Best Multiplayer PS5 Games in 2025

The PlayStation 5 has matured into a multiplayer powerhouse, connecting friends and families across the globe – and on the couch – like never before. The multiplayer PS5 library in 2025 spans everything from intense online showdowns to cooperative adventures perfect for parties or date nights. Even seasoned solo gamers are finding it hard to resist the pull of teaming up or squaring off against others, especially with so many critically acclaimed titles and thriving communities available. Whether you’re chasing high-stakes glory in competitive arenas, tackling couch co-op quests with loved ones, or exploring creative sandboxes together, the PS5 offers something for everyone. Before diving into our category picks, check out these quick highlights.

We've handpicked the best multiplayer PS5 games across genres, platforms, and player types—competitive warriors, cozy co-op couples, party animals, and yes, even the friend who still refuses to get PS Plus.

This article is part of our ultimate game recommendations guide:

Ultimate Game Recommendations Guide 2025

Discover the best games of 2025 for every mood, genre, and platform. Expertly curated picks feature essential game details and insights for solo, multiplayer, family-friendly, relaxing, and upcoming titles.

By Games Genie

May 2025

15 min read

TL;DR – Top Multiplayer PS5 Picks at a Glance

Don't have time to read the entire article? No problem, we summarized our findings in the table below:

✅ = No PS Plus needed for online play.

How We Picked These Games

To ensure our recommendations genuinely represent the best multiplayer experiences on PS5, we've crafted this weighted selection methodology:

This weighted approach ensures our selections balance technical excellence, player satisfaction, and overall fun—giving you the definitive guide to PS5 multiplayer gaming in 2025.

Top Competitive Online PS5 Games 2025

Ready to test your skills against the very best? These top competitive online games for PS5 in 2025 deliver adrenaline-pumping action, intense matches, and endless opportunities to climb the ranks.

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Cover image of Warzone 2.0

Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0

• Metacritic Score: 79

• Release Date: November 16, 2022

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: No | Max Online Players: 150+

• Community: Still sees tens of thousands of concurrent players daily, with a large, loyal base supported by regular seasonal content.

This free-to-play battle royale shooter brings Call of Duty’s tight gunplay to massive 150-player arenas. Warzone 2 on PS5 boasts enhanced 4K visuals and faster load-times, dropping you into Al Mazrah or Vondel maps in seconds. Thanks to cross-play, you’ll battle alongside and against PC and Xbox players seamlessly. The player base is huge – the COD series hit 100 million Warzone players within its first year - ensuring matches are always full. For fans of traditional multiplayer, Modern Warfare II/III multiplayer (which PS5 runs at 120fps) is a great complement, featuring classic 6v6 and Ground War modes (PS Plus required for those). Few games scratch the competitive itch like CoD, whether you’re grinding battle passes or clutching the final circle with your squad.

Fortnite

• Metacritic Score: 81

• Release Date: September 26, 2017 (Battle Royale mode)

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: No | Max Online Players: 100

• Community: Over 110 million monthly players and 650+ million accounts make Fortnite one of the most-played games worldwide.

Epic’s battle royale phenomenon remains one of the most-played games in the world, now optimized for PS5. Build-shoot survival gameplay blended with constant updates keeps it fresh. Fortnite is fully cross-platform, meaning PS5 users can squad up with friends on PC, Xbox, Switch, even mobile. It’s free-to-play (no PS Plus needed) yet has earned over 400 million registered players and about 30 million daily players as of 2024. With an ever-evolving metaverse of modes and big-name crossovers, Fortnite offers endless competitive fun.

Street Fighter 6

• Metacritic Score: 93

• Release Date: June 2, 2023

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Versus: Yes | Max Online Players: 2 (1v1 ranked)

• Community: With 5+ million copies sold and an active competitive scene, SF6 maintains a strong global player base across platforms.

The king of fighters is back and better than ever. Street Fighter 6 arrived in 2023 to rave reviews and reinvigorated the fighting game community. It’s surprisingly friendly to newcomers – featuring an optional Modern control scheme – yet deep enough to satisfy pros on the tournament circuit. PS5 players enjoy nearly lag-free online matches thanks to robust netcode, and yes, SF6 supports full cross-play with PC and Xbox so the online competition is fierce. Whether dueling friends on the couch or climbing ranked leagues online, this game delivers fast, technical 1v1 combat with iconic characters and gorgeous graphics.

