• Best Xbox One Local Multiplayer Games
• Local Multiplayer Games On Steam
• Local Multiplayer Games Ps4
• Local Multiplayer Games Switch

• Dec 22, 2020 Even though online multiplayer gaming is on an insane rise these days, there are still gamers who like playing local multiplayer games with their friends and family; and while split-screen and couch co-op games are becoming a dying breed, there are still some awesome games that anyone interested in local multiplayer games should definitely try out.
• Best Xbox Game Pass Co-op Games 2020 (Online and Local) Windows Central 2021. Xbox Game Pass is a glorious service giving access to a couple of a hundred games for a modest monthly fee.

Sony’s PlayStation 2 has a massive library of great games. Including some of those unique and experimental ones that were so common in the sixth generation of consoles.

Oct 14, 2020 15 best local multiplayer games for Android Among Us. Among Us was one of the runaway viral hits of 2020. It’s a pretty entertaining game. A group of between five. BADLAND is a classic platformer game. It’s also one of the few with local multiplayer support. Even though online multiplayer gaming is on an insane rise these days, there are still gamers who like playing local multiplayer games with their friends and family; and while split-screen and couch co-op games are becoming a dying breed, there are still some awesome games that anyone interested in local multiplayer games should definitely try out.

Among them you can find some memorable couch-locked multiplayer experiences of the decade.

Sure, we have some pretty amazing online multiplayer experiences nowadays.

Huge 100-player battle arenas bringing in people from all corners of the world, all fighting to achieve the epic Victory Royale… and yet at times, it can feel as if you’re just shooting at a bunch of bots.

Nothing beats having your friends in the same room, DualShocks in hand, duking it out on a fighter or trying to out-play each-other while practicing the subtle form of subterfuge that it peeking at your opponent’s screen.

So why don’t we go back?

Go plug your dusty PS2 into your miraculously functional CRT TV and join me as we go through the most amazing multiplayer games on the console.

Fighters, shooters, puzzles… there’s something here for everyone, and their friends.

30. Culdcept

I like bringing obscure high-quality games to the forefront when given the chance, so let’s start the list with Monopoly and Hearthstone’s secret love child – Culdcept.

On the surface, this 4-player board game seems pretty simple.

Your goal is to make your way across the board capturing territory and defending it with magical beasts you acquire in the form of cards. And others will follow suit on their turns, trying to undo your hard work until only one is victorious.

It’s perfect for those who find stuff like Mario Party a tad childish or “too easy”.

Not only does the game have surprising complexity, but it’ll take the same commitment and time to finish that you’d expect from a round of Risk.

Game night!

29. Adventures of Cookie & Cream

On the surface this may look like a weird entry, but one mustn’t be scared of new experiences.

This quirky Co-Op platformer stars two colorful bunnies, Cookie and Cream, as they make their way through several treacherous levels that’ll require some quick thinking on your part to clear.

The graphics are meh, and that bizarre art direction seems focused solely on marketing to children.

But its gameplay remains engaging to the very end.

This comes as no surprise considering it was developed by From Software, the studio behind Dark Souls.

Even if you’re not entirely convinced, it warrants a playthrough. And it shouldn’t take you more than an afternoon to clear.

28. Galactic Wrestling: Featuring Ultimate Muscle

There are many wrestling games available on the PS2.

But none of them have the personality and bizarre humor of Galactic Wrestling: Featuring Ultimate Muscle.

And it’s easy to see why!

The source material isn’t only hilarious, but engaging and full of unique characters that(in their weirdness) still manage to resonate with the audience.

This translates pretty well to the game – plus it’s very nice to pull off each character’s incredibly badass super-moves.

You could also play this on the GameCube, but Bandai put considerably more characters into the PS2 version so this one is a win for Sony.

27. Alien Hominid

I’ve always thought that Co-Op games benefit from simplicity.

Which is why Alien Hominid is so fun to play with a friend.

The game plays a lot like the classic Metal Slug, which almost guarantees it to be good.

Except the graphics look like they belong on a flash game… because this was a Newgrounds game before it got picked up for console releases.

Because of this, it’s understandable that it doesn’t have the most sophisticated gameplay.

Still, that doesn’t take away from the fun at all. Plus it’s so short you won’t even get a chance to grow tired of it.

26. Buzz! The Mega Quiz

If you’re having more than a couple of friends over for drinks and all you have at your disposal for entertainment is a PS2, you probably can’t do better than Buzz! The Mega Quiz.

