The Best PlayStation 5 Multiplayer Games

The PlayStation 3 certainly had its fair share of multiplayer games, but these games didn’t hit their stride until the PlayStation 4. Fortunately, multiplayer games are still popular now on PS5. With the system being so new, there are tons of great multiplayer games to try out – online, or local with a friend. If you’re considering getting a PS5, you’ve probably been wondering what kind of multiplayer games it has. There’s a lot out there, but we’ve created a list of the best multiplayer games on PS5 that everyone should try.

Top multiplayer games on PS5

Mortal Kombat 1

Genre: Fighting, Adventure

Developer: NetherRealm Studios

Publisher: WB Games

Release: September 19, 2023

Perhaps fighting games are more your jam. If so, you’ll be happy to know that Mortal Kombat 1 is yet another hit from the bloody franchise. Following the events of Mortal Kombat 11, this is a reboot of sorts so is easy for anyone to get into, though you’re likely more focused on the multiplayer than story mode anyway. In that regard, you have many characters to punch, kick, blast, and dismember your opponents with. This title also brings in assists to allow for even crazier combos and Fatalities. With a roadmap of new characters, including plenty of crossovers, to come, this is a fighting game you can safely invest in.

Baldur’s Gate 3

Genre: Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS), Tactical, Adventure

Developer: Larian Studios

Publisher: Larian Studios

Release: October 06, 2020

If you love the classic pen-and-paper tabletop RPGs of old, then Baldur’s Gate 3 will be your ideal game. Somehow, this game manages to allow for essentially any crazy, obtuse, and even game-breaking ideas you have to actually work. If that wasn’t impressive enough, the fact that you can play the game either on a split screen or online almost feels like real magic. You can both create new characters to go on this epic adventure. Or you can split up and each does your own thing on opposite ends of the map. You’re free to role-play however you want, and the world, characters, and mechanics make every second a blast.

Destiny 2

Genre: Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Tactical, Adventure

Developer: Bungie

Publisher: Activision

Release: September 06, 2017

There’s never been a better time to dive into Destiny 2, a game that has come a long way since its launch in 2017. It’s even better on PS5, running at 4K resolution at 60 frames per second. While you can definitely play Destiny 2 solo, much of it is designed with multiplayer in mind — whether you join friends to take on a raid or fight against them in the game’s PvP mode, The Crucible. Destiny 2’s greatest selling point is its gameplay loop, which constantly encourages you to grind to collect more loot.

Beyond that, it simply feels incredible — we’d expect nothing less from Bungie, the creators of Halo. While it was available for $60 at launch, it has since been converted to a free-to-play game, with paid expansions available periodically. But that means you can dive in and try it out without spending a dime.

Borderlands 3

Genre: Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Adventure

Developer: Gearbox Software

Publisher: 2K Games

Release: March 25, 2022

The famous loot-based first-person shooter (or looter shooter, as it’s sometimes called) has made its way to next-gen, giving you more reasons than one to jump back into Borderlands 3 on PS5. For starters, those who own the PS4 version will gain access to the game on PS5 for free. The next-gen version will feature up to four-player split-screen cooperative gameplay, 4K visuals at 60 frames per second in single-player or online multiplayer modes, and all the latest updates. Speaking of which, Borderlands 3 has received multiple content drops since its release last year, so you’ll have no shortage of things to do when you jump in on PS5.

As with many games, Borderlands 3 is best experienced with friends, and, thankfully, there are multiple options for doing so. There’s something so immensely satisfying about running around the open world with your buddies on the quest for loot, and Borderlands 3 surely delivers on that front.

It Takes Two

Genre: Platform, Adventure

Developer: Hazelight Studios

Publisher: Electronic Arts

Release: March 25, 2021

Serving as one of the most inventive cooperative games of the past decade, It Takes Two is not playable solo. Designed with co-op multiplayer in mind, this is a game about two parents who are on the brink of divorce. While the story itself might leave a little to be desired, the gameplay is outstanding, offering smart puzzles and obstacles that must be overcome through jolly cooperation. The setpieces are wild, the gameplay is varied, and the sheer imaginative design is unlike anything we’ve seen in recent memory. This game is true to its name, too, as it drives home the idea of working together.

This theme is presented in the gameplay, as well as in the story, as the two still have to be there for their daughter. The best thing is that you only need one copy to play — each one comes with a pass so you can enjoy it with a friend without having to purchase two.

The Division 2

Genre: Shooter, RPG

Developer: Massive Entertainment

Publisher: Ubisoft

Release: March 15, 2019

If you’re into tactical shooters with deep RPG elements, “Tom Clancy’s The Division 2” offers a robust multiplayer experience. Set in a post-pandemic Washington D.C., you and your squad of agents must work together to restore order and take on challenging missions. The game features various player-vs-environment (PvE) and player-vs-player (PvP) modes, offering a diverse multiplayer experience in a detailed open-world setting.

