Best Online Multiplayer Games to Play in 2024
Every game is better with friends, but the best multiplayer games can take the playing experience to the next level. Multiplayer games online can help us bond with old friends, make new ones, or just give us a place to hang out. The spirit of collaboration and competition lives within this gaming arena, and there’s always something to find.
Updating our best multiplayer games of 2023 to 2024, on this page we want to explore some of the titles that most stand out today. Featuring new releases to older titles updated with additional content, the following games all offer something special that sets them apart. From special gameplay mechanics to recent updates, cross-platform accessibility, and seasonal events, players can expect something special from each game on the following list.
What is the best online multiplayer game right now?
The best multiplayer game is always a matter of taste. It's up to you which title best suits your wants and friend groups, there are no wrong answers!
Helldivers 2
- Release Year: 2024
- Genre: Action, Shooter
- Available Platforms: PC, PlayStation
The biggest unexpected PvE hit of 2024 rocked both the world and the developers with its popularity. This satirical sci-fi shooter has you embrace your Super Earth patriotism as you bravely invade other cultures, destroy everything they hold dear, and make your victorious escape. Remember, just because there’s friendly fire doesn’t make this game PvP!
Stardew Valley
- Release Year: 2016
- Genre: Simulation, Role-Playing
- Available Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android
The 2016 classic returns with a new 1.6 update to bring players back to their farms. This is one of the more casual games to feature online support, as you and your friends work together to achieve your crop, fishing, and livestock goals. With new plants, events, and an additional farm type, fans of chill-out games look no further than Stardew Valley in 2024.
Forza Motorsport
- Release Year: 2023
- Genre: Sim Racing
- Available Platforms: PC, Xbox
One of the world’s biggest sim racing games continues to impress with new updates, content, and online competitive support. Whether you're a fan of classic cars or a more modern specialist, the online matchmaking and races from Forza Motorsport will have you on the edge of your seat. And yes, this does include support for racing wheels too!
Counter-Strike 2
- Release Year: 2023
- Genre: First-Person Shooter
- Available Platforms: Windows, Linux
The new version of the most famous online first-person shooter had a rocky launch, but it's finally starting to shape up in 2024. With better performance, balance, and upcoming cheat prevention, Counter-Strike 2 is finally gearing up to pick up where Global Offensive took off.
Minecraft
- Release Year: 2011
- Genre: Survival
- Available Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo
Over ten years later, one of the multiplayer games with the best social aspects still stays strong. Minecraft sees more updates this year with additional spells, biomes, and materials to work with. It also lets you be as competitive or as friendly as you like, as you try to repress the need to empty lava buckets in the worst possible places.
What multiplayer game has the best community?
If you're playing with friends, every game can have a great community. If you're looking for some of the most diverse and welcoming communities overall, however, Minecraft and Stardew Valley are very friendly standouts.
League of Legends
- Release Year: 2009
- Genre: MOBA
- Available Platforms: Windows, OS X
One of the earliest big MOBAs continues its domination into 2024. Now featuring more than 140 champions, the LoL 2024 season brings with it new characters, new balancing, and a new excuse to rise through the ranks. If you’ve never given LoL a try, it’s free to play, and there’s never been a better time.
What is the #1 PC game?
Overall, it might be LoL or DOTA 2 that holds the record for the most players, but this is again a matter of taste. The number one game is the one that holds the biggest place in your heart, and it's the one you can enjoy the most with friends.
Street Fighter 6
- Release Year: 2023
- Genre: Fighting
- Available Platforms: PS4/5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S
With season one of SF6 now at an end, fans of the new take on this retro gaming classic, have a great chance to jump in and try the new characters. The sixth entry continues to impress with beginner-friendly gameplay that still rewards high-level play. Let's just hope Luke catches some fists in the next balance patch!
What is PvP gaming?
PvP gaming is where you compete directly against other players in a head-to-head. This is called player versus player, and it's different from the more cooperative experiences of PvE, or player versus environment.
Palworld
- Release Year: 2024
- Genre: Survival, Monster Taming
- Available Platforms: Windows, Xbox
This isn't the first time Pokémon with guns has appeared on one of our lists this year, and it won't be the last. Palworld is one of the most popular games now thanks to a fantastic combination of taming monsters, building bases, and surviving against the wilds. Hilarious and fun, Palworld is surely one to watch.
Conclusion
Multiplayer online games offer some of the best opportunities for interactive entertainment. Good multiplayer games let us reconnect with old friends, forge friendships with strangers, and foster the spirit of competition and cooperation.
The above titles easily stand as some of the best in 2024, no matter what type of gamer you are. From a relaxed time tilling the fields to a pulse-pumping race to a departing jump ship, there are many game types in 2024 to cater to you. It’s a great year to be a gamer, and we can’t wait to see what these games do in the months to come.
