Published on May 27, 2023
Updated on June 25, 2023

20 Best PlayStation 3 Co-Op Games

As we cast our gaze back, it becomes evident that the PS3 was home to some of the best co-op games that offered endless enjoyment and amusement. Whether embarking on adventures alongside a beloved partner, a trusted companion, or a cherished family member, the time dedicated to these games remains etched in our memories as priceless treasures.

During the sixth generation of consoles, cooperative gaming experienced a remarkable surge in popularity, making it one of the most exciting times for gamers who sought collaborative gameplay experiences. As the landscape seemed to sail smoothly toward a prosperous era of video games, the dawn of the seventh generation brought about a significant shift. The once-beloved tradition of couch co-op and split-screen gameplay started to fade away, giving way to the rise of online multiplayer. The allure of gaming with friends in the same physical space began to wane, as players embraced the convenience and connectivity of online interactions. It seemed as though local co-op was no longer the preferred method of engaging with friends in virtual adventures.

However, as time marched on, something unexpected occurred. Couch co-op and split-screen gaming did not fade into obscurity as anticipated. Instead, it managed to survive the changing tides. Even today, as the PlayStation 5 graces our living rooms, it proudly hosts some of the finest couch co-op games available.

Join us as we embark on a thrilling exploration of the top co-op games on the PlayStation 3. Discover a captivating selection of titles, ranging from enjoyable local co-op experiences to exhilarating split-screen challenges.

Table of Contents

Best PlayStation 3 Couch Co-Op Games

The best couch Co-Op games on the PS3. Bear in mind that some of these games can be played via-split screen Co-Op as well.

Lost Planet® 2


2010
About
Release Date
May 11, 2010
Developer
Capcom
Publisher
Capcom
Franchise
Lost Planet
Genre
Third-Person Shooter
Graphics
3D
Perspective
Third-Person
Interaction
Real-Time
Concept
Sci-Fi
Players
Couch Co-Op, Online Co-Op, Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2010-05-11
2010-05-13
2010-05-17
2010-05-20

Lost Planet 2 plunges players into a chaotic sci-fi venture where they battle ferocious monsters and some of the biggest creatures ever encountered in a third-person shooter. Acting as a sequel to Lost Planet Extreme Condition, Lost Planet 2 expands upon its predecessor in various aspects. One of the notable improvements is the inclusion of a captivating co-op experience, allowing up to two players to join forces locally and up to four players to team up online.

One player can hop into a destructive mecha, and start shooting down enemies to kingdom come. While the other player will be busy looking for a rocket launcher that could inflict severe damage to a boss. Either way, if you haven’t played any Lost Planet game before, the second instalment is a blast.

De Blob 2


2011
About
Release Date
February 22, 2011
Developer
Blue Tongue Entertainment
Publisher
THQ
Genre
3D Platformer
Concept
Fantasy
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Australia
PS3 Releases
2011-02-22
2011-02-24
2011-02-25

De Blob may have been an indirect inspiration that led to the making of Nintendo’s Splatoon franchise. both games share a common concept: the joy of colouring everything in sight. In this game, the focus is on revitalizing the environment with vibrant colours while immersing oneself in catchy music. The music not only enhances the experience but also compels players to hum along unconsciously.

The sequel of the game improves upon its predecessor in several significant ways. One notable enhancement is the addition of local or split-screen co-op gameplay. Although two players cannot progress through the campaign together, they have the opportunity to engage in competitive gameplay through a series of time-based challenges.

Dragon's Crown™


2013
About
Release Date
July 25, 2013
Developer
Vanillaware
Publisher
Atlus
Genre
Action RPG
Graphics
2D
Perspective
Side Scroller
Players
Couch Co-Op, Online Co-Op, Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2013-07-25
2013-08-06
2013-10-04
2013-10-10
2013-10-11

Dragon’s Crown is a side-scrolling 2D beat-em-up developed by none other than Vanillaware, the folks behind the uniquely hand-drawn Odin Sphere and Muramasa The Demon Blade.

