The PlayStation 5 has revolutionized gaming experiences, but some of the most memorable moments happen when you’re sitting on the couch with a friend or family member, controllers in hand, ready to tackle challenges together or compete head-to-head. Local multiplayer gaming creates connections that online play simply can’t replicate—the trash talk, the high-fives, the shared triumphs and defeats all happening in real-time, in the same room.
If you’re searching for the best 2 player ps5 games to enjoy with someone special, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide explores the top local multiplayer titles across various genres, from intense competitive fighting games to cooperative adventures that require teamwork and communication. Whether you prefer sports simulations, racing thrills, action-packed battles, or creative problem-solving platformers, the PS5’s impressive library has something perfect for every duo.
The beauty of 2 player games ps5 offers lies in their versatility. You can choose experiences that match your mood—competitive when you’re feeling fierce, cooperative when you want to work together, or casual when you just want to relax and have fun. With the PS5’s powerful hardware, stunning visuals, and innovative DualSense controller features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, local multiplayer gaming has never felt more immersive or engaging.
Let’s dive into the best options available, exploring what makes each game special and which types of players will enjoy them most.
Understanding Local Multiplayer Gaming on PS5
Before we explore specific titles, it’s important to understand what makes local multiplayer on PS5 such a compelling experience and how to set yourself up for success.
The Unique Appeal of Couch Co-op
Local multiplayer gaming—often called “couch co-op”—offers advantages that online gaming simply cannot match. When you’re physically present with your gaming partner, communication becomes instantaneous and natural. You can read body language, share reactions in real-time, and create memories that extend beyond the game itself.
The ps5 2 player games catalog emphasizes these shared experiences. Whether you’re strategizing together to overcome difficult challenges or competing intensely for bragging rights, having someone beside you transforms gaming from a solitary activity into a social event. These moments strengthen friendships, create family bonding opportunities, and provide entertainment that everyone can enjoy together.
Research shows that shared gaming experiences improve communication skills, enhance problem-solving abilities through collaborative thinking, and create stronger social bonds. The PS5’s local multiplayer options tap into these benefits while delivering cutting-edge graphics and gameplay that showcase the console’s impressive capabilities.
Setting Up Two-Player Mode: Simple Steps for Success
Getting started with ps5 two player games is remarkably straightforward, but proper setup ensures the best experience:
Step 1: Acquire Additional Controllers
You’ll need at least two DualSense wireless controllers. If you purchased a PS5 console bundle, it typically includes one controller, so you’ll need to buy an additional one. These controllers come in various colors—Cosmic Red, Midnight Black, Nova Pink, Starlight Blue, and more—allowing each player to choose their preferred style.
Step 2: Pair Controllers to Your Console
Connect each controller via USB cable to the PS5, then press the PlayStation button. The system will automatically pair the controller. Once paired, you can disconnect the cable and use the controller wirelessly. Each controller will remember the pairing, so you won’t need to repeat this process.
Step 3: Launch Your Game and Select Multiplayer Mode
Most two player ps5 games automatically detect when a second controller is connected. Simply start the game and look for options like “Local Multiplayer,” “Couch Co-op,” “Split-Screen,” or “Add Player 2.” The exact process varies by game, but it’s typically intuitive and clearly marked in the main menu.
Step 4: Configure Display and Audio Settings
For split-screen games, ensure your TV or monitor is large enough for both players to comfortably see their portion of the screen. A 50-inch or larger display works best for split-screen experiences. Consider adjusting your seating arrangement so both players have optimal viewing angles.
Essential Equipment for Optimal Two-Player Gaming
To maximize your best two player ps5 games experience, consider these additional items:
- Controller Charging Station: Keep both controllers charged and ready. DualSense charging stations can power up two controllers simultaneously, ensuring you never interrupt gameplay due to dead batteries.
- Extended Controller Battery Options: For marathon gaming sessions, consider controller battery packs or keeping USB charging cables nearby for wired play when batteries run low.
- Quality Audio Setup: Many multiplayer games feature directional audio cues important for gameplay. A good soundbar or surround sound system enhances immersion, though the PS5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech works excellently with quality headphones too.
- Comfortable Seating: Don’t underestimate the importance of comfortable chairs or a quality couch. Long gaming sessions become much more enjoyable when you’re physically comfortable.
