Sometimes you just want to chill and play games by yourself, right? We get it. But honestly, some of the best gaming moments happen when you’re playing with other people. Having a good multiplayer game means you can play it over and over, and it’s a great way to hang out with friends, whether they’re next door or across the country. If you’re looking for some fun games to play with friends online, we’ve got you covered. Our list includes all sorts of games, from fast-paced shooters to silly party games. So, grab your pals and get ready to play!
Key Takeaways
- Playing games with friends online is a fantastic way to connect and have fun.
- There are many different types of games available for online play, catering to various tastes.
- Cooperative games allow friends to work together towards a common goal.
- Competitive games offer a chance to test skills against each other.
- Many popular games now support cross-platform play, so you can join friends regardless of their system.
Apex Legends
Apex Legends is a free-to-play battle royale game that really shook things up when it first came out. Developed by Respawn Entertainment, it drops you and two teammates into a massive arena with 57 other players. The goal, like most battle royales, is to be the last squad standing. What makes Apex stand out, though, is its focus on unique characters, called Legends, each with their own special abilities. Think of it like a shooter where everyone has a superpower, but it’s all grounded in solid gunplay and fast-paced movement.
Playing with friends is where Apex Legends truly shines. The game’s ping system is incredibly intuitive, letting you communicate enemy locations, loot, and intentions without needing to use your mic. This makes coordinating with your squad feel natural, even if you’re not all on voice chat. Plus, with cross-platform play, you can team up with friends regardless of whether they’re on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
- Legend Classes: Each Legend falls into a specific class (Assault, Skirmisher, Recon, Support, Controller), offering different tactical advantages.
- Fluid Movement: The game features smooth sliding, climbing, and zip-line mechanics that allow for dynamic repositioning and combat.
- Team-Based Gameplay: Success heavily relies on working together, combining Legend abilities, and sharing resources.
- Regular Updates: Respawn consistently adds new Legends, weapons, map changes, and limited-time modes to keep the experience fresh.
Apex Legends offers a compelling blend of hero shooter elements and battle royale action. Its emphasis on team synergy and strategic use of abilities sets it apart in a crowded genre. The constant stream of new content ensures that there’s always something new to discover, making it a great choice for ongoing play with a regular group of friends.
While the core battle royale mode is the main draw, Apex also features other game modes that rotate in and out, offering variety for those who want a break from the intense survival matches. The game is free to download and play, making it an easy entry point for any group of friends looking for a competitive yet accessible online experience.
Among Us
Among Us took the world by storm a few years back, and it’s still a fantastic choice for a group of friends looking for some lighthearted deception and chaos. The premise is simple: you and your crewmates are on a spaceship, trying to complete various tasks to keep things running. The catch? One or more of you are impostors, secretly working to sabotage the ship and eliminate the crew.
This game really shines when you’re playing with people you know. The accusations, the desperate pleas of innocence, and the sheer joy of successfully tricking your friends are what make Among Us so memorable. It’s a game that thrives on communication, or rather, the lack of honest communication. Trying to convince your friends you’re not the impostor, or figuring out who is lying, leads to some truly hilarious moments.
Here’s a quick rundown of the roles:
- Crewmates: Your goal is to complete all your assigned tasks and vote out the impostors. Keep an eye out for suspicious behavior!
- Impostors: Your goal is to eliminate crewmates and sabotage the ship without getting caught. Blend in, lie convincingly, and create opportunities for kills.
The social deduction aspect is what makes Among Us so compelling. It’s not just about completing tasks; it’s about reading people, bluffing, and making split-second decisions based on limited information. The game is available on pretty much every platform, including mobile, making it easy for everyone to join in on the fun, regardless of their preferred device. It’s a great way to spend an evening, especially if your group enjoys a bit of playful paranoia. You can find out more about the game’s mechanics and updates on the official Innersloth website.
The beauty of Among Us lies in its accessibility and the emergent social dynamics it creates. It doesn’t require complex strategies or lightning-fast reflexes, but rather a keen sense of observation and a willingness to engage in a bit of playful deception. This makes it a perfect fit for casual gaming sessions where laughter and friendly banter are the main objectives.
Fortnite
It’s hard to talk about online multiplayer games without mentioning Fortnite. This game really blew up a few years back, and it’s still going strong. It’s a free-to-play battle royale where you drop onto an island with 99 other players, grab weapons and items, and try to be the last one standing. What makes Fortnite stand out, though, is its building mechanic. You can quickly construct walls, ramps, and platforms to defend yourself or get a better vantage point. It adds a whole other layer to the shooting and strategy.
