10 Best Co-op Games That Actually Require Teamwork (Not Just Shooting Together)

Co-op games often get a bad rap for being glorified solo missions where your friends are just extra guns. But the best ones make you depend on each other — where success demands communication, timing, and a bit of chaos control. These games don’t just test your aim; they test your bond, your patience, and your ability to not yell at your teammate for “accidentally” blowing up the whole squad.

Here are ten co-op games that turn teamwork into an art form — not just a checkbox on the menu.

1. ARC Raiders – When Unity Is the Only Way to Survive

Few games make cooperation feel as vital as ARC Raiders. In this sci-fi extraction shooter, survival isn’t about who’s got the best aim — it’s about who’s got your back. Each player’s role, from scout to sharpshooter, shapes the outcome of every encounter. You’ll strategize together, share resources, and panic together when alien mechs drop from orbit.

Getting your squad ready with an ARC Raiders Steam key unlocks one of the freshest co-op experiences in years. The game’s world constantly tests your teamwork through its brutal weather systems, unpredictable raids, and moments where one mistake can doom everyone. It’s not just about shooting aliens — it’s about surviving together.

2. Deep Rock Galactic – Space Dwarves, Unite!

Imagine mining on a deadly alien planet while hordes of bugs try to eat you alive. That’s Deep Rock Galactic. Each dwarf has a crucial job: engineers build paths, gunners hold the line, and scouts light the caves. Without coordination, you’re just lost in the dark — literally.

3. Helldivers 2 – Friendly Fire Has Never Been This Fun

Helldivers 2 makes teamwork mandatory. With friendly fire always on, coordination isn’t just encouraged — it’s survival. A single misstep can vaporize your squad, which somehow makes victory even sweeter.

4. GTFO – The Ultimate Trust Test

GTFO feels like a horror movie where you actually need your team to survive. Communication, timing, and nerves of steel are your only weapons. If you think teamwork means pinging enemies — think again.

5. Vermintide 2 – Fantasy Teamwork at Its Best

When waves of Skaven swarm, you’ll quickly realize no hero can stand alone. Vermintide 2 rewards tight coordination and punishes lone wolves. Every swing, heal, and dodge depends on your team’s rhythm.

6. Sea of Thieves – All Hands on Deck

This isn’t your average pirate romp. Sailing a ship in Sea of Thieves means juggling sails, steering, repairs, and cannon fire — all while fending off rival crews. There’s no “I” in crew, but there is one in “sink.”

7. Monster Hunter: World – Slaying Is a Group Effort

Hunting massive beasts becomes a dance of coordination in Monster Hunter: World. Each player’s weapon style complements the others — success depends on understanding not just your prey, but your partners.

8. Payday 2 – The Crew That Steals Together, Stays Together

Heists are a symphony of timing, planning, and communication. Payday 2 isn’t about chaos — it’s about precision. Everyone has a role, and one false move can bring the cops down fast.

9. Phasmophobia – Fear Bonds You Faster Than Anything

Ghost-hunting is scarier when your team’s lives (and sanity) depend on communication. You’ll argue over readings, panic when the ghost hunts, and still go back for “one more investigation.”

10. Overcooked! 2 – The Most Chaotic Fun You’ll Ever Have

Cooking together shouldn’t be this hard — or this hilarious. Overcooked! 2 demands synchronized madness. When your kitchen’s on fire, only true teamwork can save dinner.

The Power of True Co-op

From sci-fi extractions in ARC Raiders to culinary chaos in Overcooked! 2, these games prove teamwork is more than just standing next to each other with guns. It’s strategy, trust, and sometimes, shouting directions while everything burns.

And if you’re ready to dive into one of the best modern co-op experiences, you can easily grab ARC Raiders and other multiplayer gems through Eneba digital marketplace.