While the core gameplay revolves around classic side-scrolling beat’em up mechanics, Dragon’s Crown stands out with its robust RPG system. Players have the opportunity to invest time in upgrading their characters, adding a layer of depth and progression to the experience. And with the inclusion of Co-Op which hosts up to four players locally and online, you’re in for a fun brawling time!

Rayman Legends


2013
About
Release Date
August 29, 2013
Developer
Ubisoft
Publisher
Ubisoft
Franchise
Rayman
Genre
2D Platformer
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
France
PS3 Releases
2013-08-29
2013-08-30
2013-09-02
2013-09-03

Rayman Legends, along with its predecessor Rayman Origins, played a crucial role in reviving the side-scrolling platformer genre. The original Rayman game achieved great success upon its release in 1995, amidst a highly competitive landscape of 2D platformers. As the gaming industry shifted towards 3D platformers, Ubisoft made a strategic decision to bring Rayman back to its 2D roots, ensuring that the iconic mascot wouldn’t be left behind by major competitors like Super Mario 64 and Sonic Adventures.

This transition from 3D to 2D proved to be a brilliant move by Ubisoft. Rayman Legends was a masterful fusion of various innovative ideas, resulting in an awe-inspiring experience. The game not only presented stunning modern visuals but also delivered captivating platforming gameplay that kept players engaged. Additionally, the inclusion of co-op gaming within the main story is just the icing on the cake, as up to five players can join in, and finish the campaign together.

LittleBigPlanet™ 2


2011
About
Release Date
January 18, 2011
Developer
Media Molecule
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Franchise
LittleBigPlanet™
Genre
3D Platformer
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
PS3 Releases
2011-01-18
2011-01-19
2011-01-20

LittleBigPlanet 2, an endearing addition to Sony’s lineup of adorable mascots on the PlayStation 3 platform, captures hearts with its charm, relaxation, and innovative gameplay. However, one of its standout features is the addictive local co-op mode, which allows up to four players to embark on imaginative adventures together.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing gameplay session or a fun-filled gathering with friends, LittleBigPlanet 2 offers an immersive experience that will leave you smiling. Dive into the imaginative world of Sackboy and his friends, and let your creativity soar as you enjoy the enchanting local co-op that brings the game to life. If you hadn’t enough, you can always experience the entire franchise as well.

Apache: Air Assault


2010
About
Release Date
November 16, 2010
Developer
Gaijin Entertainment
Publisher
Activision
Genre
Vehicular Combat
Graphics
3D
Perspectives
First-Person, Third-Person
Interaction
Real-Time
Concept
War
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Hungary
PS3 Releases
2010-11-16
2010-11-19
2011-02-23

Apache: Air Assault lets you rain destruction upon your foes as you watch everything in your line of sight reduced to ashes. Take command of different aircraft and engage in an intense combat against a swarm of tanks that litter the screen.

In Apache, prepare to unleash a torrent of destruction upon your enemies as you witness everything in your line of sight reduced to ashes. Take command of various aircraft and engage in an intense combat against a multitude of tanks that populate the screen.

Ratchet & Clank All 4 One™ / Ratchet & Clank Full Frontal Assault™


2011 / 2012
About
Release Date
October 18, 2011
Developer
Insomniac Games
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Franchise
Ratchet & Clank
Genre
3D Platformer
Graphics
3D
Perspective
Third-Person
Interaction
Real-Time
Concept
Sci-Fi
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2011-10-18
2011-10-20
About
Release Date
November 27, 2012
Developer
Insomniac Games
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Franchise
Ratchet & Clank
Genre
3D Platformer
Graphics
3D
Perspective
Third-Person
Interaction
Real-Time
Concept
Sci-Fi
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2012-11-27
2012-11-29
2012-11-30
2012-12-20
2013-06-06

Insomniac Games’ venture into Co-Op gameplay with Ratchet & Clank may not have been universally embraced by some fans of the series. However, it deserves commendation for the different experiences that the company has created with these two iterations of the franchise.

