The 15 Best Games To Play With Friends Online

There’s nothing quite like playing a game with your friends. However, choosing the perfect games to play with friends online can be challenging, especially when everyone has different preferences and playstyles.

In this post, we rounded up the best games to play as a group. We cover a mixture of genres and styles to suit all players so you can get a better idea of the best multiplayer games. Some of our featured games offer custom lobbies, allowing you to play against friends with double the max party size.

The Best Online Games To Play With Friends at a Glance

Struggling for time but want to choose the best online game to play with your friends? Check out our handy table below!

Game	Best for	Rating	Platforms
League of Legends	Groups looking for a classic MOBA experience focused on teamwork and skill expression	78/100 on Metacritic	Windows, macOS
Diablo IV	Groups who love dark fantasy settings, loot grinding, and challenging combat	86/100 on Metacritic	Windows, PlayStation, Xbox
Overcooked 2	Groups who enjoy frantic cooperative challenges	81/100 on Metacritic	Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
Rocket League	Friends seeking a competitive yet lighthearted sports game	85/100 on Metacritic	Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
Jackbox Games	Friends looking for a virtual party game night with creative and hilarious challenges	78/100 on Metacritic	Windows, macOS, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android
Minecraft	Friends who enjoy creative freedom and open-ended adventures	93/100 on Metacritic	Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android
Deep Rock Galactic	Groups who love cooperative challenges, teamwork, and FPS action	85/100 on Metacritic	Windows, PlayStation, Xbox
Fall Guys	Friends looking for an easy-to-learn game with plenty of friendly competition	81/100 on Metacritic	Windows, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Android, iOS
Among Us	Friends seeking a party game with social interaction and deception	85/100 on Metacritic	Windows, iOS, Android, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
Apex Legends	Groups that thrive on competitive shooters and strategic teamwork	89/100 on Metacritic	Windows, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
Valheim	Friends who enjoy cooperative survival experiences and Norse mythology	9/10 on Steam	Windows, Linux, Xbox
Sea of Thieves	Friends who enjoy open-world exploration, cooperative gameplay, and pirate adventures	69/100 on Metacritic	Windows, Xbox
Fortnite	Groups looking for a game that offers game modes where they can play together or against each other	78/100 on Metacritic	Windows, macOS, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Android, iOS
Call of Duty: Warzone	Groups looking for a game that provides first-person shooter gameplay with various team sizes	79/100 on Metacritic	Windows, PlayStation, Xbox
Valorant	Friends seeking a tactical shooter with a focus on teamwork and ability usage	80/100 on Metacritic	Windows

The Top 15 Online Games To Play With Friends

1. League of Legends

Developer:	Riot Games
Release date:	October 27, 2009
Genre:	MOBA
Platforms:	Windows, macOS
Best for:	Groups looking for a classic MOBA experience focused on teamwork and skill expression
Gameplay features:	Multiple game modes ranging from 2v2v2v2 to 5v5, purchasable cosmetics, dozens of playable characters, team-oriented gameplay, and various maps depending on game mode

Few games will put your friendship to the test like League of Legends. Regardless of what game mode you choose to partake in, success in the lanes requires communication and teamwork. While there may be times you’re on your own, giving you the perfect chance to show off your mastery with a champion, taking objectives and engaging in team fights is a key part of League’s gameplay.

There are two 5v5 game modes in League, as well as various rotating game modes that can include smaller teams. This includes popular game mode Arena, which pits you and a friend against three other duos. You can even play with up to 10 people by playing in custom game lobbies.

2. Diablo IV

Developer:	Blizzard Entertainment
Release date:	June 6, 2023
Genre:	ARPG
Platforms:	Windows, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X/S
Best for:	Groups who love dark fantasy settings, loot grinding, and challenging combat
Gameplay features:	Action RPG, loot-driven, character classes, open world, co-op multiplayer

Diablo IV reinvigorated the beloved action RPG genre with its dark and immersive fantasy setting. Diablo stands out for its emphasis on cooperative gameplay. You and your friends can choose classes, battle monsters, explore dungeons, and gather loot to make your party stronger. The mixture of combative gameplay and world exploration with deep lore makes it a compelling co-op experience.