Splitgate: Arena Warfare

Genre: First-Person Shooter

Developer: 1047 Games

Publisher: 1047 Games

Release: July 27, 2021

“Splitgate: Arena Warfare” is a unique blend of fast-paced shooting and portal-based mechanics. Players can create portals in the environment, allowing for creative strategies and mobility. The game offers both casual and competitive modes, making it accessible to different types of players. With its familiar yet innovative gameplay, “Splitgate” can provide hours of multiplayer fun.

Hood: Outlaws & Legends

Genre: Action, Stealth, Multiplayer

Developer: Sumo Newcastle

Publisher: Focus Home Interactive

Release: May 10, 2021

“Hood: Outlaws & Legends” is a multiplayer-focused game that pits teams of players against each other in medieval heists. You’ll need to use stealth, coordination, and strategy to outsmart your opponents and steal valuable treasures. With its medieval setting and intense team-based gameplay, it’s a unique multiplayer experience that rewards both cunning and teamwork.

Guilty Gear Strive

Genre: Fighting

Developer: Arc System Works

Publisher: Arc System Works

Release: June 11, 2021

For fans of fighting games, “Guilty Gear Strive” offers a visually stunning and mechanically deep multiplayer experience. Engage in high-speed battles with a diverse roster of characters, each with unique abilities and playstyles. Whether you’re competing against friends locally or testing your skills online, “Guilty Gear Strive” provides exciting and competitive multiplayer action.

Elden Ring

Genre: Role-playing (RPG), Adventure

Developer: FromSoftware

Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment, FromSoftware

Release: February 25, 2022

One of 2022’s best games is Elden Ring, a massive action RPG that will no doubt test your skills. While it’s best known for its fluid gameplay, satisfying progression system, and epic battles, the game also includes a robust multiplayer mode. It offers a cooperative mode that allows players to take down the game’s bosses. But if you’d rather go against your friends, you might enjoy PvP mode.

LittleBigPlanet 3

Genre: Platformer, Puzzle, Adventure

Developer: Sumo Digital, XDev

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

Release: November 18, 2014

The “LittleBigPlanet” series has always been known for its charming platforming and robust level creation tools. “LittleBigPlanet 3” takes the cooperative platforming fun to a new level with the introduction of new characters, each with unique abilities. You and your friends can team up to tackle puzzles, challenges, and user-created levels in this delightful and customizable world.

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

Genre: Action-Adventure

Developer: Insomniac Games

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Release: June 11, 2021

While “Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart” is primarily a single-player game, it offers a unique cooperative feature that allows a second player to join in and assist the primary player. This cooperative mode enhances the gameplay experience by enabling teamwork to conquer various challenges. Explore colourful worlds, wield an arsenal of inventive weapons, and traverse through dimensional rifts together with a friend in this action-packed adventure.

Apex Legends

Genre: Shooter

Developer: Respawn Entertainment

Publisher: Electronic Arts

Release: February 04, 2019

Maybe you’d like to try a battle royale that doesn’t include a building system like Fortnite. Perhaps you might like Apex Legends, a battle royale that blends class-based characters with the popular last-person-standing formula. Each character or “legend” has their own identity, and it shines through, not just in gameplay, but in story and lore as well. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another FPS game that feels and plays as fluidly as Apex Legends.

In fact, this game is based in the Titanfall universe, and with that in mind, you can clearly see the connections (though you won’t find any Titans in Apex Legends). It’s a game that continues to evolve over time, and we’re excited to see how it changes with each update. Best of all is that it’s free!

Puyo Puyo Tetris 2

Genre: Puzzle, Arcade

Developer: Sega

Publisher: SEGA of America, Sega, Sega Europe

Release: December 07, 2020

There isn’t much like Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 on this list. As its name suggests, it’s a mashup of the beloved Puyo Puyo and Tetris that doesn’t seem like it should work — but it does. In this sequel, you can play offline or online with your friends, across various modes. It’s just as quirky and lighthearted as the first game, blending together the iconic puzzlers fans know and love.

Although you probably won’t be playing for its story, you’ll be happy to know it has a lovable cast of well-written characters that appear in between (and during) matches, so you have that to look forward to, as well. But above all else, this game is a masterclass in gameplay. Whether you’re playing Tetris, Puyo Puyo, or both at the same time, you’ll likely have a blast with this puzzle game — and more so online.

