Here are some of the best online co-op games you can play with strangers.
1. Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate
Unfortunately, while the current version of Monster Hunter is Worlds, the Switch isn’t powerful enough to support it. It does, however, get Generations Ultimate. This is an older version of Monster Hunter but is still much fun to play.
In this game you’re a monster hunter keen to prove yourself in the world. To do this, you need to seek out, hunt, and slay large beasts while keeping yourself alive. You can play in the village which supplies singleplayer offline hunts or visit the hub for online multiplayer quests. The game has a very distinct design, where the player’s actions are slowed down in order to emphasize control and strategy. It’s also a little complex in its controls, and some people may find them “clunky.” As such, it’s a good idea to try the free demo before buying. Be forewarned: even the demo doesn’t hold back its punches!
2. Diablo 3
Nintendo used to be shy about violent and dark content being published on their consoles, but the release of Diablo 3 on the Switch shows how they’re opening up. If you’re unfamiliar with the game, Diablo 3 is known as an action role-playing game (ARPG). It features the stat-pushing, item-harvesting nature of RPGs but doesn’t use the slow turn-based action like most games in that genre.
Diablo 3 can be played alone, but you can also create a public lobby and allow other adventurers to join you on your quests. This makes for a nice pick-up-and-play game where you can hack and slash at the forces of evil with friends.
3. Capcom Beat ‘Em Up Bundle
If you’re a fan of the old fighters, the Capcom Beat ‘Em Up Bundle allows players to team up online. The bundle contains Final Fight, Captain Commando, The King of Dragons, Knights of the Round and Warriors of Fate. It also contains Armored Warriors and Battle Circuit, which haven’t been released on consoles previously.
The games differ in the maximum amount of players, with Final Fight supporting two players maximum, while Captain Commander can hold up to four.
4. Splatoon 2’s Salmon Run Mode
This entry is a little strange, as the co-op mode, Salmon Run, is not the main focus of the game. The main meat to Splatoon 2 is a 4v4 competitive shooter, and you need to reach level 5 within the main mode in order to unlock Salmon Run.
However, once you’ve done this, you’ll have access to a wave-based survival mode where you and three others have to fight off invading sea creatures while collecting salmon eggs. It’s done very well within Splatoon’s engine, and the enemy designs are very unique.
5. Warframe
Warframe is a multiplayer online sci-fi game where you fight off all kinds of celestial enemies. The game itself can be played entirely on your own, but there’s also the option to team up with friends or strangers to take on dungeons as a group. Even better, the game is free to play, so give it a try before deciding to invest any money into the game.
Work Together, Play Together
There are plenty of competitive online games, but co-op experiences aren’t as common. Thankfully, the Switch does have a nice library of games for you to try. Which game is your favorite? Did we miss a game that should have been on this list? Let us know below.