The dark fantasy universe is a key highlight, offering a haunting environment that draws you in. You’ll choose between various classes (Barbarian, Sorcerer, Rogue, Druid, or Necromancer), each with unique abilities and skill trees, providing diverse gameplay options.

As the most recent entry into the series, you can expect regular updates to Diablo IV that will keep the experience fresh for you and your friends. While you’ll have some challenges throughout the game, Diablo IV is suitable for those without much actual gaming experience.

3. Overcooked 2

Developer:	Ghost Town Games, Team17
Release date:	August 7, 2018
Genre:	Simulation, Party
Platforms:	Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 1 and 2
Best for:	Groups who enjoy frantic cooperative challenges
Gameplay features:	Cooperative cooking, chaotic kitchens, time management

Overcooked 2 serves up a deliciously chaotic cooking experience that’s a favorite for group play. You and your friends must work together to prepare and serve meals under tight time constraints. Fun and frantic, the game challenges you to coordinate and execute complex orders to keep customers happy.

What makes Overcooked 2 truly special is its ability to turn even the simplest cooking tasks into hilarious races against the clock. The game’s creative kitchens, filled with moving parts and obstacles, require quick thinking and seamless teamwork to keep things running smoothly. The difficulty ramps up as you play, which is great for keeping you and your friends engaged.

Accessible and engaging for players of all skill levels, Overcooked 2 is perfect for game nights with your friends. With so many intense, competitive games out there, Overcooked 2 can be a nice palate cleanser.

4. Rocket League

Developer:	Psyonix
Release date:	July 7, 2015
Genre:	Sports, action
Platforms:	Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Best for:	Friends seeking a competitive yet lighthearted sports game
Gameplay features:	Vehicular soccer, fast-paced matches, car customization

If you’re a fan of both soccer and vehicles, then Rocket League is a fantastic choice for you and your friends. In Rocket League, you’ll compete with your team in a soccer game, with the objective of scoring more goals than the opposing team before the timer runs out. Unlike in actual soccer, though, you won’t be using your feet, but rather a small car with a temporary rocket boost ability.

Rocket League has proven to be a hugely popular online multiplayer game, with both strong casual and competitive scenes of players who continue to jump in daily for car-soccer battles. Regular updates keep the game fresh, and it’s a perfect example of a free-to-play game that manages not to be pay-to-win.

The game is cross-platform, meaning you can play with your friends no matter what platform they’re on. This makes Rocket League highly accessible and convenient for you and your buddies to jump into games together.

5. Jackbox Games

Developer:	Jackbox Games
Release date:	Various, multiple games released since 2014
Genre:	Party
Platforms:	Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 1 and 2, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, iOS, Android
Best for:	Friends looking for a virtual party game night with creative and hilarious challenges
Gameplay features:	Party games, trivia, drawing, writing, social interaction

Jackbox Games has been a staple for party fun since its debut, offering interactive games you can play on your smartphone. It stands out for ease of setup and accommodation of a wide range of players, making it perfect for gatherings and casual game nights. Games span trivia, drawing, and wordplay, ensuring your group will be entertained.

If you’re at a loss over which game to play next with your friends, Jackbox Games is an excellent choice. Its mix of easy-to-learn games and the ability to play with just smartphones makes it a go-to option for casual gaming sessions where everyone can get involved.

6. Minecraft

Developer:	Mojang Studios
Release date:	November 18, 2011
Genre:	Sandbox, survival
Platforms:	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 1 and 2
Best for:	Friends who enjoy creative freedom and open-ended adventures
Gameplay features:	Sandbox, building, exploration, survival, creative modes

What’s better than creating your own world? Creating it with friends! Minecraft allows you and your friends to build a world together, mining resources across the lands and surviving enemy attacks as you go. This diverse gameplay will keep your group hooked for hours as you work together.