The Finals

• Metacritic Score: 85

• Release Date: December 7, 2023 (PS5, PC, Xbox); PS4 in December 2024

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: No | Max Online Players: 12

• Community: Peaks fluctuate around 20k–200k players, but strong seasonal updates and cross-play help sustain engagement.

Another under-the-radar pick, The Finals is a chaotic online FPS where everything is destructible. This game-show-themed shooter (by ex-Battlefield devs) dropped as a surprise free-to-play hit in late 2023, and maintains a steady player base in 2025. Teams of three compete to grab cash from vaults in arenas that you can literally blow to pieces – walls crumble, buildings collapse, and the dynamic destruction means no two matches feel the same. It’s fast, frenetic, and best played with friends coordinating over voice chat. The Finals supports cross-play and has quick matchmaking, making it easy to jump in for a few rounds. If you enjoy innovative shooters like Battlefield or Apex but want something more offbeat (and free), give this one a shot.

If you are interested in local multiplayer gaming, you should also check out our LAN-games recommendations:

LAN Party Games: Best Titles for Local Multiplayer Gaming (2025)

Discover the best LAN party games for local multiplayer in 2025. From tactical shooters to party chaos, here’s what to play with friends in the same room.

By Games Genie

June 2025

10 min read

Best Couch Co-Op & Local Multiplayer PS5 Games

Grab some controllers, snacks, and your favorite people—these are the best local multiplayer games for PS5 in 2025. Perfect for game nights, they guarantee laughter, friendly competition, and unforgettable moments.

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Gameplay screenshot of Overcooked 2!

Overcooked! All You Can Eat

• Metacritic Score: 84

• Release Date: November 12, 2020 (PS5)

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes (online) | Local Co‑op: Yes (up to 4 players)

• Community: A staple in the party game genre with strong word-of-mouth, especially popular for couch co-op sessions.

I can't recall how many heated discussion I had with friends over yet another failed level.

A zany couch co-op cooking game that’s equal parts chaos and comedy. Overcooked has you and your friends frantically chop, cook, and serve dishes in absurd kitchens (on moving trucks, lava pools – you name it). “All You Can Eat” is a PS5 remaster bundling Overcooked 1 & 2 with extra levels, 4K visuals, and even online cross-play support. Up to 4 players can play local co-op (no PS Plus needed for local). It’s simple to pick up yet devilishly hard to master as teamwork and timing are key – expect shouting and laughter in equal measure. Notably, two players can even share one controller in Overcooked if you’re short on gamepads, though things might get… cozy. If you enjoy party chaos like Mario Party, this is a must-play that will test your communication skills (and your relationships!).

It Takes Two

• Metacritic Score: 88

• Release Date: March 25, 2021

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: Yes (split-screen and online) | Max Players: 2

• Community: Over 20 million copies sold; praised as one of the best co-op games ever with consistently high user satisfaction.

The co-op adventure so good it won Game of the Year 2021. Designed exclusively for two-player co-op, It Takes Two is a heartfelt platforming journey about a bickering couple turned into dolls. You’ll solve puzzles and conquer clever levels together, from a shed full of living tools to a magical snow globe world. The gameplay constantly surprises you with new mechanics (one level plays like a Diablo-style RPG, another like a fighting game). Critics adored it – It Takes Two sits around 88/100 on Metacritic and has garnered universal praise for its creativity and emotional story. On PS5 it runs at 60fps and free Friend Pass means a friend on PS4 or PS5 can play online co-op with you even if they don’t own the game. Naturally, it’s perfect for couples (more on that below), but any two players will find it an absolute delight in local split-screen. (For another great two-player adventure by the same studio, try A Way Out – a co-op crime escape story.)

TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge

• Metacritic Score: 85

• Release Date: June 16, 2022

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: Yes (up to 6 players) | Online Co‑op: Yes

• Community: A hit with retro and modern audiences alike, it remains a go-to for casual brawler fun in local multiplayer setups.

Cowabunga! This retro-styled beat ’em up brings back 1990s arcade brawling in a big way. Up to 6 players can team up locally (or online) as the turtles and friends, fighting through colorful pixel-art levels packed with Foot Clan ninjas. Shredder’s Revenge is accessible button-mashing fun for all ages, but also offers depth with combos and teamwork moves for hardcore arcade fans. It’s a fantastic pick for family game nights or any group that grew up loving TMNT. The PS5 version loads stages near-instantly and maintains silky performance even with six chaotic players. With its upbeat nostalgic soundtrack and comic-book visuals, this game will make your living room feel like a lively arcade. (For more brawler action, Streets of Rage 4 and the Scott Pilgrim game are also on PS4/PS5 for 4-player local combat.)

