Co-operative games are those in which players cooperate with each other instead of competing. In these types of games, they usually have to team up to achieve a specific goal, such as passing a level, defeating a boss, or solving a puzzle. Co-op games can be played both by several people on one screen and over the internet, which allows you to play with friends or people from around the world. Some popular examples of co-op games are Left 4 Dead, Borderlands, Diablo III, and Minecraft.
- What are the advantages of co-operative games?
- Why do players like co-operative games?
- What is the difference between online co-operative and local co-operative games?
- What platforms are co-operative games coming to?
- What co-operative games are worth waiting for in 2023?
Cooperative games, i.e., games that require the cooperation of players, appeared in the 1970s, with the beginning of the era of computer games. One of the first examples of a cooperative game is the game “Spasim” (Spacewar! Cooperative game) created by researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1974.
Another example is the 1984 game “Raid on Bungeling Bay”, created by Will Wright, the creator of SimCity and The Sims, which allowed you to fight together against hostile forces. In the following years, numerous cooperative games were created, such as “Gauntlet” or “Left 4 Dead”, and today they are one of the most popular game genres, attracting many players around the world.
What are the advantages of co-operative games?
Co-operative games have many advantages. Here are a few of them:
- Cooperation – Co-operative games require cooperation between players, which helps to build positive relationships between them. Players must work together and help each other, which leads to a better understanding and engagement in the game.
- Integration – Co-operative games are perfect for groups who want to spend time together and integrate. These games require players to be focused and coordinated, which fosters stronger relationships between them.
- Challenges – Co-operative games often have different difficulty levels, allowing players to unleash their skills and abilities. Thanks to this, players learn how to act in a group and how to deal with difficulties.
- Satisfaction – Did you finish the game? It’s a huge sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Players feel satisfied that they managed to beat the game in a group, and this leads to greater satisfaction from the game itself.
- Variety – Co-op games can have a variety of themes and genres, making them accessible to any player. Co-op games can be played with different storylines and in different worlds, which provides plenty of opportunities for anyone who wants to try their hand at this category of games.
Why do players like co-operative games?
Players like co-operative games for several reasons. Firstly, these types of games allow them to play together with their friends, which can be a lot of fun and increase the sense of connection with the group. Secondly, in co-operative games players can act as a team, requiring them to cooperate, communicate and coordinate actions.
These types of challenges can be rewarding and rewarding, especially if you manage to overcome the difficulties. Thirdly, many co-operative games allow for various ways to personalize characters, gain experience and unique equipment, which can encourage players to play longer and explore the game world.
What is the difference between online co-operative and local co-operative games?
Online co-operative games allow you to play with other players over the internet, regardless of their geographic location. Players must have an internet connection to connect with other players and play co-op together.
In contrast, local co-operative games, also called couch co-op or split-screen co-op, allow you to play with other players on the same console or computer. In this mode, players use a single split screen to see their characters and complete their tasks. Local co-operative games typically do not require an internet connection, but require players to be physically present at the same location.
In conclusion, the difference between online co-operative and local co-operative games is that in online games, players connect with other players over the internet, while in local co-operative games, players play together on the same screen without having to connect with the internet, but require them to be physically present in the same place.
What platforms are co-operative games coming to?
Co-operative games are released on a variety of platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo consoles, as well as PC via platforms such as Steam and the Epic Games Store. Many co-operative games offer the ability to play on both consoles and computers, and some are exclusive to one of these platforms. Ultimately, it depends on the publisher and developer of the game on which platforms they decide to release it.
Couch co-operative games, or local co-operative games, are usually designed to be played on one screen and one console, so they are the easiest to play on consoles. The ability to connect multiple controllers, the convenient placement of buttons on the controllers and the easy-to-use interfaces of the consoles allow for seamless gameplay with friends or siblings on the couch. However, it also depends on the specific preferences and skills of the players and the type of game, as some couch co-operative games may require more complicated coordination between players.
What co-operative games are worth waiting for in 2023?
Redfall
Arkane Studios, famous for their acclaimed games such as Prey, Deathloop, and Dishonored series, developed Redfall – an open-world first-person shooter. The game takes place on the fictitious Redfall Island in Massachusetts, which has been invaded by vampires, resulting in a solar eclipse and cutting off the island from the rest of the world. The vampires dominate the night, while their human followers roam during the day.