- Large Display: While not essential, a bigger screen significantly improves split-screen experiences where each player gets a portion of the display. Consider 55-65 inch TVs or even projector setups for the ultimate couch co-op experience.
Top 2 Player PS5 Games for Sports and Racing
Sports and racing games represent some of the most popular 2 player ps5 games categories, offering both competitive head-to-head action and cooperative team-based gameplay.
EA Sports FC 25: The Ultimate Soccer Experience
EA Sports FC 25 (formerly known as FIFA) continues the franchise’s tradition of delivering the most authentic soccer experience available. With updated rosters, improved gameplay mechanics, and stunning visual fidelity that showcases the PS5’s capabilities, this title is perfect for soccer enthusiasts.
Local multiplayer options include:
- Head-to-Head Matches: Compete directly against your friend in exhibition matches
- Co-op Seasons: Team up to compete against AI opponents in season mode
- Ultimate Team Co-op: Build your dream team and play cooperatively online or locally
The DualSense controller’s haptic feedback lets you feel the difference between striking the ball with different parts of your foot, while adaptive triggers provide resistance when performing skill moves or taking shots. These features create an incredibly immersive experience that makes EA Sports FC 25 one of the 2 player games ps5 must-haves for sports fans.
MLB The Show 24: America’s Pastime Perfected
Baseball fans will find endless entertainment in MLB The Show 24, which offers comprehensive local multiplayer options. Whether you’re playing quick exhibition matches or full season modes with a friend, the game’s intuitive controls and realistic gameplay mechanics create authentic baseball experiences.
The game features multiple difficulty levels, making it accessible for casual players while still offering depth for hardcore baseball enthusiasts. Split-screen batting practice, pitching challenges, and full games provide variety for different play session lengths.
NBA 2K25: Hoop Dreams Come True
NBA 2K25 sets the standard for basketball simulations with photorealistic graphics, smooth animations, and deep gameplay systems. Local multiplayer includes exhibition matches, team-up co-op modes, and even streetball games for more casual experiences.
The game’s MyTeam mode allows you to build custom rosters and compete with friends, while traditional head-to-head matches let you control your favorite NBA franchises. The PS5’s processing power ensures buttery-smooth 60fps gameplay even in split-screen mode, maintaining visual quality that earlier console generations couldn’t match.
Gran Turismo 7: Racing Simulation Excellence
For racing enthusiasts, Gran Turismo 7 represents the pinnacle of ps5 2 player games in the simulation racing genre. The game features over 400 meticulously detailed cars and dozens of real-world tracks recreated with stunning accuracy.
Split-screen racing maintains impressive visual fidelity while delivering smooth performance. The DualSense controller’s adaptive triggers simulate brake pedal resistance and accelerator feedback, creating an immersive driving experience that approaches realism offered by expensive racing wheel setups.
Time trials, arcade races, and competitive championships provide structured challenges, while free practice sessions let you explore tracks and master racing lines together. The game’s driving school also offers excellent opportunities for teaching new players racing fundamentals.
Dirt 5: Off-Road Chaos
If simulation racing feels too serious, Dirt 5 offers arcade-style off-road racing with vibrant visuals and accessible controls. Split-screen modes support up to four players locally, making it perfect for larger gatherings, though it shines in two-player configurations where screen real estate isn’t as divided.
Dynamic weather, destructible environments, and various vehicle classes create variety across numerous tracks spanning global locations. The game emphasizes fun over realism, making it one of the two player ps5 games that appeals to racing fans and casual gamers alike.
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged
Nostalgia meets modern gaming in Hot Wheels Unleashed 2, which recreates the childhood joy of Hot Wheels toy car racing. This arcade racer features wild track designs with loops, jumps, and impossible turns that defy physics in the best possible way.
The split-screen mode runs smoothly, and the game’s track editor lets you build custom courses to challenge your friend. With dozens of licensed Hot Wheels vehicles to collect and race, this title offers lighthearted competition perfect for all ages, cementing its place among the best 2 player games ps5 for families.
Must-Try 2 Player PS5 Games for Action and Fighting
Fighting games have always been synonymous with local multiplayer, and the PS5 delivers exceptional options that showcase both competitive depth and technical excellence.