Sackboy: a big adventure

• Metacritic Score: 79

• Release Date: November 12, 2020

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes (PS4/PS5) | Local Co‑op: Yes (up to 4 players) | Online Co‑op: Yes

• Community: Especially popular with families and younger players, known for its charming visuals and lighthearted 3D platforming

A charming 4-player platformer set in the LittleBigPlanet universe, Sackboy is ideal for families and casual play. Each player controls a cute sack-person running and jumping through crafty, hand-stitched worlds. The levels are imaginative and often teamwork-oriented – you’ll pull objects to create platforms for others, or compete to grab the most collectibles. It’s kid-friendly (whimsical visuals and no real violence) but enjoyable for adults too, especially if you have nostalgia for platformers. Sackboy supports up to 4 players locally; if playing online, PS5 and PS4 users can join up across generations. While it doesn’t have the level-creation of classic LittleBigPlanet, it makes up for it with polished 3D gameplay and even some musical stages that sync actions to pop songs. This is co-op comfort food on PS5 – easy to jump into and guaranteed to produce smiles (and the occasional good-natured shove when someone steals your bubbles).

Gang Beasts

• Metacritic Score: 68

• Release Date: December 12, 2017 (PS4); October 12, 2021 (PS5)

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: No | Local Co‑op: Yes (up to 4 players) | Online Co‑op: Yes

• Community: A cult favorite for chaotic local multiplayer; continues to be a party-night classic despite its age.

Lesser-known pick: Gang Beasts is a goofy physics-based brawler perfect for parties. Each player controls a wobbly gelatinous fighter in ridiculous arenas (like a wrestling ring or speeding trucks), trying to punch, grab, and throw the others to their doom. The controls are intentionally awkward, leading to hilarious slapstick moments – imagine four drunk jellybeans flailing and you get the idea. On PS5, Gang Beasts runs better than ever and is a guaranteed laugh generator for 2-4 local players (or online). No complex objectives, no story – just pure sandbox fighting chaos that’s surprisingly fun with the right crowd. It’s one of those indie titles that’s perfect for breaking the ice or ending a game night with laughter. (For a similar quirky local game, check out Human: Fall Flat, where you cooperatively solve puzzles as wobbly ragdolls.)

Best Family & Kid-Friendly PS5 Multiplayer Games

Looking for multiplayer games the whole family can enjoy? These kid-friendly PS5 titles deliver accessible gameplay, fun challenges, and wholesome experiences everyone will love.

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Screenshot from Minecraft

Minecraft

• Metacritic Score: 93 (PS5 version)

• Release Date: October 22, 2024

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: Varies by mode | Max Players: Unlimited (server-dependent)

• Community: One of the most-played games globally, with an estimated 8.5 million daily users across platforms.

The ultimate sandbox game continues to be hugely popular with kids and teens (and plenty of adults!). Minecraft on PS5 (via the Bedrock Edition for PS4) lets up to 4 players play split-screen on one console, or join online worlds with friends on PC, mobile or Xbox thanks to cross-play. In Creative Mode, kids can unleash their imagination building anything from rollercoasters to recreations of their school – it’s like digital LEGO with infinite pieces. In Survival Mode, you team up to explore, mine resources, battle blocky monsters, and build safe shelters. The active player base exceeds 170 million monthly globally (as of 2023) and it’s often cited as one of the best family-friendly games ever. Just be prepared: you might start a “quick” session with the little ones and end up spending hours on a collaborative building project – it’s that absorbing. (No PS Plus is needed for split-screen play; for online multiplayer in paid games like Minecraft, a PS Plus subscription is required.)

If you are interested in games that also run wel on more modest hardware, you should check out this article on our top 10 co-op games for low-end laptops.

Roblox

• Metacritic Score: Not yet rated on Metacritic for PS5

• Release Date: October 10, 2023

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: N/A | Max Players: Varies by experience

• Community: Around 109 million monthly active users as of mid‑2025, with strong console adoption since its PS5 release.

