Top Laboratory Xbox Games: 5 Can't-Miss Split-Screen Champions for the Year 2025
In 2025, couch co-op gaming on Xbox is set to offer a diverse and exciting array of experiences, with a strong emphasis on fun, teamwork, and accessibility for all skill levels. Here are some of the top picks that you won't want to miss.
Diablo IV
For fans of deep, long-lasting dungeon-crawling action, Diablo IV offers a slick drop-in/drop-out local two-player co-op mode, making it an ideal choice for those who want a challenging, story-driven experience working together to defeat demons[1].
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge
This retro-style side-scroller is celebrated for its faithful homage to classic arcade action and enhanced fun in cooperative play, supporting up to 4 local players[1]. With couch and online multiplayer for up to six players, you can team up with friends to save the day as the Turtles.
Overwatch 2
A team-based first-person shooter, Overwatch 2 requires cooperation between different hero roles to be successful. It supports local hub and online play, making it a top choice for teamwork-oriented multiplayer[2].
Gears 5
Known for its explosively action-packed campaign, Gears 5 shines in two-player local co-op, offering a cinematic, polished, and narrative-rich experience[3].
LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga – Deluxe Edition
This family-friendly platformer offers full two-player local co-op and hundreds of characters from all nine Star Wars films. Perfect for casual fun with teamwork[4].
Other notable mentions include NBA 2K24, which offers enjoyable team play, albeit with limited cross-play options focused on the latest consoles[2]. Overcooked! All You Can Eat and Baldur's Gate 3 are popular for local co-op gameplay, offering different styles of teamwork—chaotic kitchen coordination and deep RPG collaboration, respectively[3].
It Takes Two, Overcooked 2, A Way Out, and Don't Starve Together
These games represent a mix of styles—from action RPGs, beat 'em ups, shooters, sports, family-friendly adventures to tactical RPGs—offering excellent teamwork-focused local multiplayer experiences on Xbox in 2025[1][2][3][4].
It Takes Two uses split-screen play and requires teamwork from start to finish, each level bringing fresh mechanics and new powers for players to use. Overcooked 2 features over seventy kitchen levels, with sushi bars and cake shops among the variety, and now supports online co-op for up to six players. A Way Out has no single-player mode and supports Friends Pass, so only one person needs the game while the other can join for free. Don't Starve Together requires teamwork for managing resources, crafting gear, and building shelter, and supports local co-op for up to 2 players on Xbox One, with online co-op bumping that up to 6 players.
New Features and Expansions
New features include dynamic split-screen (It Takes Two), creative stage design (Overcooked 2), classic arcade action with updated controls (TMNT), and a free Friends Pass with A Way Out so only one player needs the game. Don't Starve Together includes Reign of Giants DLC at no extra cost, adding more maps, new characters, and challenging weather.
Fun and Teamwork for All
With these games, couch co-op is growing in 2025, offering new hits like "Split Fiction," more genre variety such as Vampire Survivors and Baldur's Gate 3, and improved accessibility for families and friends who want to play together offline. These games are designed to be accessible for all skill levels, with adjustable difficulty and helpful guides to ensure everyone has a good time. So gather your friends and family, and get ready for a year packed with fun and teamwork!
[1] GamesRadar+ [2] IGN [3] GameSpot [4] Windows Central
