Local co-op gaming might not be as prevalent as it was in the ’90s, but it hasn’t disappeared completely. Similarly, the puzzle genre continues to thrive, albeit often within indie games that don’t always get mainstream attention.
There are plenty of puzzle games that encourage players to think and collaborate. Some games focus on mechanics, while others incorporate more story-driven elements. Whether it’s about manipulating shapes, following instructions, or exploring physics, the best puzzle co-op games are constantly evolving. Here are six great co-op puzzle games to check out.
6. Shift Happens
All About Co-Op Teamwork
- Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
- Released: September 9, 2015
- Developer/Publisher: Daedalic Entertainment
Designed for two players, Shift Happens offers four stages filled with puzzles that require cooperation. Although players can work together, the game also allows some playful backstabbing, which adds a fun, competitive twist. Despite its minimalist design, the puzzles become more intricate as you progress. However, if you’re looking for a deep narrative, this game might not be for you.
5. Knights and Bikes
A Story-Driven Childhood Adventure
- Platform(s): PS4, PC, Switch, Xbox One
- Released: August 27, 2019
- Developer: Foam Sword
- Publisher: Double Fine
If you’re after a co-op puzzle game with a rich story and compelling characters, Knights and Bikes is the perfect choice. Set on an ancient island, players control childhood friends Nessa and Demelza, along with their pet goose, Captain Honkers. The game features puzzles that require both characters’ unique skills and offers a mix of brain teasers and exploration. Although the puzzles aren’t particularly difficult, the story and adventure make it an enjoyable experience for co-op play.
4. Tick Tock: A Tale For Two
Solve Puzzles Without In-Game Communication
- Platform(s): Android, PC, iOS, Switch
- Released: March 7, 2019
- Developer/Publisher: Other Tales Interactive
In this game, two players work together, either locally or remotely, to escape a world inspired by Scandinavian fairy tales. Created by a clockmaker, this eerie environment presents various puzzles that the players must solve together. Tick Tock: A Tale For Two stands out because it doesn’t allow in-game communication—players must rely on their own methods to talk and work together to complete the game on separate hardware.
3. Death Squared
Block-Moving Mayhem
- Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
- Released: July 13, 2017
- Developer/Publisher: SMG Studio
Death Squared is an addictive co-op puzzle game, suitable for solo players or those who crave co-op action. The objective is simple: move colored blocks to their designated spots. However, the complexity ramps up with the addition of traps and lasers, making coordination and strategy essential. The game features a Story Mode for two players and a Party Mode for up to four, with fresh stages and entertaining dialogue between an AI and a human operator.
2. Ibb & Obb
Gravity-Based Puzzles with No Single-Player Option
- Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Switch
- Released: August 6, 2013
- Developer/Publisher: Sparpweed Games, Codeglue
Ibb & Obb requires two players, as there is no single-player mode. The game’s puzzles revolve around gravity, with two mirrored realms where gravity is inverted. Players must coordinate their movements and communicate constantly to progress through the 15 levels and secret stages. Featuring cute graphics, challenging puzzles, and a soothing electronic soundtrack by Kettel, Ibb & Obb is a perfect game for solving puzzles with a friend.
1. We Were Here Forever
The Ultimate Puzzle Co-Op Game
- Platform(s): PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
- Released: May 10, 2022
- Developer/Publisher: Total Mayhem Games
What sets the We Were Here series apart is the separation of players, who must work together using only a walkie-talkie to solve puzzles and escape a castle. We Were Here Forever expands on this concept with even more immersive settings and intricate puzzles. Players must rely on communication skills to share clues and solve puzzles together. Widely regarded as the best in the series, We Were Here Forever is a must-play for fans of co-op puzzle games.
Each of these games offers a unique take on the co-op puzzle genre, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, whether you prefer story-driven adventures or complex mechanical challenges.
