For many gamers out there, their passion for this fantastic hobby can be traced back to the days of taking their siblings on in epic gun-filled clashes. Likewise, some gamers got into retro gaming titles in the sports category after scoring winners with Inter Milan’s Adriano against their friends. As such, an increasing number of players are only really interested in multiplayer releases and co-op masterpieces.
Thankfully, for gamers who enjoy playing titles with their nearest and dearest, there are some standout options. Of course, that doesn’t mean players aren’t enjoying more solitary gaming experiences, be it Fantasy Premier League or purchasing lottery tickets online, but these commonly enjoyed alternatives are complemented by a gaming experience that involves the people closest to them in a chaotic, extremely fun shared adventure.
So, with some superb co-op and multiplayer releases coming to the fore recently, below we briefly highlight a selection of the best options to buy in 2026.
Mario Kart World
When assessing the most iconic multiplayer games from over the years, the Mario Kart franchise has delivered some clear masterpieces. As the latest instalment from the series, Mario Kart World is the game everyone is talking about right now, with this Switch 2 title serving up strong doses of entertainment. The game can even have up to 24 players online, although battle modes and races are probably best to enjoy with your buddies. A release you can play for hours on end while topping podiums and firing items, Mario Kart World is extremely fun.
Among Us
A social deduction release that can be played on numerous leading platforms, Among Us is perfect to play with a group of pals. In this one, a killer is in the pack and players have to work together to rumble them. Along the way, players have to fix the spaceship they’re frequenting all while avoiding being killed themselves. A game that provides plenty of laughs, Among Us is a blast to session.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Hosting up to eight players at once, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is another leading product in this particular space. While it might not be as chaotic as Mario Kart World and Among Us, this more soothing experience is well worth sampling. In this one, you can join your friends as you venture to each other’s islands, share resources, and explore a charming release filled with adventures.
EA Sports FC 26
As mentioned, scoring screamers with Adriano in classic Pro Evolution Soccer titles was a privilege for soccer gamers in the past. However, these days, EA Sports FC 26 is the game for soccer lovers. In this one, gamers can go against each other in tense clashes using Premier League clubs, while there’s also an Ultimate Team aspect that sees players take on their friends using a team of players they’ve assembled over time.
Baldur’s Gate 3
If the beautiful game of soccer doesn’t tickle your fancy for whatever reason, then the narrative-driven scenarios on offer in Baldur’s Gate 3 might. A co-op title where you can take your time while exploring its drop-in multiplayer mode, up to four players can tackle this eye-catching release filled with twists and turns. Overall, Baldur’s Gate 3 is a top title, especially for gamers who crave turn-based RPG titles in a game that offers unparalleled freedom.
Other amazing games to play with friends in 2026 include Deep Rock Galactic, Helldivers 2, Split Fiction, Far Cry 6, Fortnite, Don’t Starve Together, Elden Ring: Nightreign, Goose Goose Duck, Moving Out, Travelers Rest, and The Planet Crafter.