A fairly new arrival to PlayStation, Roblox finally hit PS5 and PS4 in October 2023, bringing its vast universe of kid-created games to the console world. Roblox isn’t a single game but rather a platform hosting millions of mini-games (obstacle courses, virtual hangouts, shooters, role-play scenarios – you name it) made by the community. It’s free-to-play and supports full cross-play, meaning your child can play on PS5 with friends who are on PC or mobile seamlessly. That said, it remains one of the most popular family-friendly online experiences, with over 200 million monthly players across platforms. On PS5 it runs smoothly and loads games faster than ever. If you have kids in the house, there’s a good chance Roblox is already on their radar – and now they can enjoy it from the comfort of the big screen.

Rocket League

• Metacritic Score: 85 (PS4 version, applies to PS5 via upgrade)

• Release Date: July 2015 (free-to-play since September 2020)

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: 1v1–4v4 split-screen | Max Online Players: 8

• Community: Popular across all age groups, Rocket League maintains high daily engagement in both casual and competitive multiplayer.

One of those games that I just cant stop playing. “Soccer with cars” sounds simple, but Rocket League’s addictive action has made it a favorite among both serious competitive gamers and younger players. Its E for Everyone rating and easy concept (drive, boost, hit the giant ball into the goal) make it great for kids and family tourneys. Two to four players can play split-screen on PS5, or jump online (with cross-play against every platform) for wider competition. The skill ceiling is high – you’ll see pros pull off jaw-dropping aerial shots – but beginner matches with family often devolve into hilarious clusters of cars chasing the ball, which is part of the fun. Rocket League went free-to-play, so no PS Plus is needed to play online. It’s also one of the best optimized games on PS5, running at 120fps for super smooth gameplay. Fun fact: at its peak, 100 million players hopped on in a single month after the F2P switch – a testament to its enduring appeal. If the kids love sports or racing games (or if you do), Rocket League is a must-have multiplayer title.

Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

• Metacritic Score: 82 (PS5 version)

• Release Date: April 5, 2022

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: No | Local Co‑op: Yes (2-player split-screen) | Max Players: 2

• Community: A hit with families and Star Wars fans, praised for its accessible co-op gameplay and polished presentation.

The LEGO games have long been a go-to for family co-op, and the Skywalker Saga is the biggest and best yet. It humorously adapts all 9 Star Wars films into a sprawling adventure with drop-in/drop-out 2-player co-op. That means a parent and child (or any duo) can explore iconic scenes like the Battle of Hoth or podracing on Tatooine together, smashing enemies into LEGO bits and solving light puzzles. The gameplay is very kid-friendly – unlimited lives, simple controls – yet collecting all the secrets will keep completionists busy for dozens of hours. PS5 benefits: dynamic 4K visuals, fast-travel across planets with almost no loading, and a solid frame rate even in huge battles. There’s no online mode, but local co-op is really where LEGO games shine as a family activity. If Star Wars isn’t your thing, consider LEGO Marvel Super Heroes or LEGO Harry Potter Collection, also available on PS4 and playable on PS5. These games’ mix of gentle challenge, humor, and cooperation is a perfect recipe for family bonding.

Moving Out

• Metacritic Score: 80 (PS4 version; PS5 via backward compatibility)

• Release Date: April 28, 2020

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: No (PS4 BC) | Cross‑Play: No | Local Co‑op: Yes (up to 4 players) | Online Co‑op: No | Max Players: 4

• Community: A lighthearted party game that remains a staple for local multiplayer fun due to its chaotic physics and cooperative gameplay.

Lesser-known family pick: If you enjoyed Overcooked’s chaos, Moving Out takes a similar approach to the furniture moving business. Up to 4 players cooperate locally to move couches, beds, and bizarre items out of houses within a time limit – often by throwing them out of windows in wacky physics-defying ways. It’s utterly silly and induces a lot of laughter (and maybe some shouting of “pivot! pivot!” as you and a partner try to angle a sofa through a doorway). The game is easy for kids to grasp – grab item, avoid obstacles, toss on the truck – and each level introduces funny new twists (like haunted furniture that moves on its own). There’s even an assist mode to slow time or lighten objects if younger players need a hand. Moving Out is available on PS4 (backward compatible on PS5) and provides a light-hearted, teamwork-oriented good time for all ages. It’s an “under the radar” title that often surprises families with how enjoyable it is, especially if you like cooperative challenges but want something non-violent and whimsical.

Best PS5 Two-player Games for Couples

Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or seeking cooperative adventures, these top two-player PS5 games for couples in 2025 offer memorable bonding experiences filled with teamwork and charm.

