plus, it encourages teamwork and common goals such as completing the Community Center (or siding with Joja), helping each other with crops, saving money for animals, and so on.
Terrariais an absolutemust-play for players who love pixel art graphics. Its 2D graphics do nothing to hold it back in terms of gameplay. There are NPCs to meet, bosses to fight, armor to craft, and so much more.
Terrariais a great co-op game because of its depth, versatility, and overall vibe. It’s so easy to sit back, chop down some trees, and build a base. On the other hand, hardcore players can also perform the rituals necessary to summon many bosses, explore dangerous underground caves, and experiment with infinite builds. There’s just always something for someone to do and so many goals groups can set for themselves that it never gets boring or feels repetitive.