This trivia game starts out friendly-enough, and you can succeed with simple miscellaneous knowledge – but as the game progresses, you’ll notice that wanting to win is a skill in and of itself… and the less-studied among the group will find a way to balance things out.

My advice?

Come up with some rules to turn this into a drinking game. So you’ll all catch a buzz by playing Buzz!

25. Half-Life

Valve’s iconic FPS won’t ever get a third installment, but it did get a port to the PS2 thanks to developer Gearbox.

The game is generally known for its fantastic single-player and memorable story following Gordon Freeman, but it’s far from the only thing it has to offer.

Not only are the head-to-head competitive multiplayer modes great, but it features the fantastic Decay mode which puts you and a friend on a Co-Op campaign starring two female researchers from Black Mesa, parallel to the main story.

Worth a try if you’ve never touched the game before.

24. Dokapon Kingdom

Dokapon Kingdom can be understood as “RPG Mario Party”, but that would be understating the danger this game poses to your interpersonal relationships.

You see, the game’s objective is to be the richest player by the end of the game.

To achieve this you’ll choose one of three classes, find equipment, clear dungeons, and most importantly you’ll completely undermine everyone else by casting debuffs and other impediments on them.

It’s not called “The Friendship Destroyer” for nothing.

Mario Party is small fry in comparison.

To balance things out, this board-RPG features beautiful graphics and cutesy characters to somewhat veil the backstabbing nature of the game.

23. Marvel vs. Capcom 2

Watching Marvel heroes duking it out against characters from many Capcom franchises never gets old, and it’s just as good on the PS2 as it is on current consoles.

It brings together the heroes of Western culture and those of Eastern origin through a common love of over-the-top combos and special attacks.

It’s a match made in heaven!

While criminally unrealistic considering these characters are in completely different power-level tiers, this game is acceptably balanced for a competitive experience.

And its pace and combo-system are easier to get into than something like Guilty Gear.

22. Blood Will Tell: Tezuka Osamu’s Dororo

This wonderful action-adventure game developed by SEGA follows a Japanese samurai with a re-constructed artificial body on a quest to track down 48 demons and take his body parts back from the ghouls.

While the game is based on Osamu Tezuka’s famous Dororo manga, you’ll only get to play as the sly rogue by plugging in a second controller for Co-Op mode.

The thief can’t possibly compare to the protagonist in terms of destructive power, but he’ll contribute to the fighting in his own way.

Play this with anyone who can appreciate the beautiful art direction, deep story, and collectible-hunting.

21. Def Jam: Fight for NY

EA’s Def Jam is one of the most unique and frankly absurd franchises out there.

And its ridiculous concept is exactly what makes it so good to spend an afternoon going at it with your peeps.

For those of you not in the know, Def Jam: Fight for NY is a beat-’em-up starring none other than hip-hop superstars like Flavor Flav, Fat Joe and even Busta Rhymes.

As expected, the game has a stellar soundtrack with many licensed songs in the hip-hop genre. And the combat system is surprisingly engaging.

It’s a pleasure seeing the developers taking the time to make a game with such an obvious selling point actually good.

20. Red Faction II

Playing as a rebel militia in a Mars colony is an aesthetic that’s hard to beat.

And it’s also the perfect setting for a friendly shootout with your chums.

While Red Faction II is a very good shooter to play through alone, it truly shines when it comes to the multiplayer arena.

Both because of its fluidity and its awesome weapons such as the fan-favorite Magnetic Rail Driver, which makes a return from the first installment.

There’s nothing quite like living the anti-government extremist fantasy to let all the political unrest out of your spirit so you can do your taxes in peace.

19. Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus

It’s intense, it’s ridiculously fast-paced, and nigh-impossible to understand for newcomers – yes I’m talking about Guilty Gear.

The Guilty Gear franchise has garnered a cult following over the years.

It’s difficult to determine whether the incomprehensibly complex plot has helped or hampered its progress, but it’s definitely one of its main features.

Regardless, this solid 2D fighter from Arc System Works doesn’t need you to get the plot to enjoy it’s heavy-metal-meets-anime aesthetic and interesting characters.

It’s a must-play if you have a group of friends who’re serious about button mashing. And if you like this one it’s worth keeping up with any future games from the franchise.

18. Capcom vs. SNK 2: Mark of the Millennium

If you’re a fan of flashy combat then you can’t pass up a chance to play Capcom vs. SNK 2.

Even though it’s a bit less varied in character styles than something like Marvel vs. Capcom, the sheer amount of fighters makes up for it in spades.

That said, the quality of the sprites does vary considerably among the 40 characters. To the point where you’ll feel like you’re playing MUGEN on your PC.