Tekken 8: Fighting Game Perfection
Tekken 8 has received critical acclaim with an OpenCritic rating of 90, representing the pinnacle of 3D fighting games. The game features a massive roster of characters, each with unique fighting styles, movesets, and combos that provide depth for serious competitors while remaining accessible to newcomers through simplified control options.
The PS5 version runs at 60fps consistently, which is crucial for fighting games where frame-perfect inputs can determine victory or defeat. Visual upgrades include detailed character models, dynamic stage destruction, and weather effects that showcase the console’s graphical capabilities.
Local versus mode remains the heart of the Tekken experience. Nothing beats the tension of sitting next to your opponent, reading their habits, and executing that perfect combo to secure victory. Tekken 8 solidifies its position among the best two player ps5 games for competitive players.
Street Fighter 6: Legendary Fighting Franchise
Capcom’s Street Fighter 6 brings fresh innovation to the iconic franchise while respecting its competitive heritage. The game introduces modern control schemes that make executing special moves easier for beginners, alongside classic controls for purists who prefer traditional input methods.
The World Tour mode offers cooperative experiences where two players can team up to complete challenges, but the core versus mode delivers that essential Street Fighter experience. With rollback netcode even supporting local wireless play between PS5 consoles, the game offers flexibility while prioritizing that classic couch competition experience.
Detailed tutorials and training modes help new players learn fundamentals, making Street Fighter 6 welcoming to those new to fighting games while maintaining the depth that competitive players demand.
WWE 2K24: Professional Wrestling Action
WWE 2K24 combines arcade accessibility with simulation depth, creating wrestling matches that feel authentic while remaining fun and dramatic. The extensive roster includes current WWE superstars and legends from wrestling history, allowing you to create dream matches that could never happen in reality.
Tag team matches support cooperative gameplay where both players control a team against AI opponents, while traditional one-on-one matches provide competitive head-to-head action. The creation suite lets you design custom wrestlers, so you and your friend can build characters and determine who’s truly the champion.
Cooperative Adventure Games for Team-Based Fun
Some of the most memorable ps5 two player games emphasize cooperation over competition, requiring players to work together toward common goals.
It Takes Two: Game of the Year Winner
While not in the original document, It Takes Two deserves mention as one of the greatest cooperative experiences ever created. This award-winning adventure requires two players and cannot be played solo, emphasizing that cooperation is not just encouraged but essential.
The game tells the story of a couple transforming into dolls who must work together to return to normal. Every level introduces new mechanics and gameplay styles, ensuring constant variety. The split-screen experience is thoughtfully designed so both players always have important roles and engaging tasks.
Human: Fall Flat: Physics-Based Puzzle Fun
Human: Fall Flat offers quirky, physics-based puzzle-solving that creates hilarious moments through intentionally clumsy character controls. With an OpenCritic rating of 68, it emphasizes creative problem-solving over precision, making it perfect for casual gaming sessions.
The game features wobbly humanoid characters navigating surreal dreamscapes filled with puzzles requiring cooperation. Because the physics are intentionally loose and unpredictable, even simple tasks like climbing ledges or carrying objects become comedy gold. Mistakes lead to laughter rather than frustration, making this one of the most stress-free two player ps5 games available.
Multiple solutions exist for most puzzles, encouraging experimentation and creative thinking. Whether you’re swinging across gaps, stacking boxes, or manipulating environmental objects, teamwork and communication determine success. The game supports custom levels through its workshop, providing endless content beyond the included campaign.
Sackboy: A Big Adventure: Platforming Excellence
Sackboy: A Big Adventure brings the beloved LittleBigPlanet character into a full 3D platforming adventure with an OpenCritic rating of 80. The game features vibrant, creative level design that feels like navigating through a handcrafted arts-and-crafts world.
Cooperative mode transforms the experience significantly. Many levels include sections specifically designed for two players, featuring puzzles and challenges that cannot be completed solo. Players can also interact physically—picking each other up, tossing each other across gaps, or slapping each other for comedic effect (though this can sometimes hinder progress during challenging sections).
The level variety is impressive, ranging from traditional platforming to rhythm-based stages where actions sync with the music. Collectibles scattered throughout levels encourage exploration and replayability, while optional time trial challenges provide competitive elements for players seeking extra difficulty.