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Stardew Valley gameplay screenshot

It Takes Two (Again. Yes. It’s that good.)

• Metacritic Score: 88

• Release Date: March 25, 2021

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: Yes (split-screen and online) | Max Players: 2

• Community: Over 20 million copies sold; praised as one of the best co-op games ever with consistently high user satisfaction.

Everything you want from co-op in one joyful, bizarre, emotional adventure. If you haven’t played it yet, do it. To this day this game is the only game I ever played with my wife that she actually enjoyed.

Stardew Valley

• Metacritic Score: 86 (PS4/PS5 aggregate)

• Release Date: February 26, 2016 (PS4); July 21, 2023 (PS5 native version)

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: No | Local Co‑op: Yes (up to 4 players online or split-screen) | Max Players: 4

• Community: A globally beloved farming sim with over 41 million copies sold and an active multiplayer and modding community.

On the opposite end of the spectrum from high-octane shooters is Stardew Valley, a peaceful farming and life-sim game that’s wonderful for couples to share. On PS5 you can play split-screen co-op (2 players) or online co-op (up to 4), building and tending a farm together in the charming pixelated world of Pelican Town. Many couples find Stardew incredibly relaxing – you can grow crops, raise animals, go fishing, explore mines, or just chat with the quirky townsfolk at your own pace. There’s no “win” condition; it’s about cooperation and cozy slow-burn progress. Sharing a farm means you’ll plan division of labor (“I’ll water the crops if you feed the chickens”) and celebrate joint accomplishments like completing the community center. It’s a perfect wind-down game for evenings, almost like a warm digital board game you return to daily. And since it’s available on PS4 (with a free PS5 upgrade), it’s an easy, affordable addition to your library that can provide hundreds of hours of low-stress together time.

Diablo IV

• Metacritic Score: 89 (PS5 version)

• Release Date: June 6, 2023

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: Yes (2-player) | Max Players: Shared world (4-player parties)

• Community: The fastest-selling Blizzard game ever, with over 12 million players in its first few months and a strong ongoing seasonal player base.

I have waited so long for this one, but man was it worth it. Maybe your idea of couples bonding involves slaying demons together. If so, Diablo IV is a fantastic two-player co-op experience on PS5. This action-RPG lets you and a partner (or small group up to 4 online) team up as heroes of different classes – e.g. a melee Barbarian and a spell-slinging Sorcerer – and smash through hordes of monsters, collecting loot and leveling up skills. The entire campaign and endgame are playable cooperatively. Notably, Diablo IV supports 2-player local co-op on PS5 (just like Diablo III did), meaning you and your significant other can hack-and-slash side by side on the couch without needing a second console. With its dark fantasy story and endless dungeon crawling, Diablo can be a great bonding activity – couples that grind together, stay together, as they say. The game is also highly acclaimed (Metascore ~88) and received numerous post-launch updates by 2025, keeping it fresh. Just be prepared to occasionally debate over loot drops (“Honey, you got the last legendary helm, this one’s mine!”).

Haven

• Metacritic Score: 72 (PS5 version)

• Release Date: December 3, 2020

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: No | Local Co‑op: Yes (2-player couch co-op) | Max Players: 2

• Community: A niche but warmly received co-op adventure praised for its relationship-driven story and inclusive design.

Lesser-known couples gem: Haven is literally a game about a couple. You play as Yu and Kay, two lovers who have escaped to a lost planet, gliding across landscapes and exploring to gather resources. The gameplay mixes exploration, light combat, and visual-novel-style storytelling about maintaining a relationship. It’s drop-in/drop-out co-op: one person can play solo and the second can join at any time to control the other character. Haven’s tone is very relaxed and intimate – there’s no competitive element, just two characters surviving together and having lots of dialogue (sometimes flirty, sometimes serious). It won’t appeal to everyone, but for a couple that wants a narrative experience to share, it can be quite special (TrueTrophies called it “the perfect game for you and a loved one to snuggle up with”). Plus, the art style and soundtrack are lovely and soothing. Think of it as playing an interactive indie romance film. If nothing else, it’s a bold change of pace from the usual shooter or platformer.

Best Free-to-Play PS5 Multiplayer Games

Gaming on a budget? No worries! These excellent free-to-play multiplayer games for PS5 deliver endless hours of fun without costing you a penny—perfect for casual and hardcore gamers alike.

