Games That Are Better With Friends on Game Pass

22 April 2026

There’s something magical about gaming with friends — the laughter, the chaos, the shared victories (and defeats). Sure, single-player epics are great, but there’s nothing like hopping online with your squad and diving head-first into a world of mischief, mayhem, and memories. Lucky for us, Xbox Game Pass is stacked with co-op gold, making it easier than ever to rally your friends without breaking the bank.

So if you're staring at your Game Pass library, wondering what to play next with your crew, you're in the right place. Grab your headset, text your buddies, and let's jump into some of the best games that are way better — heck, epic — with friends on Game Pass.

Why Multiplayer Games Hit Different

Before diving into the list, let’s have a quick heart-to-heart.

Think about the last time you laughed so hard during a game that you had to pause because tears were rolling down your face. Or the adrenaline rush of pulling off a win with your friends on the edge of defeat. Multiplayer games bring those moments to life. They aren’t just games — they’re digital campfires where friendships are forged and unforgettable stories unfold.

No AI can replicate your best friend yelling, “REVIVE ME!” right before you both go down in flames.

Game Pass understands the assignment — offering a buffet of multiplayer goodness that covers everything from chill couch co-ops to competitive showdowns. So let’s get into it.

1. Sea of Thieves – Chart Your Course, But Bring a Crew

Ahoy! Ever dreamt of being a pirate but without the risk of scurvy? Sea of Thieves is your ticket to the high seas — but trust me, you’ll want friends aboard. Going solo is fine, but few things are as thrilling (or hilarious) as coordinating a cannon barrage, getting lost chasing treasure, or accidentally sinking your own ship because someone forgot to lower the anchor.

In this open-world sandbox, you and up to three mates can sail together, complete quests, fight skeletons, and even take down ghost ships. The best part? Every session feels different, thanks to the unpredictable nature of player interactions.

> Pro tip: Never trust another crew who claims they're friendly. It's a trap. Always.

2. Halo: The Master Chief Collection – Squad Up and Relive the Glory

Halo is legendary for a reason. Whether you’re an OG fan or new to the franchise, The Master Chief Collection bundles Halo 1 through 4 (plus Reach and ODST) into a glorious package that’s perfect for co-op and competitive play.

The campaign supports up to 4 players online, and it hits that sweet spot of nostalgia and challenge. Then there’s the multiplayer. Friendly fire is optional, but let’s be real — it’s more fun when it’s on. "Accidental" grenade throws are a rite of passage, after all.

It’s also perfect for LAN-style nostalgia nights (virtually, of course). So grab your Spartan armor and call in the squad.

3. Grounded – Honey, I Shrunk the Kids... and the Fun's Just Starting

What do you get when you mix survival mechanics, giant bugs, and backyard exploration? Grounded — and it’s a co-op gem that shines on Game Pass.

Play solo if you dare, but this game really comes alive with friends. Suddenly, fending off ants and building forts out of twigs becomes a team-building exercise... with a side of bug-induced panic. The sense of progression, crafting mechanics, and the shared "OH MY GOD IS THAT A SPIDER?!" moments make it unforgettable.

Trust me, nothing brings friends closer than screaming together as a wolf spider corners you in a soda can.

4. Minecraft – Build, Survive, Goof Off

Yes, Minecraft. Still. Always.

Whether you want to build a castle in the clouds, roleplay in a village, or slap each other into a lava pit, Minecraft is limitless fun — especially in multiplayer. Game Pass includes both the Java and Bedrock Editions, so whatever your flavor, you’re covered.

Mods, mini-games, survival or creative — there’s something for everyone. And that’s the magic of Minecraft: it’s the Lego set you never outgrow. Only now, your friends can all join the sandbox without needing a spare controller.

5. It Takes Two – Literally Can’t Play Without a Buddy

This one’s a bit of a cheat — you literally can't play It Takes Two solo. But that’s what makes it so brilliant.

It’s a co-op-only narrative adventure where you and your partner must work together to help a fractured couple repair their relationship. Sounds heavy? It's actually ridiculously fun and clever. The gameplay is constantly changing, with new mechanics in every level — from turning into plants to fighting squirrels.

