Playing games with a friend is a great way to spend a weekend. Sometimes, though, that friend may not be as well-versed as you in gaming.
These beginnerco-op gamesare here for you, allowing you to still play games together without constant failure or frustration. There’s no need to walk away angry; you may stay with it until the credits roll.
Whether it’s playing with your child, niece or nephew, or maybe even your partner. FromStardew ValleytoCastle Crashersand everything in between, these are the ten best co-op games for beginners.
10Super Mario Party
Partner party
Super Mario Party
OtherMario Partygames for Nintendo Switch may be more enjoyable, butSuper Mario Party’s Partner Party mode is the best co-op experience.
One issue withSuper Mario Partywas its difficulty: the game is far easier than the others, but if we’re looking for a beginner co-op game, that’s perfect.
Partner Party allows for teams of two to work together rather than competing against each other. Combined with the game’s accessibility, it’s a great way to introduce someone who may not be familiar with gaming to theMario Partyseries.
Once they’re comfortable, you can move on to the Switch’s otherMario Partygames.
Every Super Mario Party Jamboree Game Board, Ranked
Wondering which board is best in Super Mario Party Jamboree? Check out our list to find the boards worth playing over and over!
9Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe
Beginner co-op dream
Kirby’s Return To Dreamland Deluxe
No gaming franchise is as lauded for its accessibility asKirby.
These side-scrolling platformers may not be difficult, but they’re still enjoyable, making them perfect for a beginner co-op experience.
What makes them work is their ability to challenge players to explore everything the game offers, whichReturn to Dreamland Deluxeexcels at.
Sure, you’re able to zip across each map from start to finish with no problem, but for those looking to 100% the game, there are a lot of secrets to discover.
8New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
Accessible platforming action
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
For those looking for a bit more challenging thanKirby, theSuper Mario Bros.franchise has you covered.
TheNew Super Mario Bros.games excel at providing accessible platforming to gamers of all skill levels. While those looking for a challenge can find it, these games are generally easier.
It also allows for cooperative gameplay, making it a great gateway title for you to play with beginners. You’ll learn the platforming basics and get a good grasp on controlling your character, especially in co-op mode.
If you want an easier, quintessential gaming experience, look no further.
7Stardew Valley
Farming together
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valleyis the definition of a relaxing, cozy game. Sure, a lot needs to be done on your farm, but there’s something enjoyable about completing these tasks.
Adding someone else to share the load makes things not only more manageable but also enjoyable. Plus, you’ll learn essential team-building skills that can be valuable as you and your player two work on tackling more difficult games.
From tending crops, visiting town, and fishing, doing it with someone by your side helps the time pass by, allowing for cooperative teamwork and personal bonding.
Stardew Valley Has Sold Over 41 Million Copies Across All Platforms
Thanks to its most recent sales figures, Stardew Valley’s success shows no sign of slowing down.
6Overcooked
Overcooked
For those looking for more of a challenge compared toStardew Valley,Overcookedprovides that while still providing accessibility.
Its basics are simple: you and your teammates are responsible for preparing dishes for a restaurant. The catch, though, is the obstacles the game throws at you.
From moving platforms to isolated workstations, nothing in Overcooked is as easy as it seems. However, itscore fundamentals of cooperation still make it an excellent choice for beginners looking for a co-op game.
Provided you’ve never worked in a restaurant, of course. Otherwise, it may bring back traumatic memories.
5Snipperclips
Cut it out
Snipperclips: Cut It Out Together
The charmingNintendo Switchco-oppuzzle gamehas the perfect balance of accessibility and challenge.
Puzzles don’t feature an impossible difficulty curve, but they’re not rolling over, either. Instead, solving each puzzle relies on both trial and error and creativity.
AlthoughSnipperclipshas remained obscure throughout the Switch’s lifespan, it offers a delightful co-op experience that pleases new gamers and longtime veterans.
4Castle Crashers
Co-op mayhem
Castle Crashers
Developer The Behemoth is an expert at delivering over-the-top cooperative action. However, their games' true hallmark is their accessibility.
TakeCastle Crashers, arguably their most high-profile game. As a side-scrolling action beat ‘em up, there’s a lot going on, but there’s never a time when you want to snap the control in half and give up.
The easy-to-learn, easy-to-master combat helps beginners stay engaged throughout the entire experience.
Some of its humor is very much a product of its time, butCastle Crashersis an excellent beginner co-op game that can help bridge them to more challenging adventures likeIt Takes Two.
3Cat Quest 2
Purrrfect co-op gaming
Cat Quest II
Hack-and-slash action RPGs are excellent co-op games for beginners because they are simple to play and can still be rewarding.
Cat Quest 2is the perfect example of a game that succeeds due to deep, engaging gameplay that remains accessible.
Its simple combat system means anyone of all skill levels can hop in and play.
Plus, who doesn’t want to be a cat questing in an open world?
10 Best Low Stress Co-op Games
Teamwork without the tension.
2Keep Talking and No One Explodes
It’s a real blast
Party games likeJackboxare an excellent way to get beginner gamers involved with video games. However, we’re looking for beginner co-op games, andJackboxdoesn’t always offer cooperative gameplay.
EnterKeep Talking and Nobody Explodes, a co-op party game where people work together to defuse a time bomb. The catch is that one person has access to the bomb, but everyone else has the instructions.
Yes, things can get chaotic, but that only adds to the enjoyment.
Surprisingly, it’s not as stressful as it seems, and it is the most fun you can have with your friends shouting at you.
Catch The Imposter
Any skill necessary to succeed inAmong Ushas nothing to do with your ability as a gamer. Instead, it’s all dependent on your social prowess.
Among Usis all aboutsocial deduction. You and your crew work together, but imposters among you attempt to kill the entire crew.
It’s an excellent recreation of popular party games like Mafia or Werewolf that offer not just an impressive amount of accessibility but also constant engagement for every player.
Sometimes, these party games leave people out of the action, butAmong Uskeeps everyone engaged.