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Scene from Apex

Apex Legends

• Metacritic Score: 89 (PS5 version, matching PS4 score)

• Release Date: March 29, 2022 (PS5 launch, original April 2019)

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: No | Max Online Players: Battle royale squads (up to 60 per match)

• Community: Fastest-growing battle royale, reaching over 25 million players in its first week and remaining popular with seasonal updates and a strong esports following.

Respawn’s stylish battle royale remains a powerhouse in the free-to-play space. Apex is known for its fast-paced movement, uniquely skilled characters (Legends), and best-in-class ping system for communication. It’s essentially a squad-based shooter where 60 players (20 teams of 3) fight to be last team standing, but the moment-to-moment action feels more like Titanfall (no wall-running though). The game hit 100 million players within two years of launch and has kept growing with new Legends and maps added each season. On PS5, you get a buttery 60fps (120fps support was in the works) and improved resolution over the PS4 version, plus the benefit of Adaptive Triggers which make each gun feel distinct. Importantly, Apex Legends does not require PS Plus to play online. Its cross-play lets PlayStation users battle Xbox and PC folks (though PC and console lobbies merge only when grouped). If you love hero shooters or battle royales, Apex’s gameplay is among the smoothest and most satisfying, with a high skill ceiling but also great tools for newcomers to contribute.

Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout

• Metacritic Score: 80 (PS5 version, carried over from PS4 reviews)

• Release Date: November 9, 2020 (PS4; PS5 upgrade free-to-play June 2022)

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: N/A | Max Online Players: Up to 32 per match

• Community: Maintains a vibrant player base since launch, with millions of downloads and strong social/streaming visibility thanks to its fun, approachable gameplay.

This game flipped the battle royale genre on its head by turning it into a wacky game show. Now fully free-to-play (and not needing PS Plus), Fall Guys throws 60 players into colorful obstacle course rounds reminiscent of Wipeout or Takeshi’s Castle, eliminating people each round until one bean is left standing. It’s pure silly fun that’s truly for all ages – you’re just running, jumping, and maybe grabbing others in a dash to qualify for the next round. The real joy is in the unexpected: giant swinging hammers, collapsing platforms, and physics-based chaos that can send even the most skilled player tumbling. By 2025, Fall Guys has collaborations with countless franchises (from Sonic to Star Wars) for costumes, keeping its cuteness factor high. Playing on PS5 means faster loading into matches and a solid 60fps even with dozens of bouncy beans on screen. Cross-play is enabled across all platforms, so the player count stays healthy. If you need a break from serious shooters and just want to laugh with friends for an hour, Fall Guys is an easy recommendation.

Genshin Impact

• Metacritic Score: 84 (PS5 version)

• Release Date: April 28, 2022 (PS5 launch)

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: No (multiplayer limited to certain content) | Max Online Players: Party of 4

• Community: Massive global reach with over 60 million downloads on PlayStation, frequent live events, and a highly engaged fan community across memes, art, and guides.

Part action RPG, part open-world adventure, Genshin Impact took the gaming world by storm in late 2020 and has kept an avid fanbase since. It’s free-to-play and famously playable on everything from PS5 to phones, with cross-save available. While primarily a solo experience in its story exploration, Genshin lets you team up online for co-op domains and bosses once you’ve progressed a bit. Think of it as a Zelda: Breath of the Wild-inspired world where you can invite a friend to help fight a dragon or tackle a difficult dungeon. The anime art style and character designs are a huge draw (yes, it’s gacha-based – new characters/weapons come from loot box mechanics, so be mindful). On PS5, Genshin runs at 60fps and loads its massive world very quickly. The co-op can be a blast, especially for casual play with one or two friends who also enjoy exploring and grinding for loot. And since it doesn’t require PS Plus (it’s free online), it’s easy for anyone to jump in. With regular updates every few months adding new regions and quests, Genshin Impact in 2025 is richer than ever – a great free adventure to share with friends or your significant other.

Overwatch 2

• Metacritic Score: 79 (PS5 version)

• Release Date: October 4, 2022 (PS5 launch)

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: No | Max Online Players: 12 per match (6v6)

• Community: Despite mixed reviews and some review-bombing backlash, Overwatch 2 sustains strong multiplayer engagement through seasonal events and esports support.