It's creative, heartfelt, and sometimes straight-up bonkers. But through it all, you’ll have to communicate, cooperate, and maybe even learn a thing or two about teamwork.

> Seriously, it won’t just test your gaming skills — it might test your friendship too (in a good way!).

6. Back 4 Blood – Zombies Are Better With Friends

From the makers of Left 4 Dead comes this spiritual successor that's all about blowing up undead monstrosities with your crew. The campaign is designed for four players, and while you can play with bots, trust me — they don’t scream in terror or laugh at your terrible aim like real friends do.

Each level throws different challenges and mutations your way, so every playthrough feels fresh. The card system adds a twist to gameplay strategy, giving your group a reason to keep coming back.

Grab your weapons, watch each other’s backs, and remember — team kills happen, but it’s all love, right?

7. Deep Rock Galactic – Dwarves, Aliens, and Explosions

If you’ve never yelled “ROCK AND STONE!” into a mic, are you even gaming properly?

Deep Rock Galactic is a four-player co-op FPS where you play as space dwarves mining for precious resources and battling alien swarms. It’s chaotic, hilarious, and surprisingly strategic once you dig into it (pun intended).

Each dwarf class has unique abilities, so coordinating plays is essential. Whether you’re zip-lining across caves, planting explosives, or reviving a buddy mid-swarm, every mission feels like an underground adventure with your best pals.

8. Forza Horizon 5 – Driving’s Better in a Convoy

Sure, racing games aren’t always thought of as “co-op” — but Forza Horizon 5 flips that on its head. Set in a vibrant take on Mexico, FH5 lets you and your friends race, stunt, explore, and just cruise through gorgeous landscapes together.

Have a buddy who’s not a pro driver? No problem. The game scales difficulty and has plenty of events that cater to different playstyles.

Whether you’re drifting off volcanoes or just dragging each other into impromptu street races, Forza turns every drive into a party.

9. A Way Out – Breakout Bonds

Another story-driven co-op exclusive (and from the same creators as It Takes Two), A Way Out puts you and a friend in the shoes of two convicts planning — and executing — a prison break.

It’s thrilling, full of variety, and deeply cinematic. It’s like playing through a buddy action movie, complete with car chases, stealth sequences, and emotional gut-punches.

What sets it apart? Split-screen is always on — even online — so you’re always aware of what the other player is doing. It builds a sense of connection unlike anything else.

And yes, the ending will hit you right in the feels.

10. Fall Guys – Embrace the Chaos Together

This game is goofy, unpredictable, and chaotic fun. Fall Guys is basically a game show designed to crush your hopes one jump at a time — but somehow, it’s even more fun when your friends are flailing around with you.

The mini-games are fast, frantic, and filled with laughs. Watching your friend trip over a spinning bar mere inches from the crown? Iconic. And when one of you actually wins? That’s an instant legend moment.

Squad up, strap in, and prepare to rage-laugh your way through the silliest obstacle courses ever made.

Honorable Mentions (Because We Couldn't Just Stop at 10)

- Ark: Survival Evolved – Taming dinosaurs with friends? Sign me up.
- No Man’s Sky – Vast space exploration is way less lonely with a crew.
- The Ascent – Cyberpunk co-op blasting at its finest.
- Gears 5 – Epic campaign and Horde mode co-op carnage.
- Don't Starve Together – Survive a twisted world or go down hilariously trying.

Wrapping Up – The More, The Merrier

Games are great. But games with friends? That’s where the real memories are made.

Xbox Game Pass is a treasure chest of multiplayer greatness. Whether you’re into fast-paced shooters, laid-back builders, or story-driven adventures, there's something here that'll get you and your friends talking, laughing, and maybe even yelling over Discord at 2 am.

So stop scrolling, pick a game from this list, and rally the squad. Because Fridays are for falling off cliffs in Fall Guys or getting eaten by spiders in Grounded. Together.

And hey — next round of snacks is on you, right?