Fortnite isn’t just one game mode anymore, either. Beyond the main Battle Royale, there’s "Save the World" (a cooperative survival mode) and "Creative" (where you can build your own islands and games). Plus, Epic Games is always adding new stuff, like live events, concerts, and crossovers with popular movies and other games. It keeps things fresh and exciting.
One of the best things about Fortnite is how many platforms it’s on. You can play with friends whether they’re on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch. It’s pretty wild how many people can jump into a game together, no matter what they’re playing on.
The constant updates and new content mean there’s always something to do or discover in Fortnite, making it a game that can keep you and your friends hooked for a long time.
Here’s a quick look at what Fortnite offers:
- Battle Royale: The classic mode where 100 players fight to be the last one alive.
- Zero Build: For those who prefer pure shooting without the building aspect.
- Creative Mode: Build your own worlds and games, or play in those created by others.
- Save the World: A cooperative PvE (player versus environment) mode.
If you’re looking for a game that’s easy to jump into but has a lot of depth, and you want to play with a wide range of friends, Fortnite is definitely worth checking out in 2025.
Fall Guys
Remember those wacky obstacle course shows you used to watch? Fall Guys is basically that, but you’re one of the contestants. It’s a free-to-play battle royale where you control a little bean character and try to survive a series of chaotic mini-games. Think of it like a giant, silly game show where the last bean standing gets a crown.
When you jump into Fall Guys, you’ll find yourself in a lobby with up to 59 other players. The game is broken down into several rounds, and in each round, a bunch of players get eliminated. You’ll be running, jumping, and maybe even doing a bit of shoving your way through obstacle courses, trying to avoid falling off ledges or getting knocked out by other players. It’s pure, unadulterated fun, especially when things get a little chaotic.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
- Obstacle Courses: These are the bread and butter of Fall Guys. Expect spinning hammers, giant rolling balls, slippery slopes, and all sorts of other challenges designed to send you tumbling.
- Team Games: Sometimes you’ll be grouped up with other players to compete in challenges that require cooperation, like pushing giant eggs into a goal or keeping a ball in your team’s zone.
- Logic and Survival Rounds: Not all games are about speed. Some rounds test your memory or require you to stay on moving platforms without falling off.
One of the best things about Fall Guys is how accessible it is. You can team up with friends no matter what platform they’re on, thanks to crossplay. It’s also free to play, so there’s no barrier to entry. The game gets regular updates with new seasons, challenges, and cosmetic items, so there’s always something fresh to check out. It’s the perfect game to jump into with a group of friends when you just want to laugh and have a good time without taking things too seriously.
Rocket League
Rocket League is that game where you play soccer, but with cars. Seriously, that’s the core idea, and it’s surprisingly addictive. You control these souped-up rocket-powered vehicles and try to smack a giant ball into the opposing team’s goal. It sounds simple, and honestly, picking it up is pretty easy. You can jump into a match and start bumping cars around pretty quickly.
But don’t let that simplicity fool you. There’s a whole lot of depth here. Mastering aerial maneuvers, precise shots, and team plays takes a serious amount of practice. It’s one of those games where you can see yourself getting better with every session. The physics engine is a big part of it; the way the ball bounces and cars collide feels realistic enough to be challenging but also leads to some hilarious, unexpected moments.
One of the best things about Rocket League is how well it works with friends. You can play in various team sizes, from one-on-one duels to chaotic four-on-four matches. Coordinating passes, setting up defensive plays, or just going for a wild offensive push with your buddies is a blast. Plus, with cross-play support, you don’t have to worry about what platform your friends are on – everyone can join the fun.
The game offers a free-to-play model, which is a huge plus. This means you and your friends can download it and start playing without any upfront cost. While there are cosmetic items you can buy, they don’t affect gameplay, so it’s a fair experience for everyone.
Here’s a quick look at what makes Rocket League stand out:
- Easy to Learn, Hard to Master: The basic controls are straightforward, but the advanced techniques offer a high skill ceiling.
- Unique Concept: Combining cars and soccer creates a gameplay experience unlike anything else.
- Cross-Platform Play: Play with friends regardless of whether they’re on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, or Switch.
- Variety of Modes: From standard soccer to basketball and hockey-inspired modes, there’s always something new to try.
- Constant Updates: Psyonix regularly adds new content, like cars, customization options, and game modes, keeping the game fresh.
Left 4 Dead 2
When you think about cooperative zombie shooters, Left 4 Dead 2 often comes up. It’s been around for a while, but it still holds its own as a fantastic game to play with friends. The basic idea is simple: you and three other players team up to survive waves of infected, trying to get from point A to point B. It sounds straightforward, and it is, but the execution is what makes it so good.