Blizzard’s hero shooter sequel/relaunch went free-to-play in late 2022, making it simple to hop into. Overwatch 2 is a 5v5 team-based FPS where each player picks a unique hero with special abilities – teamwork and role synergy are the keys to victory. Despite some ups and downs (it had a huge 35 million players in its first month, though has faced community critique over monetization), Overwatch 2 continues to receive new heroes, maps and seasonal modes. Importantly, it’s fully cross-play and does not require PS Plus to play online on PlayStation, since it’s free. That lowers the barrier for friend groups to jump in and assemble a squad of their favorite heroes. On PS5, you benefit from reduced input lag and can choose a 120Hz performance mode – crucial for a competitive shooter. Overwatch’s gameplay is still top-notch fun, especially if you can coordinate with friends on roles (tank, damage, support). There’s also an arcade with casual modes and custom games if you just want silly fun (like 4v4 deathmatch or limited powers modes). With its vibrant characters and emphasis on teamwork, Overwatch 2 can provide some of the most satisfying “we pulled it off together!” moments in gaming – all without spending a dime.

Multiplayer PS5 hidden gems

Discover PS5 multiplayer games you might have overlooked. These hidden gems from 2025 offer unique multiplayer experiences, creativity, and delightful surprises, ready for you to explore.

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Among Us gameplay screenshot

Among Us

• Metacritic Score: 85

• Release Date: November 16, 2018

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: Yes (4–10 players split-screen or online) | Max Players: 10

• Community: A global phenomenon with strong ongoing player engagement, especially popular among friends and streamers for its simple social-deduction gameplay.

The viral hit of 2020 is still sneaking around in 2025’s gaming landscape – and it’s now on PS5 with full cross-play support. Among Us is a social deduction game of teamwork and betrayal that’s perfect for parties (either local or online with voice chat). 4–15 players work together on a spaceship (or Airship, or lunar base… several maps now) completing simple tasks, but 1-3 of them are secretly Impostors trying to kill everyone. The magic is in the discussions – every time a body is found or an emergency meeting is called, players argue over whodunit. Lying to your friends (or detecting their lies) has never been so fun. On PS5, the game includes all the updated roles (Engineer, Scientist, Guardian Angel) and cosmetics, and you can play local couch sessions by hosting a lobby and using phones as additional controllers via free mobile app (or just online play with everyone on their own device). It’s also dirt cheap or free on mobile, making it easy to get a group going. If you somehow missed the craze, know that Among Us remains one of the most entertaining multiplayer games to play with friends – you’ll end up with legendary inside jokes and perhaps a little less trust in each other after a few rounds!

Deep Rock Galactic

• Metacritic Score: 85

• Release Date: January 4, 2022

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: No | Online Co‑op: Yes (up to 4 players) | Max Players: 4

• Community: A dedicated cooperative FPS title known for its destructible environments and class-based teamwork; frequently praised with overwhelmingly positive reviews.

This sleeper-hit co-op game puts you and up to 3 friends in the boots of badass space dwarves on mining missions. It’s a blend of procedural exploration, resource gathering, and bug-blasting action in fully destructible cave environments. Each mission, you’ll delve into caverns on alien planets, digging tunnels and fighting swarms of insectoid aliens together. The kicker is how well the four classes synergize: the Scout lights up the darkness, the Engineer sets up platforms, the Gunner lays down fire, and the Driller… well, drills. Teamwork is essential, and it leads to some truly epic cooperative moments (“Shield up, I’m reviving him!”). Deep Rock Galactic has been called “one of the best online co-op games ever” and one of the most generous live-service games (all mission updates have been free). It has a smaller, tight-knit community and fantastic developer support with seasonal events even in 2025. It’s a niche theme, sure – space mining isn’t as flashy as space war – but once you play, you’ll likely be hooked by its charm and depth. On PS5 it runs like a dream, and though it launched without cross-play, the PS4/PS5 players share servers and the game’s popularity on PlayStation has grown steadily thanks to word of mouth (and a stint on PS Plus in 2022).

No Man's Sky

• Metacritic Score: 75

• Release Date: November 2020 (PS5 “Next Generation” update)

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: Yes (shared-world multiplayer) | Max Players: Varies by session

• Community: After a rocky launch, it has grown into a vibrant space exploration community with consistent updates and a highly positive player base.