Departing from its 3D platforming roots, All 4 One and Full Front Assault offer exhilarating co-op experiences that push players to their limits. These games bring together up to four players who must collaborate and strategize to overcome a series of platforming and shooting puzzles.

Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection


2009
About
Release Date
February 10, 2009
Developer
Backbone Entertainment
Publisher
SEGA
Franchise
Sonic™
Genre
Compilation
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2009-02-10
2009-02-20

Are you tired of modern games with their fancy graphics and realistic gameplay? Well, fear not! Sonic’s Ultimate Genesis Collection is here to rescue you from the clutches of realism. This incredible compilation of over 40 classic games will transport you back to a time when pixels ruled the world and “blast processing” was a thing.

Prepare yourself for a blast from the past as you select through the various games this compilation has to offer. Get your crew together, snag a bag of Doritos, and brace yourselves for a Co-Op gaming extravaganza that will make you question why you ever let go of your beloved Sega Genesis in the first place. It’s time to bring back the glory days of gaming, one pixel at a time!

Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3


2011 Content Update
About
Release Date
November 15, 2011
Initial Release: February 15, 2011
Developer
Capcom
Publisher
Capcom
Franchise
Marvel vs. Capcom
Genre
2D Fighting
Players
1v1
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2011-11-15
2011-11-17
2011-11-18

Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3 is the perfect edition for fighting game enthusiasts. It boasts a fantastic lineup of your favourite characters from both sides: Marvel and Capcom. Choose the character that suits your playstyle best and hit start.

Summon your inner fighter and challenge your friend to a lightning-fast 2D fighting match. Unleash jaw-dropping combos that send them soaring through the air, or desperately guard as they pummel you with an onslaught of relentless attacks. The battle isn’t over until the commentator belts out those iconic words… “YOU WIN!”

LEGO® Batman™ The Videogame


2008
About
Release Date
September 23, 2008
Developer
Traveller's Tales
Publisher
Warner Bros Games
Franchise
LEGO®
Genre
Action Adventure
Players
Co-Op, Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
PS3 Releases
2008-09-23
2008-10-10
2008-10-15
2008-12-18

Lego Batman manages to capture the essence of the beloved Lego universe in a way that caters to players of different ages. If you have a younger sibling or a bored loved one, it’s an incredible game worth going through together during the weekends.

With a whopping 30 levels to dive into, players assume the roles of the dark knight, Batman and his sidekick, Robin as they unleash their superhero prowess, pummeling enemies, solving puzzles, and collecting precious Lego studs. The joy of teaming up with a friend or family member to take down hordes of villains is truly magical. It not only guarantees a fantastic time but also evokes a sense of camaraderie as you rush to your partner’s aid in the face of adversity. It’s almost like a princess in distress, calling for a hero’s intervention!

Best PlayStation 3 Split-Screen Games

One screen, one game two players.

Twisted Metal™


2012
About
Release Date
February 14, 2012
Developer
Eat Sleep Play
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Genre
Vehicular Combat
Graphics
3D
Perspective
Third-Person
Interaction
Real-Time
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2012-02-14
2012-03-08
2012-03-16
2012-03-23

With its release on the PlayStation 3, Twisted Metal enters the stage as the second reboot of the storied franchise. Staying true to its predecessors, this iteration delivers an awe-inspiring experience that is both captivating and challenging. Those who are used to such games, will find something to enjoy in Twisted Metal.

If the campaign of Twisted Metal proves to be a daunting challenge, fear not! You have the option to call upon a friend to assist you during those trying times via split-screen. This unforgiving game constantly keeps players on their toes, emphasizing the importance of staying alert and focusing on destruction to avoid meeting a catastrophic demise.