There are plenty of popular online games you can play with friends online that encourage cooperation and competitiveness. However, Minecraft offers a sandbox experience that focuses on true, unabridged creativity that’s unrivaled by other free-to-play games out there.

Minecraft has multiple game modes, such as Creative, Survival, and Adventure, depending on the type of experience you’re looking for. The main difference is that Survival introduces a hunger mechanic, features mobs, and requires you to mine for resources you’ll then use to build. Creative, on the other hand, gives you all the blocks from the start with zero mobs to deal with as you build.

Despite being released over a decade ago, Minecraft is still regularly updated with new features, and there are also many popular fan spinoff games, such as Tekkit and Hexxit, to jump into.

7. Deep Rock Galactic

Developer:	Ghost Ship Games
Release date:	May 13, 2020 (full release)
Genre:	First-person shooter (FPS)
Platforms:	Windows, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X|S
Best for:	Groups who love cooperative challenges, teamwork, and FPS action
Gameplay features:	Cooperative FPS, mining, procedural generation, diverse classes

Deep Rock Galactic takes cooperative gameplay to new heights with a unique blend of mining and monster-fighting action. You and your friends will dig through caves, mine resources, and fight alien creatures. You can expect a different experience with every playthrough, making it highly replayable.

The game features a diverse range of character classes, each with distinct abilities and extensive customization options. You and your friends can tailor your roles to suit different playstyles and ensure you’re ready for the challenges of each mission. Caves are procedurally generated, meaning the exploration is fresh every time.

If your gaming group is looking for a memorable adventure of battling aliens and mining resources, Deep Rock Galactic is a fantastic choice. It combines teamwork, exploration, and engaging gameplay mechanics in ever-changing environments. While some may disagree on whether it counts as a true space MMO, it contains many MMO elements while being primarily an FPS game.

8. Fall Guys

Developer:	Mediatonic
Release date:	August 4, 2020
Genre:	Platform, battle royale
Platforms:	Windows, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS
Best for:	Friends looking for an easy-to-learn game with plenty of friendly competition
Gameplay features:	Multiple game modes, purchasable cosmetics, map creation tools, 32-player battle royales

Fall Guys provides a unique take on the battle royale genre by mixing it with platforming. This creates a last-man-standing experience that’s equal parts skill and luck as you race to be the last survivor on an unstable map. 

Overall, the flagship game mode of Fall Guys revolves around single-player action. This means that you can compete against your friends or strangers in a 32-person battle royale. However, there are also team options if you’re looking to team up with a friend rather than win against them.

9. Among Us

Developer:	Innersloth
Release date:	June 15, 2018
Genre:	Social deduction, party
Platforms:	Windows, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
Best for:	Friends seeking a party game with social interaction and deception
Gameplay features:	Social deduction, teamwork, betrayal, spaceship setting

Among Us dropped in 2018 and exploded in popularity soon after. Its distinction from the other popular games of the day was a major factor, focusing on social dedication and lighthearted gameplay in a sea of overdramatic competitive games. Another strong point of Among Us is its simple mechanics, making it a great choice if your friends aren’t experienced gamers familiar with complex mechanics.

In Among Us, your goal is simple: Discover the Impostor among your party. You’ll do this by observing behavior, using security cameras and admin maps to check other players’ locations, and verify alibis as well as witness accounts from other players. The result leads to fun, conspiratorial games that feel immersive in a different way from the many titles out there.

Among Us is cross-platform and available on many platforms, making it easy for your friends to join, no matter which device they have. This, combined with easy mechanics, means it’s a perfect choice if you’re trying to play a game with a group that doesn’t typically play games.