What really makes Left 4 Dead 2 shine is its AI Director. This system dynamically adjusts the game’s difficulty based on how well your team is doing. If you’re struggling, it might throw fewer special infected your way. If you’re steamrolling through, expect a tougher challenge. This keeps every playthrough feeling fresh and unpredictable.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
- Cooperative Campaign: Work together through several story campaigns, each with its own unique environments and objectives.
- Versus Mode: This is where things get really interesting. One team plays as the human survivors, and the other team plays as the special infected, trying to stop them. It’s a fun twist that adds a competitive edge.
- Survival Mode: See how long you can last against endless waves of zombies in a single location.
- Scavenge Mode: A faster-paced mode where teams compete to collect gas cans to fuel generators.
The real magic happens when you’re coordinating with your friends to overcome overwhelming odds. Whether you’re trying to reach an extraction point or defend a safe house, the communication and teamwork required are immense. It’s a game that rewards planning and quick thinking.
Left 4 Dead 2 is a masterclass in cooperative gameplay. Its focus on teamwork, dynamic difficulty, and replayability makes it a timeless classic that’s still incredibly fun with a group of friends in 2025.
League of Legends
League of Legends, often called LoL, is a massive multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game that’s been around for a while but still pulls in tons of players. It’s a 5v5 game where two teams battle it out to destroy the other’s main base. You pick a character, called a champion, from a huge roster, each with their own special moves and abilities. As you play, you buy items to make your champion stronger, and there are thousands of ways to build your character and play the game.
It might sound complicated, and honestly, it can be, but Riot Games, the company behind LoL, keeps adding ways to make it easier for new players to jump in. The core idea is simple: work with your team to outplay the enemy and destroy their base.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes LoL tick:
- Champions: Over 160 unique champions, each with different roles like tanks, damage dealers, or support. Finding one that fits your playstyle is part of the fun.
- Roles: Players typically take on specific roles on the map, like top lane, jungle, mid lane, bottom lane (ADC), and support. Teamwork and understanding these roles are key.
- Items: You earn gold during matches to buy items that boost your champion’s stats and give them new effects. This adds a huge layer of strategy.
- Objective: The main goal is to destroy the enemy Nexus, but you’ll need to take down towers and inhibitors along the way.
While the learning curve can be steep, the sheer depth and variety in League of Legends mean there’s always something new to learn or a different strategy to try. It’s a game that rewards practice and teamwork, making it incredibly satisfying when you pull off a great play with your friends.
LoL is free to download and play, so if you’re looking for a game with endless replayability and a huge community, it’s definitely worth checking out. The game’s universe is also expanding beyond the game itself, with shows and other media, so there’s a lot to explore.
Counter-Strike 2
If you’re looking for a solid 5v5 tactical shooter that doesn’t cost anything to jump into, Counter-Strike 2 is your game. Valve made the switch from CS:GO, bringing this classic experience to the newer Source Engine. While the core gameplay remains familiar to long-time fans, there are some noticeable improvements that make CS2 feel fresh.
The gameplay is all about precision and teamwork, making it feel more like a sport than a typical action game. Both teams have the same gear, so it really comes down to player skill to win the match. What you can change, though, and what many pros swear by, are your crosshair settings. Getting your reticle just right can seriously make a difference in those clutch moments.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes Counter-Strike 2 stand out:
- Free-to-Play: No cost to download and start playing.
- Tactical Depth: Requires careful planning, communication, and precise aiming.
- High Skill Ceiling: Easy to learn the basics, but mastering the game takes significant practice.
- Thriving Esports Scene: A massive competitive community with professional leagues and tournaments.
Counter-Strike 2 builds on a legacy of competitive FPS gameplay. Its focus on pure gunplay and strategic team coordination means that every round is a test of skill and communication. Mastering the maps, understanding economy management, and executing coordinated attacks or defenses are key to success.
While the core mechanics are similar to its predecessor, the updated engine brings visual enhancements and improved netcode. This means smoother gameplay and a more responsive experience, which is vital in a game where split-second decisions matter.
Destiny 2
Destiny 2 is a massive online shooter that’s been around for a while, but it’s still a fantastic choice for playing with friends. It’s a game that really shines when you team up, whether you’re tackling huge cooperative missions called Raids or jumping into player-versus-player battles. The game has a lot of content, and Bungie, the developer, keeps adding more, so there’s always something new to do.
One of the best things about Destiny 2 is the constant hunt for better gear. You’ll be completing missions, defeating enemies, and winning matches, all with the hope of finding powerful new weapons and armor. This loop of getting stronger is really addictive and makes playing with your friends even more rewarding. The game’s controls are also top-notch, making the shooting feel really good.
