Many sports games have been released over the years, and fortunately, developers still make it possible to team up with friends locally.Single-player gameshave their charm, but nothing can replace the feeling of playing alongside your family member or going up against them, either.
Unlikeonline co-op games, where players rely on voice chat to strategize, local multiplayer adds a more personal touch as you can freely speak with a friend or family member. These amazing sports games make local co-op possible and are certain to make game nights feel extra special, and competitive.
Released in March 2025, WWE 2K25 continues 2K’s legacy of wrestling games by featuring new match types, including intergender matches and the bloodline rules match. To set up couch multiplayer, you need more than one controller at hand.
The game allows you to compete against your buddies in various match types, including one-on-one, triple threat, and even a fatal four-way. If you prefer a different challenge, MyGM mode also supports couch co-op, allowing you to compete in brand wars by trying to produce the best show each week.
EA Sports FC25 improves on the previous entry’s visuals and mechanics, making gameplay feel more fluid than before. If you’re looking for some couch co-op fun, then it’s worth giving Rush a try. This is a new mode in the game that allows you to challenge friends locally in 5v5 action.
Although it’s available for Ultimate Team and Clubs, be sure to select the Kick-Off option, as it supports local multiplayer. Choose your preferred team and prepare for some fast-paced fun. Feel free to switch teams before a new match to spice things up. If you’d like to keep things unchanged, then choose the standard 11v11 match type.
Dirt 5 stays true to the series’ tradition of off-road racing fueled by realistic physics. While the game’s introduction of a story-driven single-player mode is a major talking point, players looking to duel each other can still do so.
In Arcade mode, you can battle against each other in each of the game’s ten locations, with over 70 routes to choose from. Up to four players can slug it out in Arcade mode, with custom weather conditions, lap count, and difficulty that make each race an unpredictable thriller.
Released in 2022, Nintendo Switch Sports picks up from where its predecessor, Wii Sports Club, left off. With multiple game modes and support for local multiplayer, this is the ideal way to relax on weekends. Using the Joy-Con controllers the way you would wield a racket or ball, players can see who’s the best in tennis, bowling, and swordfighting.
The game also introduces volleyball, badminton, and soccer into the mix, allowing you to showcase your skills against friends. In local multiplayer, up to four players can face off at the same time. The game also offers online co-op, though the player number is limited to two.
Known for its unconventional mix of arcade-like football and vehicles, Rocket League has remained a popular co-op game since 2015. New updates have further enhanced the game’s mechanics, making it even harder to put down. One of its strongest points is that you may play against friends both locally and online.
To begin couch co-op with a friend, you need two connected controllers. While a PlayStation account is required for both players, the Quick Play mode allows you and your friend to bypass that requirement. It’s worth adding that in Quick Play, the data isn’t saved to the console.
Feeling up for a round of golf? PGA Tour 2K25 simulates the realism of an actual golf match by offering several modes, difficulty levels, and courses. If you’ve got a friend over and want to challenge them, this game allows you to do just that.
Players in the same house can go up against each other in PGA Tour 2K25 by heading over to the Quick Play section. The game allows you to customize various aspects of the match, including match type, course, and rules.
Unlike other games on this list, Gran Turismo 7 takes a unique approach regarding the availability of its local and online co-op modes. Instead of being available upon launching the game, you must first complete a certain number of tasks before unlocking the game’s multiplayer features. It takes around two hours to finish the tasks.
Once available, you can race against a friend by adding a second controller in the Multiplayer Pavilion section. Feel free to select your preferred cars, lap number, and course (with weather conditions and layout) before heading to the track.
Sports gamesare best enjoyed with friends, and MLB The Show 25 is no different. Featuring several gameplay improvements, this game should be on your radar if you play couch co-op often. Whether you’re looking to test the limits of your friendships or just to have fun, the game’s multiplayer features can accommodate your needs.
In local multiplayer, you can face off against three others. The game allows you to tweak the match settings so you have a say in the type of ballpark and timing that is used.
Games like Madden NFL 25 are typically released yearly and are expected to offer a unique feature each year. While that hasn’t always been the case, this particular entry allows you to customize various aspects of the gameplay, like choosing between the Competitive and Simulation playstyles.
When it comes to local multiplayer, Madden NFL 25 supports couch co-op for up to four players. The game offers various multiplayer modes, such as Head 2 Head and Superstar KO. As expected, you can also adjust the match settings, including time, skill level, and injuries, depending on your and your buddy’s preferences.
Who can say no to abasketball game? NBA 2K25 builds on the successes of other entries and allows you to play against friends. When you aren’t shooting for Hall of Fame glory, hopping on local multiplayer with a buddy is the next best thing to do in this game.
The game allows you to play quick matches with friends by visiting the Play Now menu. Once there, you and your friends can choose sides and get right into it. If you fancy a 1v1, 2v2, or 3v3-styled match, then select the Blacktop option. Regardless of the mode, NBA 2K25’s improved gameplay physics will make each match feel more exciting by the minute.
