Gaming is an extremely varied industry, with different types of games catering to different audiences, demographics, and categories of players. From hardcore single-player titles likeElden Ringand competitiveFPS shooterslike Counter-Strike 2 to casual entries like Stardew Valley and creativity-focused games like Minecraft, there is something for everyone.
10 Best Cross-Platform Co-Op Games
you’re able to play these games with your friends regardless of which platform they’re on.
Families are also covered thanks to these games that are the perfect picks for a game night, with each entry allowing local co-op for some lighthearted but chaotic fun.
8Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge
A Modern Beat-Em-Up for All Ages
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revengebrings the nostalgic feel ofclassic arcade gamesto the living room. Designed for up to six players in local or online co-op, this game is perfect for families who want to team up and relive the action-packed adventures of Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael. The gameplay revolves around fast-paced brawls in varying locations against iconic villains like Bebop and Rocksteady.
The vibrant, cartoon-inspired visuals and simple controls make it ideal for players of all skill levels. Plus, it’s available on nearly every platform, making it easy to pick up and play on whichever system that’s most accessible to a family.
7Rayman Legends
A Unique and Whimsical Platformer
Rayman Legends
For families looking for a charming and lighthearted platforming experience that doesn’t involve a bunch of turtles beating up goons,Rayman Legendsis the perfect pick. Up to four players can join in on the fun, working together to explore imaginative levels filled with puzzles, enemies, and hidden collectibles. New mechanics are continuously introduced throughout the campaign, ensuring the game stays fresh and exciting throughout its lengthy campaign.
What makes this game stand out is its music levels, where actions like jumps sync perfectly with the beats in the addicting soundtrack that’s guaranteed to stay in the player’s mind long after they’re done with the level, creating a rhythm-game twist that everyone can enjoy. Its cooperative nature along with the lack of complex controls make it perfect for kids and grandparents alike.
6Overcooked 2
Chaotic Kitchen Simulator
Overcooked 2
A bit of chaos never hurts anyone. Families who are willing to lightheartedly tease and annoy each other will instantly fall in love with the turmoil that ensues inOvercooked 2. This game tasks players with preparing and serving dishes in a series of increasingly bizarre kitchens, from moving vehicles to haunted mansions. Up to four players can join locally or online, making it ideal for family game nights regardless of the member’s location.
Review: Overcooked 2
It’s obvious how much rage-tinted joy can be conjured from out Ghost Town Games' quirky set-up of cooking up meals.
The frantic gameplay necessitates communication and teamwork, as players must coordinate chopping ingredients, cooking, and serving meals under tight time constraints. Its cartoonish visuals and simple controls make it kid-friendly, but the fast pace ensures it’s engaging for older players too.
While not with my family, I played Overcooked 2 with two of my friends and yes, it is just as hectic as everybody says it is, and extremely fun too.
5Disney Dreamlight Valley
A Cozy Disney Adventure
Disney Dreamlight Valley
Everybody loves Disney, and their cozy life-sim game,Disney Dreamlight Valleyis the perfect game for families who want to embark on a magical adventure together from their couch. The game brings the entire family closer to each other, and to the various Disney characters in the game, such as Mickey Mouse, Elsa, and Moana. The game even lets players customize their own character, rebuild the valley, and complete quests for their favorite Disney heroes.
Even though the game is mostly single-player, its enchanting atmosphere andnon-violent gameplaymake it perfect for younger children who can sit together with their parents for a memorable night full of adventures.
4Jackbox Games
Instant Party Fun
The Jackbox Party Pack
The Jackbox Games series is a must-have for family game night. These party games are played using a console, PC, or even on a smart TV, which will act like the main screen, while other players join in using their smartphones or tablets as controllers. Some of the best games in this series of games titled Party Packs include Quiplash and Fibbage.
What makes Jackbox special is its accessibility; even tech-shy family members can jump in with ease. Many games allow for large groups, often supporting up to eight active players, with even more joining as audience members. Since new packs are regularly released, there’s always something fresh to try.
3Nintendo Switch Sports
An Obvious Pick
Nintendo Switch Sports
Nintendo Switch Sports brings back the family-friendly fun of the Wii era. Featuring motion-controlled games like bowling, tennis, and badminton, it’s an excellent way to get everyone off the couch and moving. Up to four players can compete locally, while online modes pit two families from around the world against each other for some competitive fun.
The intuitive motion controls make it accessible to players of all skill levels, from toddlers to grandparents. With the inclusion of avatars, players can customize their characters to represent themselves, adding a personal touch to the gameplay. As a Switch exclusive, it’s a must-have for families with Nintendo’s hybrid console.
2Super Mario Party Jamboree
Classic Mini-Game Madness
Super Mario Party Jamboree
Super Mario Party Jamboreeis Nintendo’s newest entry into this long-running franchise, and it’s bigger and better than ever, with over 110 minigames for everyone in the family to enjoy. The game takes the best boards and mini-games from the series’ long history, as well as five brand-new boards, and introduces new surprises, challenges, and party modes, making it feel like a fresh experience even for long-time fans.
The game allows up tofour playerswho can compete in thrilling mini-games, collect stars, and sabotage their opponents across both new and old boards. It’s still just as accessible as previous entries for players of all ages, thanks to simple mechanics and short mini-games. With an expansive roster of 22 playable characters, the all-new Jamboree Buddies mechanic, and the excellent Showdown Minigames for each character, Super Mario Party Jamboree is guaranteed to turn the family game night into a chaotic, laugh-out-loud experience for everyone.
1Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
The Ultimate Family Racing Game
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
No family game night is complete withoutMario Kart 8 Deluxe. This Nintendo Switch classic offers fast-paced racing action for up to four players in split-screen mode, and 8 players if two Nintendo Switch consoles are linked together. With a roster of iconic characters, dozens of colorful tracks, and accessible controls, it’s a game that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age or skill level.
The inclusion of assistive features like auto-steering makes it even easier for younger or less experienced players to compete. Whether players are drifting on the bends of Rainbow Road or battling it out in Balloon Battle, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe promises a fun time for every member of the family.
