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5 Best Couch Co-Op Games of 2022
Gaming is an experience that is enhanced when played co-op with a friend. Even more so, when that friend is within high-fiving distance of each other. However, that's only the case with games that are made couch co-op. Essentially it's another term for local co-op, which excludes multiplayer co-op. That's why we want to look at the best couch co-op games of 2022 since multiplayer co-op appears to be the new standard addition of all current games.
We know you're looking for games that will let you re-live the original co-op experience, however, in 2022. These games will undoubtedly do that, whether they are enjoyed with or against a friend. That's why it's important to remember that while you're in high-fiving range, you're also in punching range. Regardless, that means the only thing up for grabs in this list is a good time with friends, because we're listing the five best couch co-op games of 2022.
5. Tiny Tina Wonderlands
Before you start punching one another, let's first, let's focus on knocking out foes together in Tiny Tina Wonderlands. Released on March 25, 2022, Tiny Tina Wonderlands is the newest game stemming from the Borderlands series, however, it's a spin-off from the main story. The game is set in between Borderlands two and three and is delivering its own original story, playable with up to four-player split-screen. Which makes the game a more chaotic experience than it already is.
There are six classes players can choose from, all unique to their own playstyle. For example, the Stabbomancer focuses on stealth combat, while the Clawbringer is a bit more brutish. This incorporates a fun team-chemistry aspect to co-op that lets everyone experience the gameplay in their preferred style. However, you will need to coordinate your abilities since more players equal more enemies, which amplifies Tiny Tina Wonderlands' chaotic fighting style to the limit.
4. Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course
Cuphead is a title that gained significant popularity in 2017 because of its gameplay, art style, and challenging combat. It was most definitely a breath of fresh air, but also a challenging one. Its wildly explosive and rapid combat can be so challenging at times, that it made our list of video games that will most likely test your patience. However, with the addition of a local two-player co-op, this dial is at a more demanding but not hair-pulling-out level.
It's surely a couch co-op game you will want to experience since its second installment, Cuphead The Delicious Last Course is set to release on June 30th, 2022. Which of course has the inclusion of couch co-op. This may be for better or worst at times since this is the only title that will make you high-five and punch your buddies at the same time. So far, the expectation for it to retake the helm of one of the best couch co-op games of 2022 is high, and there's little expectation it won't deliver.
3. Mario Strikers: Battle League
We can all agree that Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is one of, if not, the best couch games of all time. However, it appears Nintendo may be accomplishing this feat once again with its newest local co-op game, Mario Strikers: Battle League. The game, which will be released on June 10, 2022, looks to be bringing couch co-op to new heights. Not to mention that local co-op may accommodate up to eight players. That means your main concern will be whether your couch is big enough to fit all of your buddies.
The game looks to be a very intense iteration of soccer, coming with all the classic characters from the Mario universe. Each character has their own set of powers that let you knock other players off the ball by, bashing one another into an electric fence, getting tackled to the ground, or even being launched into the air. On top of that, each character has a special power-up strike for an explosive shot. As of right now, Mario Strikers: Battle league could make huge strides toward the best couch game of 2022, but find out for yourself on June 10th.
2. Kirby and the Forgotten Land
One of everyone's favorite video game characters, Kirby, is stepping into a 3D perspective for the first time with Kirby and the Forgotten Land. The game was released on March 25th, exclusively for Switch consoles. However, you can play it on the couch right next to your friend with the inclusion of a two-player co-op. So, instead of taking on the game's many puzzles and challenges alone, you can work towards them with your friend. A much more enjoyable experience.
In the end, that's why we are here, to enjoy games with friends, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land, is nailing that right on the head. The game is packed with charming and enjoyable levels that bring Kirby back with new abilities to test out. This really makes Kirby feel like a refreshing experience. For anyone who enjoys Nintendo's style of games and is looking to play with a friend, this is surely the best way to go. Plus, we highly doubt this game will result in any punches unless your friend starts trolling you with Kirby's inhale, then it's free-range.
1. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
If you want one of the most nostalgic couch co-op experiences of your youth, stop what you're doing, grab a friend, and play Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga. The game was released on April 5th, 2022, and brought back everything there is to love about LEGO games. Following the story of the Skywalker Saga, it includes all of the most notable fights and scenes from the franchise around the Skywalker Saga, as well as much more. Making it the biggest LEGO game to date.
With over 300 playable characters and a total of 24 planets, there is an endless amount of stuff to explore and fun to be had. So if you're going to play the game, best do it co-op on the couch with a friend. Over multiple sessions, I may add. For the love of LEGO games, and re-living a story as old as time, LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga takes number one for the best couch co-op game of 2022.