Rocket League

Genre: Racing, Sport, Indie

Developer: Psyonix

Publisher: Psyonix

Release: July 07, 2015

Rocket League is yet another free-to-play game that has captivated its audience thanks to its tight gameplay and satisfying loop. The premise? Soccer with cars. And if that sounds absolutely bonkers, it is. What’s great about Rocket League is that it appeals to the general player since it’s so easy to pick up and play. It’s got an easy concept to grasp: Put the ball through the goal. However, things get out of hand since steering your car while pushing a ball isn’t as easy as it seems. Still, it’s something you can quickly get the hang of after a few games.

Skilled competitors will also find value in it, as matches can get heated very quickly, especially if the contestants are of equal experience levels. Beyond that, you can earn in-game currency to spend on what feels like thousands of different cosmetics, giving you even more reason to keep playing. It’s a game that you can quickly jump into and play a few rounds before bed, making it super appealing to a wide install base.

Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker

Genre: Role-playing (RPG), Adventure

Developer: Square Enix

Publisher: Square Enix

Release: December 07, 2021

Is there a comeback story better than Final Fantasy XIV? When the game first launched in 2010, it was in terrible shape, but following 2013’s A Realm Reborn expansion, things started to turn around. Now, following the launch of the Endwalker expansion, Final Fantasy XIV is one of the highest-rated MMORPGs of all time. In fact, the game has become so popular that Square Enix had to temporarily stop all sales of new copies to help prevent the servers from being overloaded over the 2021 holiday season.

Critics and fans have praised Final Fantasy XIV’s gameplay, progression, and story, with each expansion improving upon nearly all aspects of the game. After the launch of Endwalker, it was revealed that Final Fantasy XIV has over 24 million registered users, making it one of the most successful MMOs of all time.

Back 4 Blood

Genre: Shooter

Developer: Turtle Rock Studios

Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment

Release: October 12, 2021

Back in the Xbox 360 era, a little game called Left 4 Dead captivated a wide audience. A sequel launched in 2009, but since then, fans have been starving for a cooperative zombie shooter. While Valve shows no signs of developing a sequel, Back 4 Blood from Turtle Rock Studios is the next best thing. It has all the DNA of a Left 4 Dead game, with funny characters, fun shooting, and hordes of zombies to overcome across various stages.

The cool thing about Back 4 Blood is its card system, which allows you to build decks that give your character special enhancements like health boosts. You can play this game solo, but the real fun comes with enjoying it with friends, especially on harder difficulties. There’s something so satisfying about watching your teammates’ backs while joining forces to take down powerful enemies.

WWE 2K22

Genre: Fighting, Simulator, Sport

Developer: Visual Concepts

Publisher: 2K Sports

Release: March 11, 2022

After taking a year off and changing lead developers from Yuke’s to Visual Concepts, WWE 2K22 had a lot riding on its success. And thankfully, it was a great return to the series, with fewer bugs than previous instalments, a fantastic roster, and some of the best visuals and animations the series has ever had. The coolest thing about this game is the Rey Mysterio showcase mode, which allows you to relive many of the high flyer’s most iconic matches — down to the exact spots that occurred within them.

Beyond that, the redefined control scheme is simultaneously easier for newcomers to learn, while still feeling challenging for expert players to master. There’s also a major multiplayer component, with competitive battles online, the ability to create and share superstars, and even the ability to play myFACTION mode with others. If you’re a pro wrestling fan but have skipped recent entries, this one could be enough to bring you back.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II

Genre: Shooter

Developer: Infinity Ward

Publisher: Activision Blizzard

Release: October 28, 2022

Most Call of Duty games are fun solo, but they’re even better with friends. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II is no exception, as it features a slew of multiplayer maps and modes to enjoy. Fast-paced players can duke it out in Kill Confirmed while those wanting to take it slow can play Search and Destroy. If competitive multiplayer isn’t your thing, you might enjoy the Spec Ops mode, a cooperative experience designed for players wanting a bit more linearity. But whichever mode you prefer, there’s likely something for you in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II.

Overwatch 2

Genre: Shooter

Developer: Blizzard Entertainment

Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment

Release: October 04, 2022

Serving as a major change from its predecessor, Overwatch 2 introduces new mechanics that keep things fresh. This free-to-play sequel has a tremendous roster of over 35 characters, each with unique move sets and abilities. In this game, team sizes are only five instead of six, making each member far more valuable than before. It’s still just as fast-paced as the first game, but with many quality-of-life improvements such as a refined pinging system. Overall, this game is a blast, despite having a few wrinkles that need to be ironed out.