Resident Evil 5


2009 バイオハザード5 (Baiohazādo 5)
About
Release Date
March 05, 2009
Developer
Capcom
Publisher
Capcom
Franchise
Resident Evil
Genre
Survival Horror
Concept
Zombie
Players
Co-Op, Couch Co-Op, Online Co-Op, Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2009-03
2009-03-05
2009-03-12
2009-03-13

Resident Evil 5 diverges from the elements that made its predecessors truly terrifying, marking a significant departure for the series. This game could be seen as the starting point where Resident Evil began to deviate from its established survival horror roots, with Resident Evil 6 further accelerating this transformation. However, when viewed as an action-packed shooter, Resident Evil 5 truly shines, and its enjoyment is amplified when playing alongside a friend on the same couch.

Taking on the role of the iconic Chris Redfield, known for his boulder-punching prowess, or the lesser-appreciated Sheva Alomar, players embark on a perilous journey through the treacherous corners of Africa. Their mission is to thwart the sinister plans of Uroboros, an organization seeking global domination. Armed to the teeth, players must navigate through hordes of relentless zombies who will stop at nothing to achieve their nefarious goals.

Rock Band 3


2010
About
Release Date
October 26, 2010
Developer
Harmonix
Publisher
MTV Games
Franchise
Rock Band
Genre
Rhythm
Players
Couch Co-Op, Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2010-10-26
2010-10-28
2010-10-29

Rock Band 3 taps into the superstar soul that resides within you, presenting an opportunity to showcase your rhythmic expertise. It’s a test of skill and talent, but who will emerge victorious in the end? Will it be you, or will your friend claim the ultimate triumph?

Dive into the game’s soundtrack selection using your controller (or guitar?) and groove like a rock star. Just be careful not to get too carried away with the music; you don’t want to miss hitting those vibrant notes on-screen. If you’re feeling ambitious, gather a full band of seven talented individuals and jam together locally or online, because why not embrace the full rockstar experience?

Army of Two: The 40th Day


2010
About
Release Date
January 12, 2010
Developer
EA Montreal
Publisher
Electronic Arts
Franchise
Army of Two
Genre
Third-Person Shooter
Concept
Military
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Canada
PS3 Releases
2010-01-12
2010-01-14
2010-01-15

Army of Two: The 40th Day, while being a forgotten edition in the third-person shooter genre, maintains a sense of disappointment because it was once an outstanding game during the genre’s heyday.

As a two-man army, you find yourself up against overwhelming odds, confronting an army of cruel mercenaries armed to the teeth. With only your trusty guns for protection, you and your friend will unleash a merciless onslaught, delivering your opponents a taste of hell they never expected.

Time Crisis 4


2006
About
Release Date
June 20, 2006
Developer
Nex Entertainment
Publisher
Namco
Franchise
Time Crisis
Genre
Rail Shooter
Graphics
3D
Perspective
First-Person
Interaction
Real-Time
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2007-11-20
2007-11-23
2007-12-20
2008-04-18
2008-04-24

Time Crisis 4, the exhilarating follow-up to the now-forgotten Time Crisis series, takes the thrilling gameplay to new heights. With an improved two-player mode, this game offers an enjoyable experience for rail shooter fans. To fully enjoy the gunplay, owning the GunCon 3 is a prerequisite.

In Time Crisis 4, enemies swiftly appear on-screen, demanding your sharpshooting skills. Your mission is simple: eliminate them all. With the GunCon 3 in hand, you reload your virtual weapon, progress through various areas, and engage in thrilling duck-and-shoot sequences. This fourth instalment in the series may not live up to the same impact left by its predecessors, but it’s still fun, especially with a friend.

Borderlands 2


2012
About
Release Date
September 18, 2012
Developer
Gearbox Software
Publisher
2K
Franchise
Borderlands
Genre
FPS
Concept
Fantasy
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2012-09-18
2012-09-20
2012-09-21

Borderlands 2 pushes players into a relentless world of action, where the primary objectives are looting, shooting enemies, and exploring the expansive surroundings in search of valuable treasures. Whether you prefer tackling the adventure solo or inviting a friend to join you locally, the game’s campaign can be experienced together.