10. Apex Legends

Developer:	Respawn Entertainment
Release date:	February 4, 2019
Genre:	Battle royale, first-person shooter
Platforms:	Windows, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 1 and 2
Best for:	Groups who thrive on competitive shooters and strategic teamwork
Gameplay features:	Battle royale, hero shooter, diverse characters, fast-paced action

Apex Legends burst onto the battle royale scene with a unique twist on the genre, offering a team-based approach where squads of three compete to be the last one standing. It distinguishes itself with its diverse roster of Legends, each equipped with unique abilities that add layers of strategy and tactical depth.

Regular content updates and limited-time events maintain excitement in the game. These updates introduce new Legends, weapons, and gameplay mechanics, ensuring the game remains engaging and fresh. If you and your friends enjoy competitive and dynamic gameplay, Apex Legends is a perfect choice. 

Apex Legends has a large, dedicated player base and boasts regular updates to its roster as well as the maps offered. This ensures that you have a constant stream of fresh updates that keep the experience fresher than other battle royale titles.

11. Valheim

Developer:	Iron Gate AB
Release date:	February 2, 2021 (early access)
Genre:	Survival, sandbox
Platforms:	Windows, Linux
Best for:	Friends who enjoy cooperative survival experiences and Norse mythology
Gameplay features:	Survival, exploration, crafting, base building, boss fights

Valheim is an immersive Viking-themed survival experience with many RPG elements. You and your friends will explore a procedurally generated world, encountering bosses and mobs as you try to build a settlement together. If your group is into Norse mythology and survival games, this entry is an excellent choice for you.

It also offers a deep crafting system where you can build everything from a simple tool to a massive fortress. This sense of progression helps keep you engaged long term and gives you a sense of accomplishment. By exploring the world more, you’ll unlock new resources and abilities.

12. Sea of Thieves

Developer:	Rare
Release date:	March 20, 2018
Genre:	Action-adventure, open world
Platforms:	Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Series X|S
Best for:	Friends who enjoy open-world exploration, cooperative gameplay, and pirate adventures
Gameplay features:	Cooperative pirate adventure, naval combat, treasure hunting, dynamic world

Sea of Thieves is a pirate-themed adventure that’s perfect for cooperative play. In this game, you and your friends embark on epic voyages across a vast and vibrant ocean, hunting for treasure and engaging in thrilling naval combat. The cooperative gameplay emphasizes teamwork, whether navigating treacherous waters, solving intricate puzzles, or battling rival pirates. It’s a great example of an MMO game that isn’t an MMORPG.

Its living world ensures every adventure is unpredictable and memorable. The game’s dynamic weather, procedurally generated encounters, and player-driven events create a constantly evolving experience. No two sessions are the same, providing you with endless opportunities for exploration and excitement.

Regular updates keep Sea of Thieves fresh and engaging, introducing new quests, events, and features to discover. Whether you’re a seasoned pirate or a newcomer to the seas, the game’s blend of cooperative gameplay and ever-changing content makes it a fantastic choice for group adventures and unforgettable escapades.

13. Fortnite

Developer:	Epic Games
Release date:	July 25, 2017 (early access)
Genre:	Battle royale, sandbox
Platforms:	Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 1 and 2, Android, iOS
Best for:	Groups looking for a game that offers game modes where they can play together or against each other
Gameplay features:	Various game modes including a co-op PvE mode and large-scale PvP modes, player-created game mods, 100-player battle royales, purchasable cosmetics

If you and your friends love battle royale games, then Fortnite is a must-try. Fortnite’s flagship game mode is its large-scale PvP battle royale, which features a total of 100 players in a shrinking arena. You can queue up alone or with up to three friends. You can also create a massive team of 16 in Fortnite’s Team Rumble mode.

Don’t worry about getting bored with this game mode, however, as Fortnite offers a variety of other game modes to play with friends. This includes a PvE co-op, a sandbox mode, and more.

For groups looking to play in style, you can also purchase cosmetics in-game. This allows you to match your friends — perfect for climbing to victory together.