Still, that’s far from an issue once you’re in the heat of battle.

And you’re liable to share some laughs with friends over the dissimilarities.

17. Ratchet: Deadlocked

The fourth entry in the Ratchet & Clank franchise (even though it’s missing Clank) is simply an amazing, lighthearted, and quirky third-person shooter.

It’s a game that anyone with a taste for blowing stuff up can enjoy.

Not only does it feature a 4-man split-screen shootout mode, but the possibility to go through the entirety of its campaign in Co-Op.

While the main player controls Ratchet, the second player takes control of a combat bot as they both risk life and limb in massive firefights against hordes of enemies. Like true bros.

The fact that both characters share a bullet pool and weapons roster helps keeps things interesting, forcing each player into different roles depending on the available guns.

16. Bloody Roar 3

Bloody Roar has always been my favorite old-school fighter franchise ever since I played the first installment on the original PlayStation.

And I was very pleased with its first release on the sixth console generation.

While Bloody Roar has always set itself apart from other franchises with its animal transformation mechanics, this entry sets itself apart from the rest of the series in that the developers put a lot more care into making a balanced fighter.

Whether you live for the furry aesthetic or would rather beat one up, this game allows you to do both.

Great, considering common ground is so scarce these days.

15. SSX 3

After the critical success that was SSX Tricky, beloved for its wacky style and intense gameplay, expectations were high for the sequel.

EA Canada delivered.

The game took what made the amazing, twisting racing tracks of Tricky so good and perfected it.

Its graphics were simply stunning back then and the open-world aspect that had you racing down different sides of a single mountain was just magnificent.

If you’re looking for a snowboarding experience on the PS2, you can’t go better than SSX 3.

And this goes double if you’re playing with friends.

14. Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3

Few things are as exciting for a fan of Dragon Ball Z than the Budokai games.

With over 40 characters to choose from, including new additions such as Omega Shenron and the Legendary Saiyan Broly, the third installment in Bandai’s series of DBZ-simulators is ideal for any group of enthusiasts in need of some fun.

Before Budokai Tenkaichi came out on the Wii, you simply couldn’t get a Dragon Ball Z game that was truer to the show than Budokai 3.

13. Twisted Metal: Black

Deep in our hearts, we all want to take part in a destruction derby.

Since doing so in real life is complicated and potentially dangerous to our health, Sony’s Twisted Metal franchise is the next best thing.

With its warped clinically insane characters, high-octane battle vehicles, and destructive weaponry galore, a 4-man free-for-all in Twisted Metal: Black is the perfect cathartic experience for you and your friends after a bad day.

And on the good days?

You can just have fun blowing stuff up with your bestie in the game’s Co-Op campaign!

12. Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance

That said, some of us prefer the more calculated and orderly mayhem of isometric hack’n’slash games such as Diablo or, in this case, Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance.

I mention Diablo because like so many other games in the genre, Baldur’s Gate: DA plays almost identically to the former.

Which is in no way a bad thing.

And while its amazing dark-fantasy storyline is a pleasure to experience by yourself, it can be even better if you get the right friends for some Co-Op action.

11. Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory

Personally I’m a Metal Gear Solid man through and through.

Still, there’s one thing Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory does better than any Metal Gear game – it has a split-screen Co-Op mode, and it’s fantastic.

That may sound completely chaotic for a stealth game.

But that’s precisely where Ubisoft’s genius lies. It works!

In fact, the tension that working in tandem brings to the table is vastly superior to simply cheesing enemies by taking advantage of their basic AI.

What makes it work is, of course, that they took the time to make a parallel campaign for Co-Op rather than just forcing a second player into the main story. Kudos to you, Ubisoft.

10. 007: Everything or Nothing

While it will never reach the relevancy and user-acclaim that GoldenEye did on the previous generation of consoles, EA’s 007: Everything or Nothing remains a very solid FPS with a great multiplayer arena – and the James Bond charm never gets old.

You could also play 007: Nightfire or 007: Agent Under Fire, but this one has considerably better graphics, and Nightfire has terrible bots.

I’d say really all of them are fantastic though(for different reasons).

9. Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks

Midway’s classic fighter had a pretty mediocre run for the entirety of the PS2’s lifespan.

But the one time they dared step outside of their comfort zone, they hit it out of the park.

Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks offers a stellar 3D beat-’em-up experience that’s unlike anything else in the series.

And the best part is you can play through the entirety of Liu Kang and Kung Lao’s adventure along with a friend!