Unravel Two: Emotional Cooperative Journey
Unravel Two presents a beautiful, emotional platforming experience where two yarn creatures called Yarnys must navigate environments together. The game emphasizes connection—literally, as the two characters are tethered by yarn and must coordinate movements to overcome obstacles.
The atmospheric presentation, touching story themes about companionship, and clever puzzle design create memorable moments. Levels require precise coordination, as players swing each other across gaps, create bridges with their connecting yarn, or separate to activate multiple switches simultaneously.
The game’s difficulty scales appropriately, starting with simple introductory puzzles and gradually introducing more complex mechanics. Solo play is possible by controlling both characters, but the experience truly shines when two players coordinate their actions, making it a standout among best two player ps5 games for cooperative experiences.
Platform Games Perfect for Casual Gaming Sessions
Not every gaming session requires intense competition or complex strategy. Sometimes you want relaxed, enjoyable experiences that anyone can pick up and play.
Overcooked! All You Can Eat: Culinary Chaos
Overcooked! All You Can Eat bundles both Overcooked games with all DLC, delivering hundreds of frantic cooking levels. Players must work together to prepare, cook, and serve dishes while navigating increasingly absurd kitchen layouts—from kitchens split across moving trucks to those invaded by the undead.
The simple controls (move, grab, chop, cook) make the game immediately accessible, but the challenge comes from coordination under time pressure. Communication becomes essential as you delegate tasks, call for ingredients, and prevent disasters like burning food or missing orders.
The game supports up to four players locally, but two-player mode offers the perfect balance of manageable chaos and teamwork requirements. Success feels genuinely rewarding when you and your partner synchronize perfectly to serve complex dishes under tight deadlines.
Moving Out: Cooperative Moving Madness
Moving Out applies the Overcooked formula to furniture moving, creating another physics-based cooperative experience filled with laughter and chaos. Players work as a moving company, transporting furniture from houses to trucks while dealing with obstacles, fragile items, and tight time limits.
The intentionally bouncy physics create comedy as characters stumble, drop items, or accidentally throw furniture through windows. Various level gimmicks keep gameplay fresh—some levels feature haunted houses, others have you moving furniture on farms with wandering animals, and some introduce zero-gravity environments.
The game celebrates cooperation and creativity rather than punishing mistakes harshly, making it ideal for players of all skill levels and one of the most approachable 2 player games ps5 options available.
Rayman Legends: Timeless Platforming
Though originally released on previous generations, Rayman Legends runs beautifully on PS5 and remains one of the finest cooperative platformers ever created. The game features gorgeous hand-drawn art, smooth animations, and creative level design that never gets repetitive.
Cooperative play adds chaos and fun as players can either help each other or playfully interfere. You can slap other players (which can be helpful or hilarious depending on timing), revive fallen partners, or compete for collectibles scattered throughout levels.
Musical levels where platforming actions sync perfectly with music represent gaming artistry at its finest. These rhythm-platforming stages are highlights that create “wow” moments players remember long after finishing them.
Sports Simulation Games Beyond Traditional Options
While we’ve covered major sports franchises, several other ps5 2 player games deserve recognition for offering unique sports experiences.
Madden NFL 25: American Football Excellence
For American football fans, Madden NFL 25 delivers comprehensive simulation with updated rosters, improved franchise modes, and refined gameplay mechanics. The game supports various local multiplayer modes including head-to-head matches, cooperative team control, and mini-game challenges.
The presentation quality rivals actual NFL broadcasts with authentic commentary, stadium atmospheres, and player celebrations. Whether you’re calling plays strategically or focusing on individual player control, the game accommodates different skill levels and playstyles.
UFC 5: Mixed Martial Arts Combat
UFC 5 brings mixed martial arts to the PS5 with realistic striking, grappling, and submission systems. The learning curve is steeper than arcade fighting games, but tutorials and practice modes help newcomers understand the complex mechanics.
Local versus mode lets you settle arguments about which fighter would win dream matchups or simply compete for bragging rights. The career mode also supports cooperative play where one player controls the fighter while another manages corner advice and strategy between rounds.