Godfall

Genre: Role-playing (RPG), Adventure

Developer: Counterplay Games

Publisher: Gearbox Publishing

Release: November 12, 2020

Godfall on PS5 certainly isn’t the best reason to get a PS5, but despite its flaws, it’s a fun action game when played with friends. Referred to as a “looter-slasher,” Godfall takes the familiar loot-based mechanics popularized by Diablo, Borderlands, and Destiny and mixes in some fun, fluid melee combat. You can play in groups of three while taking down enemies, bosses, and, of course, gathering loot. A healthy mixture of light and heavy attacks with a simple yet effective parry system helps to make Godfall feel great, even if it’s a tad repetitive at times.

It’s ever-so-satisfying to see those numbers go up when you find new gear, and that’s what makes this game fun. Just ignore the bland story, reused level design, and mission structure, and you’ll have a good time — more so with friends.

Fortnite

Genre: Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Strategy

Developer: Epic Games

Publisher: Epic Games

Release: July 25, 2017

Whether you love it or hate it, you can’t deny the importance of Fortnite, and on PS5, it will be playable in 4K at up to 60 fps across all game modes. You’ll also find better textures and improved performance thanks to the PS5’s solid-state drive — whether you play online or in split-screen multiplayer. Fortnite is one of those comfort food games that always feels great to jump back into. You don’t always need to stay on top of the latest updates to have fun, but if you do, you’ll be rewarded handsomely.

It’s a great game to boot up, play a couple of matches with friends, and then move on to something else. Even if you don’t secure a victory, it’s still a load of fun to see how long you and your squad can survive. Plus, it’s free, so there isn’t much of a downside to downloading it.

No Man’s Sky

Genre: Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Simulator, Adventure, Indie

Developer: Hello Games

Publisher: Hello Games, 505 Games, Sony Interactive Entertainment

Release: August 09, 2016

You’ve probably seen us praise No Man’s Sky ad nauseam, but the PS5 version, titled The Next Generation, is worthy of even more praise. The next-gen version features more assets spread out across the terrain to make for a thicker, more realistic-looking environment, the ability to build larger bases, cross-play, transferrable saves, 4K visuals at 60 fps, and most importantly, 32-player multiplayer. The large-scale multiplayer functionality is huge, making No Man’s Sky feel even more populated than ever before. To be frank, there isn’t anything like No Man’s Sky.

Being able to explore 18 quintillion (that’s 18 with 18 more zeroes after it) procedurally generated planets that mostly feel unique is a wild experience — whether you play solo or with friends. But really, you’ll probably have a better time if you’ve got some buddies to help you stay safe from the harsh, hazardous weather found on many planets you’ll come across. The PS5 upgrade is free to all who own the PS4 game. No Man’s Sky goes beyond an open-world game — it’s an open-universe adventure, instead!

Overcooked! All You Can Eat

Genre: Simulator, Strategy, Indie

Developer: Team17, Ghost Town Games

Publisher: Team17

Release: November 12, 2020

Games like Mario Party and Monopoly always have been known for destroying friendships, but those pale in comparison to Overcooked! All You Can Eat. This definitive version of Overcooked! features both games and all their DLC, along with new content, such as 4K visuals, updated accessibility options, and cross-platform play. This package is ripe with content and is great for the whole family — provided you don’t kill each other in the process. Overcooked! All You Can Eat is a game about — wait for it — cooking.

In it, you need to effectively prepare and serve orders while making sure they’re made accurately. You can play it with up to three other players in local multiplayer and online modes. It’s a cooking game that will likely make you laugh throughout, even if you’re losing because it’s so much chaotic fun.

Sackboy: A Big Adventure

Genre: Platform, Adventure

Developer: Sumo Digital

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Release: November 12, 2020

If you’d like a family-friendly game that’s less chaotic but still playable in co-op, then you should check out Sackboy: A Big Adventure. Built on the foundation of LittleBig Planet, Sackboy: A Big Adventure is a 3D platformer, similar to the beloved Mario games. It features gorgeous, vibrant visuals, light puzzles, and all the quirkiness you could hope for.

Demon’s Souls

Genre: Role-playing (RPG), Hack and slash/Beat ’em up

Developer: Bluepoint Games

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Release: November 12, 2020

Demon’s Souls might not be the first game people think about when talking about multiplayer, but online play is at this game’s core. Playing Demon’s Souls is most enjoyable when taking advantage of multiplayer. You’ll be invaded by enemy players, get help from friends, and utilize the community to manipulate the game’s World Tendency. And trust us, you’re going to need the help when it’s time to take on the game’s toughest bosses.

These are just a few of the multiplayer games available on the PlayStation 5, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you enjoy cooperative adventures, intense shooters, or competitive fighting games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on Sony’s latest console.