Players must play as one of the survivors trapped on the island, navigate the treacherous terrain, uncover the vampires’ plans, and put a stop to them. Redfall offers a captivating and immersive experience as players fight against the vampire forces to save themselves and the island.
Nightingale
Inflexion Games, a Canadian studio led by former BioWare general manager Aaryn Flynn, known for his work on Mass Effect and Dragon Age games, has released its first project, Nightingale. This survival game features a Victorian-inspired quasi-steampunk atmosphere, with distinct costume and equipment designs that enhance its fairy-tale setting.
After a network of portals that linked magical worlds collapses, survivors wander between them in search of their lost city of Nightingale. Though the lands they travel through may appear beautiful, they are filled with hostile magical creatures. The remaining portals offer a chance to find asylum and get closer to the goal, but they could also lead to the depths of a nightmarish labyrinth.
Exoprimal
Exoprimal is a multiplayer shooter developed by Capcom, where players fight against hordes of bloodthirsty dinosaurs. Set in the near future, the game takes place in 2040 when the Earth is under attack by dinosaurs that are destroying cities worldwide. However, hope is not lost, as the powerful corporation Aibius has joined the fight against the prehistoric reptiles.
Aibius has developed an advanced AI called Leviathan, capable of predicting the next targets of the dinosaurs, and created powerful exoskeletons that turn their users into efficient killing machines. In the game, players assume the role of exofighters, soldiers who aim to end the invasion and save the Earth.
Moving Out 2
The sequel to the fast-paced arcade game from 2020, Moving Out 2, features players taking on the role of movers once again. The game is developed by SMG Studio and DevM Games, and published by Team17.
In Moving Out 2, players are employed at FART, a unique removals company, and must complete their tasks as quickly as possible, often sacrificing accuracy. The game is viewed from an isometric perspective and includes a variety of characters to choose from, including more unconventional ones such as a humanoid alligator or a character with a cloud for a head. While these characters differ in appearance, they possess identical skills.
Minecraft Legends
The strategy-action game, Minecraft Legends, is a collaborative effort between Mojang Studios, the franchise’s owners, and Blackbird Interactive, renowned for their work on Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak.
Minecraft Legends takes place in the Minecraft universe, where the Overworld is under the threat of a deadly Piglin invasion. The game requires players to defend the land from Nether attackers.
Using a third-person perspective (TPP), players explore the expansive and varied Overworld, collect resources, construct fortifications, and most importantly, establish friendships and alliances, creating powerful armies and engaging in dynamic battles.
The game’s main focus is on its extensive story campaign, although it also features co-operative and competitive multiplayer modes.
Remnant II
Remnant II is a sequel to the co-op third-person action game Remnant: From the Ashes, enhanced with RPG elements, and developed by Gunfire Games studio, which is also known for titles such as Chronos: Before the Ashes and Darksiders III.
The game takes place in a post-apocalyptic future, where inter-dimensional forces of darkness, known as Root, have invaded and caused the collapse of human civilization. Players must assume the roles of survivors who battle against the armies of evil and attempt to save Earth.
In Remnant II, humanity has a chance to counterattack after the events of the previous game. The heroes venture beyond their planet to fight the Root forces in other worlds and dimensions, in a bid to prevent the armies of darkness from annihilating reality.
The gameplay mechanics are similar to the previous game, with a focus on third-person action and RPG elements. Combat involves the use of both melee and ranged weapons. Although Remnant II is primarily designed for co-op gameplay, solo play is also an option.
These are exciting co-operative games titles that offer a unique experience for players and are worth keeping an eye on as they release over the next few months of 2023.
Cooperative games continue to attract players. Cooperative games allow players to cooperate with other players rather than compete against them. This makes such games often popular with people who want to spend time with friends or with other people in a fun and relaxing way. Cooperative games also regularly offer interesting stories, challenges, and rewards that encourage you to keep playing and exploring the game world. Examples of popular cooperative games include: Minecraft, Among Us, Overcooked or Sea of Thieves.