What Are the Best Online Two Player Games?
The best online two player games are Split Fiction and It Takes Two for story co-op, Stardew Valley for a cozy shared farm, Rocket League for friendly 2v2 rivalry, and chess on Lichess for a free quick duel. Split Fiction and It Takes Two include a Friend’s Pass, so only one person needs to buy.
Affiliate disclosure: no affiliate links. Last updated: October 2026.
| Game | Style | Platforms | Cost for two |
|---|---|---|---|
| Split Fiction | Story co-op | PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2 | One copy with Friend’s Pass |
| It Takes Two | Story co-op | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch | One copy with Friend’s Pass |
| Stardew Valley | Cozy farming | PC, consoles, mobile | Two copies |
| Rocket League | Competitive sports | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch | Free |
| Minecraft | Sandbox | Almost every platform | Two copies |
| Lichess | Chess | Any browser | Free |
For larger groups, see our best multiplayer games guide.
How We Chose
We picked games built for or excellent with exactly two players online, with stable netcode and a fair cost for both people. We included story, cozy, competitive and free picks so every pair finds something.
Short Verdicts
Split Fiction
A two-player adventure that constantly changes genre. EA explains the Switch 2 version on its official Split Fiction page.
It Takes Two
Award-winning co-op built around teamwork. Each level gives both players different abilities.
Stardew Valley
Build a farm together at your own pace. Great for couples and long-distance friends.
Rocket League
Team up in 2v2 or face each other. Free and quick to start.
Minecraft
Endless building and exploring. Works across devices for mixed-platform pairs.
Lichess
Send a challenge link on lichess.org and play chess in seconds, free and without ads.
Want free options for the two of you?
Our free online multiplayer list covers free games with crossplay on every platform.
See free multiplayer gamesHow to Set Up a Two-Player Online Session
- Check platforms. Make sure the game runs on both devices and supports crossplay if needed.
- Use the Friend’s Pass. For supported games, the buyer invites the friend to download the free pass.
- Add each other. Use the platform or in-game friends list.
- Set up voice. Use in-game chat or a call app.
- Check subscriptions. Consoles may need PS Plus, Game Pass or Switch Online for paid games.
Subscription rules are explained in our online multiplayer guide.
Common Mistakes
- Buying a local-only co-op game for a long-distance friend.
- Both buying a game that has a Friend’s Pass.
- Forgetting crossplay settings when on different consoles.
Connection trouble? Our gaming lag guide covers the fixes.
Need a pick for you and a friend?
Tell us your platforms and what you both enjoy. We will suggest a game.
Ask GamingFixFrequently Asked Questions
What is the top pick for online two player games?
Split Fiction is our top pick for pairs who enjoy story and variety, and only one person needs to buy it thanks to the Friend’s Pass. For a free option, Rocket League in 2v2 or a chess match on Lichess works instantly.
How did you choose these two-player games?
We picked games that shine with two players online, run reliably over the internet and are fair on cost. We covered story co-op, cozy, competitive and free options so different pairs can find the right fit.
Which two-player game suits most pairs?
Stardew Valley suits the widest range of pairs because it is relaxed, easy to learn and works across many devices. It is especially good for couples and friends with different gaming experience.
What is a Friend’s Pass?
A Friend’s Pass lets someone who owns the game invite a friend to play the full game with them online for free. The friend downloads the pass and can only play with the owner. Split Fiction and It Takes Two offer it.
Can we play together on different consoles?
Yes, in games with crossplay, such as Split Fiction, Rocket League and Minecraft. Check each game’s crossplay support and settings. Each player may need their console’s online subscription for paid games.