8. Soulcalibur II

Despite there being a Soulcalibur III for the PS2, this gem of a game remains the best in the console.

And according to some, the best of the entire series.

The reason for this lies primarily in how well-balanced the game is, which in turn keeps it fun.

It also has a pretty large character roster which includes veterans like Sophitia and Nightmare, as well as the bizarre addition of Heihachi Mishima from Tekken.

It may not offer Link like in the GameCube version. But it’ll do.

7. Dynasty Warriors 4

The fourth installment in the long-storied Dynasty Warriors franchise featured amazing graphics and expanded gameplay features that made it into one of the most well-received by fans worldwide.

The possibility of going through the campaign’s battles along with a friend was included in the previous release, but developer Omega Force had to learn from their mistakes to make it truly great for DW4.

You may not know this, but the series is loosely based on the Romance of the Three Kingdoms by Luo Guanzhong. Easily one of the finest literary pieces originating in China, which makes it the perfect game to play with your friends from Book Club.

I also covered some of the better games in this series if you’re looking for even more titles to check out(multiplayer or not).

6. Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War

Namco’s Ace Combat franchise is probably the single best aerial dogfight simulator franchise ever, and ACZ: The Belkan War is the best on the PS2.

It serves as a prequel to all other Ace Combat games. It offers an engaging story told through radio chatter and on-screen action to keep you hooked.

The gameplay, while not too different from previous games, is incredibly polished and fluid as well.

Overall the game is a pleasure to play. And it’s even better when you go through the campaign in Co-Op.

5. Contra: Shattered Soldier

Who doesn’t know Contra?

Not only is Konami’s quintessential shoot-’em-up an iconic piece of gaming history, but a very fun and intense game in most of its releases, Shattered Soldier included.

I mean yes, it’s a really hard game – but isn’t it challenge what we seek in videogames?

Plus it’s said that friendships only grow stronger when facing hardship together.

So stop wasting time, grab a friend, and get this badass diesel-fueled adventure rolling!

Best Xbox One Local Multiplayer Games

4. Champions of Norrath: Realms of EverQuest

Despite Baldur’s Gate being the most well-known hack’n’slash RPG by Snowblind Studios thanks to its frankly better story, Champions of Norrath remains the better game.

Local Multiplayer Games On Steam

And I feel this way in terms of gameplay, class variety, and graphics.

Back in the PS2 era this game was more often than not the only thing my geeky friends and I ever wanted to play.

Partly because of its narrative connection to EverQuest, which is one of the most famous and influential MMORPGs of the decade.

It’s fast-paced and very punishing at times, but once you and your squad get the hang of things they’re going to need heavy machinery to pry the DualShock from your addicted hands.

3. Rock Band 2

We can’t all make it past the “garage band” stage in our musical career.

Hell, most of us can’t even get to that point to begin with!

That’s where Rock Band 2 comes in with its still-incredible instrument variety that’ll let you and your friends live the rocker lifestyle from the comfort of your living room.

Guitars, drums, vocals – this has it all!

You really haven’t had a truly tight squad until you’ve jammed together in RB2 at least once, so what are you waiting for?

2. TimeSplitters: Future Perfect

No matter what sixth-gen console we’re talking about, it’s impossible not to mention Free Radical’s TimeSplitters franchise, whether it’s TS2 or Future Perfect.

With an expansive wealth of game modes, wacky characters, many weapons to choose from in competitive multiplayer, not to mention an amazing Co-Op experience, this game will keep you and your chums hooked to the console for hours.

Also make sure not to skip playing Virus mode – it’s the PS2 equivalent of Call of Duty: Zombies or GoW’s Horde mode, and it descends into chaos just as quickly.

1. Star Wars Battlefront II

Wasn’t it obvious?

Before the veritable disaster that were the last couple of entries in the franchise after it was acquired by EA, Star Wars Battlefront II was the measuring stick for large-scale shooters.

It puts players right in the middle of many huge battles that shaped Star Wars history. Such as the battle of Hoth, as one of the many varied and fun-to-play classes.

Space battles are also one of the game’s most exciting features that allow you to board and pilot iconic ships in large-scale skirmishes.

Talk about fan service.

It’s not only the best multiplayer shooter on the PS2, but probably one of the best in the history of gaming. And it might even be the best Star Wars game to date.

The original Game Boy made mulyiplayer fairly cumbersome, requiring two consoles, two copies of any game, and a Link Cable to physically connect

This didn’t prevent developers from coming up with some excellent multiplayer experiences, though. Pokemon Red and Blue come to mind.