No Man’s Sky deserves a spot for creative sandbox fans. It offers a uniquely chill multiplayer experience: a virtually infinite universe where you and friends can claim a planet and build a base together, or just goof around discovering strange creatures and floating physics-defying megastructures. The game now has custom community expeditions (limited-time shared missions) and a creative mode that removes resource limits so you can construct massive colonies or pixel-art sculptures or whatever you dream up. Players have built everything from giant mechs to exact replicas of Star Wars ships thanks to the base-building tools. With 8-player groups on console (32 on PC) and 18 quintillion planets to see, the sense of scale and freedom is unparalleled. Importantly, NMS in 2025 is the product of years of updates – including shared missions, rideable creatures, underwater base parts, and even a full VR mode (on PS VR2). It’s a far cry from its 2016 launch state. If you’re a creative explorer type, this game can be a limitless playground, and doing it in multiplayer only adds to the wonder (nothing beats hearing your friend gasp, “Look at that ringed planet rising!” as you watch a sunrise together on an alien world).

Goat Simulator 3

• Metacritic Score: 80

• Release Date: November 17, 2022

• Tech Specs: Native PS5: Yes | Cross‑Play: Yes | Local Co‑op: Yes (up to 4 players) | Online Co‑op: Yes | Max Players: 4

• Community: A cult favorite for its chaotic physics and humor, Goat Simulator 3 continues to generate laughter and light-hearted multiplayer fun.

One of my guilty pleasures. For something completely different, how about causing mayhem as a goat? Goat Simulator 3 (don’t ask what happened to 2…) is an open-world sandbox of utter silliness that now supports 4-player co-op. You and your buddies each control super-powered goats in a big environment, basically doing whatever – lick people and drag them around, attach rockets to your goat, headbutt cars, you name it. There are structured mini-games and quests sprinkled about, but the real fun is in the unpredictable physics and hidden jokes. It’s the kind of game where you’ll spend an hour trying to balance a hundred objects on a trampoline just because, or competing to see who can get launched farther by an explosion. For small groups who appreciate absurd, low-stakes fun, Goat Sim 3 is a fantastic pick (especially if streaming or sharing clips – it’s very much a “you have to see this” game). On PS5 it looks surprisingly good (the devs actually put effort into the world design) and loading the large map is quick. This is by no means a game about progression or challenge – it’s more of a multiplayer toy box. Sometimes, after a stressful day or a tough Elden Ring boss, you just want to laugh and be a goat with friends – and that’s okay.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need PS Plus to play these games?

• Not necessarily. Games like Fortnite, Warzone 2.0, Rocket League, and Fall Guys are completely free-to-play and don’t require a PS Plus subscription for online multiplayer. However, most other premium titles do require an active subscription.

Q: Can I play PS5 multiplayer games with friends on other platforms?

• Yes! Many of the games on this list offer cross-platform support. Fortnite, Minecraft, Rocket League, Street Fighter 6, and Warzone 2.0 all let you play with friends on Xbox, PC, or even mobile.

Q: What’s the best PS5 multiplayer game for beginners?

• Overcooked! AYCE and Fall Guys are fantastic for newcomers. They’re easy to pick up, have forgiving mechanics, and are a blast whether you’re playing with friends or family.

Q: Are there multiplayer games for couples?

• Absolutely. It Takes Two is the standout, but games like Stardew Valley, Haven, and even Diablo IV make for great two-player experiences depending on your style.

Q: What if I only have one controller?

• Some games offer hot-seat or shared-controller modes. Overcooked, Jackbox Party Packs (via smartphones), and turn-based games like Worms or Civilization VI can still provide a great multiplayer experience without needing extra gear.

Q: Do these games run well on the standard PS5?

• Yes. All games listed run natively on PS5 or are well-optimized PS4 titles with enhanced compatibility. Many even support features like haptic feedback, faster loading, and improved graphics on the PS5 hardware.

Final Takeaway

Whether you’re in it for the chaos of a kitchen fire, a last-second headshot, or a peaceful evening on a pixelated farm, multiplayer games on PS5 in 2025 cater to every vibe and every type of player.

You don’t need the latest release or the deepest wallet to find a great co-op or competitive experience—just a solid controller, a few friends, and maybe a slice of pizza. Game on.

Looking for more game recommendations? Check out our ultimate game recommendations guide:

Ultimate Game Recommendations Guide 2025

Discover the best games of 2025 for every mood, genre, and platform. Expertly curated picks feature essential game details and insights for solo, multiplayer, family-friendly, relaxing, and upcoming titles.

By Games Genie

May 2025

15 min read