14. Call of Duty: Warzone

Developer:	Raven Software, Infinity Ward
Release date:	March 10, 2020
Genre:	First-person shooter, battle royale
Platforms:	Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Best for:	Groups looking for a game that provides first-person shooter gameplay with various team sizes
Gameplay features:	150-player matches, team sizes ranging from solo to quad, rotating game modes, tactical gameplay similar to other Call of Duty titles

From the earliest days of Team Deathmatch, Call of Duty has been a staple among games to play with friends online. With 2020’s debut of Warzone, you can enjoy the same friendly competition with added battle royale game modes. 

Call of Duty’s battle royale can contain up to 150 players per match, and you can play alone or in a group of four. This title also features rotating game modes, giving you a fresh new way to play with friends if you need a break from the grind of large-scale PvP.

15. Valorant

Developer:	Riot Games
Release date:	June 2, 2020
Genre:	First-person shooter
Platforms:	Windows
Best for:	Friends seeking a tactical shooter with a focus on teamwork and ability usage
Gameplay features:	Tactical shooter, 5v5 matches, agent abilities, precise gunplay

Valorant is the premier tactical shooter with a strong emphasis on strategy and team coordination. With a 5v5 format, your group will have to use both tactical skills and character abilities to outwit opponents on different maps and achieve objectives. With its blend of precise gunplay and unique abilities, Valorant offers deep and rewarding competition.

The focus on competitive play is evident through ranked matches (a similar system to the Marvel Rivals rank system) and a thriving eSports scene. Valorant’s structured gameplay tests both your skill and coordination. Regular updates and the addition of new agents keep the game fresh and dynamic, providing players with new strategies and gameplay elements to master.

It’s important to note that Valorant is made by Riot Games, of League of Legends fame. League of Legends is one of the most successful games of all time and has had a massive eSports scene for over a decade. This success gives a reassuring sense to Valorant’s longevity, making it a perfect choice if your group is looking for a new game to play for the long term.

How To Choose the Best Online Games To Play With Friends

Choosing the best online game for you and your group involves several key considerations. Here are some to get you started:

• Gameplay mechanics: Look for games that match the type of gameplay you’re looking for, like fast-paced ability-based action or slower strategic team play.
• Story quality: Find a title that immerses you in the world and narrative so you can understand your place in the story.
• Character development: Seek a game that offers character progression and customization so you can feel more connected to your character.
• Cross-platform capability: Ensure the game you choose can be played with others regardless of platform differences.
• Time investment: Find a game that matches the type of time investment that you and your group are looking for.

Single-player games can be a great way to pass the time, but the best games to play with friends offer immersion and fun gameplay while bringing your group together for quality time. 

When choosing the best game for your friends, you’ll want to decide whether you want a co-op adventure revolving around teamwork or to go head-to-head in a title filled with friendly competition. After finding an online multiplayer game everyone can enjoy, the next step is to dive into your virtual adventure with your friends.

Want even more ways to squad up? Check out free online games and start your next multiplayer adventure today.

FAQ

Have questions about games to play with your friends online? We answer the most common questions you’re likely to have below.

What Are Some Popular Online Games To Play With Friends?

Some popular online games to play with friends include GTA Online, Among Us, Minecraft, Apex Legends, and Valorant. These games offer a variety of gameplay experiences. Whether you’re looking to team up for some fast-paced action or engage in strategic gameplay, there’s a game out there to suit your group.

Do I Need a Gaming Console To Play Online Games With Friends?

No, you don’t necessarily need a gaming console to play online games with friends. Many popular online games are available on PC and mobile platforms.

Are There Any Free Games I Can Play With My Friends Online?

Yes, there are plenty of free games you can play with your friends online. This list covers the best options, including GTA Online, Minecraft, and more.

What Is the Best Online Game for Two Players?

The best online game for two players depends on your preferences, but some great options include Overcooked 2, Minecraft, and Diablo IV.