If developers managed to come up with these great ideas with all those annoying limitations, it’s no surprise that things are exponentially better in the Internet-connected world of the 3DS. Gone are the days of Link Cables, in are the days of excellent local & online multiplayer!

30. Code of Princess

The Final Fight and Streets of Rage days never ended.

Thugs and criminals simply became something else.

Code of Princess is a rather straightforward side-scrolling beat’em up featuring over-the-top characters, and a fantasy story that never takes itself too seriously.

Setting the game apart from other similar games is the unique addition of role-playing game mechanics.

These allow for customizations of the four main characters, with a lot of flexibility here.

And the massive local+online multiplayer features over 50 playable characters, including all the mobs you’ve defeated during the course of the story mode.

If you can’t beat em, join them!

29. Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance

When your nemesis becomes more powerful than ever, the only choice you have is to become a Master.

Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance details Sora and Riku’s Mark of Mastery exams that allow them to prepare for the inevitable showdown with the resurrected Master Xehanort.

Like previous entries in the series, you’ll be able to explore a variety of Disney worlds as Sora and Riku, fight a lot of enemies, and enlist the help of the Dream Eaters.

These were creatures new to the Kingdom Hearts universe at the time. The Dream Eaters are the main focus of the game’s multiplayer mode called Flick Rush, which pits two teams of Dream Eaters against one another with a battle system powered by card game mechanics.

A fun diversion from the series, even if it’s not what most players expected.

28. New Super Mario Bros. 2

In New Super Mario Bros. 2, Mario has become King Midas, turning everything he touches into gold.

This game doesn’t differ much from the rest of the series. It sports a 2D platforming experience that’s fun for both experts and newcomers.

While most classic power-ups make a return, including Super Mario Bros. 3 iconic Super Leaf, it’s the new Gold Flower that takes the spotlight.

It allows Mario to turn everything around him into gold coins. Scrooge McDuck vibes over here.

Collecting 1,000,000 coins unlocks a super-duper secret, so you’ll definitely need the help of a friend in co-op to collect them as quickly as possible. Two King Midas’ are way better than one!

27. Fire Emblem Fates

When an excellent single-player focused series starts taking its first steps into the multiplayer world, what be the result?

Very good results, of course.

Fire Emblem Fates is definitely among the most controversial entries in the series, mostly due to the game being split into three different titles, ala Pokemon.

The three games, however, are not entirely bad, as map design is a step up from Awakening. And many of the mechanics introduced in the previous game(such as the Pair Up system) have been refined to incredible heights.

Fire Emblem Fates is also remarkable for having introduced online multiplayer into the series, allowing players to put together a team of 5 units, then take on friends and strangers in a variety of well-designed maps.

All so you can prove that your ultra-powerful Lord is truly the hero the world needs.

26. The Legend of Zelda: Triforce Heroes

Is that the Hyrule Field theme you hear in the distance? Maybe.

Despite being part of The Legend of Zelda series, Triforce Heroes plays nothing like the main entries.

Adopting the co-op mechanics seen in of Four Swords, Trifoce Heroes presents an experience geared towards multiplayer. It just offers combat scenarios and puzzles that only make sense when played with others.

Uneven level design and lack of voice chat can make the experience frustrating, especially during online play… but if you have two more friends to join in, you definitely need to Link together in this LoZ title.

25. 3D Sonic the Hedgehog 2

A classic among classics in the palm of your hands.

That’s what 3D Sonic the Hedgehog 2 offers.

This is the same game that fans have come to love since 1992.

It features excellent level design, colorful graphics, and incredibly catchy music. Surprisingly enough, the multiplayer features of the original have been ported over to the 3DS version.

So two players can take on the main campaign as Sonic and Tails, or challenge one another in the Versus mode.

Not the deepest multiplayer experience on the 3DS, but one that deserves to be experienced at least once, no matter the console.

24. 3D Gunstar Heroes

Heroes armed to the teeth, time to move out! And start combining those weapons.

3D Gunstar Heroes is yet another excellent port of a classic SEGA Genesis game that took the run and gun mechanics made popular by Metal Slug to new heights.

It does this with innovative features like the ability to combine two weapons to create a powerful new one, and a health system that made the game more accessible without making it too easy.

These features create an amazing experience that’s even better on the 3DS, thanks mostly to the ability to cycle between all the available weapons. Plus the straight-to-the-point two-player local co-op that makes the experience even more explosive.

23. 3D Streets of Rage 2

These Streets are occasionally dangerous and filled with Rage, but nothing you can’t deal with your trusty 3DS.