You embark on adventures, collect sought gear, and engage in item trading with four various classes of characters to pick from. Each class brings various powers and playstyles to the table, allowing for diverse strategies and cooperative synergy.

Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Future Soldier™


2012
About
Release Date
May 22, 2012
Developer
Ubisoft Paris
Publisher
Ubisoft
Franchise
Tom Clancy's
Genre
Tactical Shooter
Graphics
3D
Perspective
Third-Person
Interaction
Real-Time
Concept
Military
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
France
PS3 Releases
2012-05-22
2012-05-24
2012-05-25
2012-07-05

Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Future Soldier, developed by Ubisoft, is a thrilling tactical shooter that belongs to the renowned Tom Clancy’s franchise. While the Splinter Cell series focuses on a slower pace, Ghost Recon stands out with its emphasis on tactics and swift executions.

Fortunately, in Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Future Soldier, players can indeed complete the main story together via split-screen co-op. Whether playing locally with a friend or teaming up online with a group of up to four players, the game offers an excellent cooperative experience.

Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed


2012
About
Release Date
November 16, 2012
Developer
Sumo Digital
Publisher
SEGA
Franchise
Sonic™, Sega All-Stars
Genre
Arcade Racing
Players
Multiplayer, Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
PS3 Releases
2012-11-16
2012-11-18
2014-05-15

Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed brings together a delightful cast of your beloved characters from various SEGA series into an exhilarating racing video game. As you gaze at the game’s cover, you might find yourself wondering why Sonic appears five times. Could it be that he has mastered the art of the shadow clone jutsu? We have no idea! Ask SEGA!

In Sonic & All Stars Racing Transformed, the objective is simple: be the first to cross the finish line in races against up to four players on the same screen. If you find yourself falling behind and a friend is leading the pack, well, let’s just say turning off the TV on them can be a surprisingly effective strategy. After all, a little friendly sabotage never hurts, right?

Portal 2


2011
About
Release Date
April 18, 2011
Developer
Valve
Publisher
Valve
Genre
Puzzle
Players
Multiplayer, Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2011-04-20
2011-04-22

Portal 2 the brain-teasing masterpiece, promises to give your cognitive abilities a serious workout. However, you don’t have to face the challenges alone, as you can embark on this puzzle-filled adventure with a friend or a loved one by your side.

In Portal 2, the game’s standout feature lies in its ability to create portals, allowing you to conquer a series of intricate puzzles. As you navigate through complex environments, your mastery of portal placement and timing will be crucial for success. Those who love anything puzzle-oriented will fall in love with Portal 2.

Warriors Orochi 3 Ultimate


2013 Content Update 無双OROCHI2 アルティメット (Musou OROCHI 2 Ultimate)
About
Release Date
September 26, 2013
Initial Release: December 22, 2011
Developer
Omega Force
Publisher
Koei Tecmo
Franchise
Dynasty Warriors
Genre
Musou
Perspective
Third-Person
Concepts
Fantasy, Martial Arts, Samurai
Players
Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2013-09-26
2013-10-03
2014-09-05
2014-09-30
2014-10-01

Warriors Orochi 3, the brainless and chaotic musou epic, is the ultimate choice for that craving non-stop action. This edition stands as the definitive release of the original game, boasting a wealth of new and exciting content worth exploring.

Choose from a wide variety of characters in Warriors Orochi 3 and unleash mayhem upon the enemies littering the screen.. Whether you want to go solo or summon a friend, together you’ll wreak havoc, execute stylish combos, and revel in the sight of enemies trembling in fear as they flee back to their boss.

That’s it for the list. Thank you for reading.

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FreeckyCake

I'm just your average gamer who enjoys hunting hidden gems and underrated games. My love for Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams is like a truck and I recommend that you play it.

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