Tips for Maximizing Your Two-Player Gaming Experience
Beyond choosing the right games, these strategies enhance your two player ps5 games sessions:
Communication is Key
Whether competing or cooperating, clear communication improves experiences. Discuss strategies, call out observations, and keep dialogue positive even when things go wrong. The best gaming memories come from shared experiences, not just winning.
Balance Competition and Cooperation
Alternate between competitive and cooperative games to maintain variety. Too much competition can create tension, while exclusively cooperative gaming might lack excitement. Finding balance keeps sessions fresh and enjoyable.
Adjust Difficulty Appropriately
Many best two player ps5 games offer adjustable difficulty. If one player has significantly more experience, consider handicaps or difficulty adjustments that level the playing field. Gaming together should be fun for both participants.
Take Breaks
Extended gaming sessions benefit from periodic breaks. Stretch, grab snacks, discuss what you’ve experienced, and return refreshed. This prevents fatigue and maintains enthusiasm throughout longer play sessions.
Explore Different Genres
Don’t limit yourself to one game type. Variety keeps gaming experiences fresh and might reveal unexpected favorites. Someone who thought they only liked sports games might discover they love cooperative puzzle-platformers.
The Future of Local Multiplayer on PS5
The PS5’s powerful hardware ensures local multiplayer gaming will continue evolving with more impressive visuals, smoother performance, and innovative uses of DualSense features. Upcoming titles promise to push boundaries further, ensuring the catalog of excellent 2 player ps5 games continues expanding.
Developers increasingly recognize that local multiplayer represents something special that online gaming cannot fully replicate. As a result, we’re seeing renewed investment in couch co-op experiences, split-screen modes, and games designed specifically around shared physical space gaming.
FAQs:
1. What are the best 2 player ps5 games for competitive gaming?
The best 2 player ps5 games for competition include Tekken 8, Street Fighter 6, EA Sports FC 25, and Gran Turismo 7. These titles offer balanced competitive mechanics, smooth performance, and engaging head-to-head gameplay perfect for serious rivalry.
2. Can you play 2 player games ps5 on one console with split-screen?
Yes, many 2 player games ps5 support split-screen local multiplayer on one console. You’ll need two DualSense controllers, and games like Gran Turismo 7, Dirt 5, and various sports titles offer excellent split-screen experiences with maintained visual quality.
3. What ps5 2 player games are best for families with kids?
The best ps5 2 player games for families include Sackboy: A Big Adventure, Hot Wheels Unleashed 2, Overcooked! All You Can Eat, and Moving Out. These offer accessible controls, cooperative gameplay, and age-appropriate content that everyone can enjoy together.
4. Do ps5 two player games require PlayStation Plus subscription?
No, ps5 two player games don’t require PlayStation Plus for local multiplayer. You only need an extra controller and the game itself. PlayStation Plus is only necessary if you want to play online multiplayer with players outside your home.
5. What are the best two player ps5 games for cooperative gameplay?
The best two player ps5 games for cooperation are It Takes Two, Unravel Two, Human: Fall Flat, and Sackboy: A Big Adventure. These emphasize teamwork, communication, and shared problem-solving rather than competition, creating bonding experiences through collaborative challenges.
Conclusion
The PlayStation 5 offers an outstanding library of 2 player ps5 games spanning every genre imaginable. From competitive sports simulations and intense fighting games to cooperative adventures and casual platformers, there’s something perfect for every duo regardless of skill level or gaming preferences.
Local multiplayer gaming creates bonds and memories that extend far beyond the games themselves. Whether you’re competing fiercely for victory, collaborating to overcome challenges, or simply enjoying relaxed gaming sessions, these shared experiences strengthen relationships and provide entertainment that everyone can enjoy together.
The games highlighted in this guide represent the best options currently available, each offering unique experiences worth exploring. With the PS5’s impressive hardware capabilities, innovative controller features, and commitment to quality gaming experiences, there’s never been a better time to gather a friend or family member, grab those DualSense controllers, and dive into the wonderful world of local multiplayer gaming.
So charge those controllers, clear some space on the couch, and prepare for unforgettable gaming sessions. The best two player ps5 games are waiting, and the memories you’ll create together will last far longer than any individual achievement or high score. Happy gaming!