3D Streets of Rage 2 is an amazing conversion of the original SEGA Genesis game, featuring exciting side-scrolling street-brawling and a varied playable cast that makes many playthroughs genuinely fun.

The addition of Rage Relay Mode, which allows players to use all of the playable characters in succession, and Fist of Death Mode, a one-hit kill mode that makes every fight a thrilling experience, serve only to improve an experience that is nothing short of amazing… even decades later its original release.

22. Yo-kai Watch 3

Yo-kai Watch is what Pokemon would be if the series took a slightly bolder direction.

What Yo-kai Watch 3 does incredibly well its the setting.

Controlling different main characters, you explore multiple towns including the American-esque St. Peanutsburg. And you collect Yo-kai, spirits that roam the land.

While the story is entertaining enough, exploring the world in search of Yo-kai is what makes the game outstanding.

Mostly thanks to a lot of mini-games and side-activities.

The automated turn-based combat is also quite remarkable, as it comes with some interesting ideas that take advantage of the console’s touch screen.

The good fortune that the Yo-kai bring finally touched the multiplayer mode too, which is no longer limited to local battles only. Now your Yo-kai team can become the best in the world!

21. Resident Evil Revelations

Resident Evil Revelations is not just a fantastic survival-horror game.

It’s also an excellent multiplayer game.

I won’t spend a lot of words on the single-player campaign that saw the return of classic Resident Evil protagonist Jill Valentine, not because it does not deserve it, but because it has to be experienced.

As never before a video game franchise made such as an excellent transition to portable format.

The local and online multiplayer experience also deserves a lot of praise here though.

Raid mode manages to take stages from the single-player campaign, and adapt them to a full-on shooter experience that requires cooperation between players. Not to mention excellent knowledge of both the maps and the arsenal.

The series debut on the 3DS truly couldn’t have been any better.

20. Final Fantasy Explorers

It’s Final Fantasy Explorers time.

Or rather, Final Monster Fantasy Hunter Explorers time.

Final Fantasy Explorers has been influenced by the Monster Hunter series so much, it’s not even funny.

The game allows you to create your own hero and customize him/her to your liking, before venturing out into the wild world to take down monsters. Most of them lifted straight from all other titles in the series.

Customization is definitely the highlight of the game, as you’re able to choose between different Jobs that will change your fighting style and mesh differently with other members of your hunting party.

While the experience is not as challenging as that of Monster Hunter, there are a lot of things that Final Fantasy Explorers does right, making it an excellent alternative spin-off in this classic JRPG series.

19. Minecraft

There’s no such thing as a bad Minecraft experience, even when it’s a little lacking.

The new 3DS version of the popular game offers a decent on-the-go experience, despite being marred by some control issues and obvious graphics downgrading.

The latter is especially annoying, as the reduced draw distance makes Minecraft feel claustrophobic. Which is the exact opposite of what the game needs to be.

Still, creating worlds and crafting items is as fun as it has ever been. And the multiplayer experience has been ported over almost intact in all of its blocky glory.

18. Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D

Welcome to the Jungle, we’ve got fun and games!

Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D is as glorious a comeback could ever be.

Being a straight port of the Wii game, it features the same over-the-top story starring Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong.

Plus it offers an excellent selection of creative and challenging level designs that will put your 2D platforming skills to the test.

And by your skills, I mean yours and that of a friend’s, as the brilliant local co-op mode makes an already excellent platform game even better.

17. Terraria

When you have all the freedom you could ask for, it’s easy to get lost.

Terraria makes sure that you also have fun!

The 3DS port of the popular sandbox game manages to capture the spirit of the original release, giving players a massive 2D world to explore and limitless crafting and adventuring possibilities.

Touch screen controls also allowed the developers to streamline some features like inventory management and map access, giving players some customization options that are not found in the other versions.

The downside is that this version of the game only supports local multiplayer for up to four players. So you may end up exploring the world if you do not have any friends on hand nearby.

Bummer.

16. Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call

Local Multiplayer Games Ps4

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call is a musical celebration of the Final Fantasy series.

And what a celebration it is.

Expanding on pretty much every feature introduced in the original, Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call is a great rhythm game. Really, it’s actually fun to play.

It features a huge song selection that covers not only all the main entries in the series up until Final Fantasy XV, but also spin-offs and other Square-Enix games.

All songs, which can be played through with different control styles including the stylus control style, come with multiple difficulty levels. This will help you hone your skills when you are ready to take on other players in the game’s online multiplayer mode.

Time to start tapping and swiping, these Marlboros aren’t going away by themselves.