Getting started in Destiny 2 can feel a bit overwhelming at first, especially with all the different activities and story elements. But if you can push through that initial learning curve, you’ll find hundreds of hours of fun waiting for you. It’s especially great for playing with a group because many of the game’s most challenging and rewarding activities, like raids and dungeons, require a lot of teamwork.
Here are a few reasons why Destiny 2 is a solid pick for online play:
- Cooperative Raids and Dungeons: These are large-scale activities that demand coordination and communication with your fireteam.
- Loot and Progression: The core gameplay loop involves acquiring better gear to become more powerful, which is always satisfying.
- Crossplay Support: You can team up with friends regardless of what platform they’re playing on (PC, PlayStation, Xbox).
- Free-to-Play Base Game: You can download and play a significant portion of Destiny 2 without spending any money.
While the base game is free, there are also expansions and season passes that offer additional content. If you plan on playing a lot, you might end up spending money on these, but the free content alone is enough to get a good feel for the game and enjoy it with friends.
Grand Theft Auto Online
Even though Grand Theft Auto Online has been around for over a decade, Los Santos remains a really popular place for people to hang out and cause trouble with friends. It’s a game where you can pretty much do whatever you want, and let’s be honest, most of that involves some kind of illegal activity. But hey, being a digital outlaw can be pretty fun, right?
Jumping into GTA Online with your buddies is a unique experience. You’ll find yourselves talking about those crazy car chases, intense shootouts, and daring heists for years to come. The game offers a massive sandbox where you and your friends can create your own stories, whether that’s pulling off elaborate heists or just cruising around the city.
Beyond the main criminal enterprises, there’s a ton of player-made content to explore. You can find custom races, death matches, and all sorts of other competitive events. Plus, the roleplaying servers are a huge draw for many players, especially those who enjoy streaming. People have created some wild, improvised stories within the game world, turning Los Santos into a stage for all sorts of unexpected performances.
Here’s a look at some of the activities you and your friends can get into:
- Heists: Plan and execute elaborate robberies, from small-time convenience store stick-ups to massive, multi-stage bank heists.
- Races: Compete in a wide variety of vehicle races, from street circuits to off-road challenges.
- Business Ventures: Start and manage your own criminal enterprises, like motorcycle clubs or illicit drug operations, and defend them from rivals.
- Custom Games: Create and play custom missions, deathmatches, and other game modes with unique rules and objectives.
The sheer freedom offered in Grand Theft Auto Online is its biggest draw. You and your friends can set your own goals, whether that’s building an empire of crime or simply causing as much chaos as possible. The game constantly gets updates, adding new vehicles, missions, and ways to play, so there’s always something fresh to do.
The real magic of Grand Theft Auto Online happens when you team up with friends to tackle its many challenges. It’s a game that rewards cooperation, planning, and a good sense of humor when things inevitably go sideways.
Game On, Together!
So, there you have it – a look at some fantastic games to jump into with your friends in 2025. Whether you’re looking for intense competition, cooperative adventures, or just a good laugh, the world of online gaming has something for everyone. Remember, the best part of gaming is often sharing those epic wins, hilarious fails, and memorable moments with people you know. So grab your controllers, keyboards, or phones, and get ready to make some new gaming memories together. Happy gaming!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these games great for playing with friends?
These games are awesome for playing with friends because they let you team up, compete, or just have a blast together online. Whether you’re trying to outsmart each other or work as a team, these games make hanging out with your buddies online super fun and exciting.
Do I need a powerful computer to play these games?
Not necessarily! Many of these games are designed to be played on a variety of computers and consoles. Some might need a bit more power, but there are plenty of options that run well even on less powerful systems, so you can likely find something that works for you and your friends.
Can I play these games with friends on different devices (like PC and console)?
Yes, many of these games support cross-play! This means you can team up with friends no matter if they’re playing on a PC, PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch. It makes it way easier to connect and play together, even if you don’t all have the same gaming system.
Are these games free to play?
Some of the games on this list are completely free to download and play, like Fortnite and Apex Legends. Others might require you to buy them, but they often go on sale. Plus, many free games offer tons of fun and content without costing anything.
What if my friends and I like different types of games?
That’s the beauty of this list! It includes a wide variety of games, from fast-paced shooters and strategic battle royales to cooperative adventures and silly party games. You’re sure to find something that everyone in your group will enjoy, even if your tastes are different.
How do I start playing with my friends?
Usually, you’ll need to add your friends using their in-game usernames or platform IDs. Once you’re friends, most games have an option to create a party or lobby that you can invite your friends to. Then, just jump into your favorite game mode together!