15. Star Fox 64 3D

The God of gaming said you shall have no other space adventure beside Star Fox 64 3D. Because it is bloody good!

Despite being a simple on-rails 3D shooter, Star Fox 64 3D is as engaging as it was when it was released on the Nintendo 64.

This 3DS version can mostly thank the varied single-player campaign featuring air, land, and underwater sequences, and the great controls. Which are augmented in the 3DS release with gyroscopic settings that work amazingly well.

The buttery-smooth shooting gameplay shines even brighter in the local multiplayer Battle Mode that offers three arena battles with multiple objectives.

This makes shooting your friends incredibly satisfying. Satisfying for you, not for them.

14. Mario Party Star Rush

Ready your virtual dices, it’s Mario Party time!

Mario Party has always been a very fun multiplayer series. But some issues here and there prevented the games from becoming massive successes.

These issues have been fixed in Mario Party Star Rush, as the game moves at a much faster pace and grants each player a lot more movement freedom.

These enhanced mechanics, however, would mean very little if the mini-games weren’t fun… and thankfully the game fully delivers on this front with a solid selection.

All these options will make your local multiplayer sessions an enjoyable mayhem of taunts and goading. It simply wouldn’t be Mario Party without them.

13. Mario Tennis Open

When tennis is so intense, is it really the right hobby for a stressed-out hero?

This odd Mario sports-themed title is an interesting take on the portable Mario Tennis formula.

It bridges the gap between the multiplayer focus of the home console versions with the solo-oriented experience of the handheld releases.

By placing greater focus on skill, Mario Tennis Open is an intense tennis experience that feels extremely balanced. Especially in the local and online multiplayer modes.

The realism here gives the whole game a depth that was unprecedented to the series up to this point.

12. Metroid Prime: Federation Force

Metroid Prime: Federation Force took the series in a bold, yet divisive direction.

Doing away with the iconic Samus Aran was a brave choice, but what truly put off many players is the co-op focus of the game.

Metroid Prime: Federation Force features an extensive main campaign that up to four players can enjoy together. And with a mission design that favors co-op and makes everything extremely fun if you have a squad of space adventurers always on hand.

If you’re a lone wolf like Samus, however, don’t bother.

Unless you want to know the true meaning of frustration.

11. Tetris Axis

Tetris Axis and the 3DS continue the tradition that began with the original Tetris and the glorious Game Boy in the best possible of ways.

Tetris Axis features over 20 different variations of the classic experience, ranging from the standard Marathon Mode to the crazy Fever Mode, Stage Racer, which turns Tetris into a maze-exploring game. And a tower climber.

While some of the game modes pale in comparison to others, they manage to be incredibly fun in the local and online multiplayer modes.

Up to eight players can join in the fun so there’s plenty of room to party.

Remember the old days of when 2-players Tetris was revolutionary? They’re long gone now.

10. Kid Icarus: Uprising

A comeback has hardly ever been as stylish as Pit’s comeback for Kid Icarus: Uprising.

Kid Icarus: Uprising is among the most unique games ever released on Nintendo 3DS.

It’s a game that could only be possible on the console, thanks to its unique control scheme that requires both traditional and touch controls.

But the fun doesn’t stop with the end of the massive story mode, as Kid Icarus: Uprising features two local and online multiplayer modes: a simple free for all mode, and Light vs Dark, an engaging team event that also hands out rewards for the single-player mode.

Not a simple diversion, but an integral part of an amazing experience that all 3DS owners should experience.

9. Rhythm Heaven Megamix

If you’re looking for something crazy to enjoy on the go, look no further.

Surreal is the best adjective for Rhythm Heaven Megamix.

Feeling more like a compilation of the best the series ever offered, rather than a brand new game, Rhythm Heaven Megamix features a variety of incredibly catchy songs. They require players to tap the A button, and occasionally the B button and the directional pad, in time with the music.

Easy right?

The beauty of Rhythm Heaven Megamix shines even brighter in the local multiplayer mode Challenge Train, which has up to 4 players complete different courses that group together songs from the Story Mode.

I do need to warn you, though: since the game is so addicting, you won’t be getting off this train anytime soon.

8. Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon

It has been some time since Luigi stopped being “just” Mario’s brother.

His ghost hunting skills, after all, are second to none.

Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon doesn’t just feature an excellent single-player campaign, but also a separate multiplayer mode that can be enjoyed both locally and online by up to four players.

ScareScraper comes with a variety of different modes too, that take advantage of Luigi’s unique abilities in very clever ways.

Like Hunter mode, where players must take down all of the ghosts while exploring randomly generated location.

OrChaser Mode, where players use the Poltergust 5000 to track down hidden ghosts.

Starting to feel like a ghostbuster yet?

7. Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition

Another Super Street Fighter IV port?

Yes, and you will love it.

Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition doesn’t offer anything substantially different over the other versions of the game in terms of content, as it features the same character selection and gameplay seen on other consoles.

What truly sets the 3DS version apart from all the others are touch screen controls.

These let you unleash special moves without having to input them, opening up some very interesting combo possibilities that are not normally available.

Ever wanted to unrelentingly Sonic Boom your opponents to death online?

3D Edition is your only chance!

6. Kirby: Planet Robobot

Kirby is back on the 3DS, together with a giant mech that will shake the foundation of the world!

Kirby: Planet Robobot is an excellent entry in the series. And the best on the 3DS for sure, presenting a classic 2D platforming experience enhanced by excellent level design, buttery-smooth controls, and some new mechanics too.

Stuff like the giant mech that Kirby can control at times to defeat the mechanized enemies that are threatening the world.

While the single-player campaign is, by itself, more than enough reason to get the game… the multiplayer mode called Team Kirby Clash adds more to the whole experience.

It allows up to three players to team up and take on powerful bosses, all while powering up their abilities after each encounter.

Not quite a role-playing game, but fun nonetheless.

5. Pokemon X & Y

If Pokemon X & Y were actual Pokemon, they would be the Mega Evolution forms of older entries in the series.

Very few entries feel as innovative as Pokemon X & Y.

Mostly thanks to the huge changes in the multiplayer and social aspects of the experience.

While the main story and game progression haven’t seen any big changes, the online multiplayer has been expanded tenfold with players always being a button press away from trading, battling, and showing off their customized character.

It’s still not the Pokemon MMO we’ve been waiting decades for, but it is a step in the right direction.

4. Animal Crossing: New Leaf

Animal Crossing: New Leaf isn’t just a game.

It’s a ritual, and a very addictive one at that.

For the first time ever in the series, you’ll become the mayor of your town.

You’re free to decide how to develop it from scratch!

The plethora of activities makes for an incredibly addictive gameplay loop that begins with town creation and customization, and continues with the online mode.

In multiplayer you can show off your creation, receive visitors both locally and online, explore dream versions of other players’ towns, and enjoy a variety of mini-games with players all over the globe.

All these features make Animal Crossing: New Lead one of the best multiplayer experiences on the 3DS, giving a new meaning to “turning over a new leaf”.

3. Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate

Monster hunting in portable factor has never been as demanding as in Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate.

If you were expecting to see an easier experience in Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate, you will be disappointed.

Once again, it will demand hours upon hours of dedication to start to feel rewards.

But these hours will always be filled with fun.

The series’ usual gameplay loop that sees you go after gargantuan beasts, has been enhanced here with improved area designs and environmental variations of unique monsters.

And these new monsters can unleash special abilities that are designed specifically around the location they’re found. Neat!

So danger will be in higher supply than ever, always around the corner.

But your squad will just have to keep going. Just for one more hunt. Just for one more armor set to craft.

2. Mario Kart 7

One word: fun.

Local Multiplayer Games Switch

There’s just no other way to describe Mario Kart 7.

In a series full of standouts, it’s no small feat being among the best entries ever released.

Mario Kart 7 brought a lot of new features to the table, including gliding and underwater racing mechanics, kart customization, immersive gyroscopic controls and amazing track designs that rival other great titles.

The best thing about Mario Kart 7, however, is the online multiplayer mode.

Not for its features, but for the fact that it works as intended… unlike Mario Kart Wii’s online modes.

The addition of two different Battle Modes is just the icing on the cake for a game that’s a must-have for any 3DS owner.

1. Super Smash Bros. For Nintendo 3DS

Super Smash Bros. For Nintendo 3DS was both a blessing and a curse.

One that deserves to be experienced nonetheless.

Being able to play this excellent fighting game on the go was a dream come true for many fans.

But the fact that it held back the Wii U version is something that disgruntled some, as it forced the developers to make some cuts.

Sorry Ice Climbers, you were way too much.

Still, the game is extremely enjoyable. Mostly thanks to the hectic gameplay experience that’s simple to understand, but way harder to master.

Not to mention the huge character roster, the varied play modes, and the gameplay mechanics that are a huge step up from the disappointing Brawl.

Why is Super Smash Bros. For Nintendo 3DS a curse, then?

Because having such an addictive experience in the palm of your hands will leave you oblivious to the world around you!