Published on October 26, 2023,
In the ever-evolving landscape of gaming, 2023 has emerged as a groundbreaking year for turn-based co-op RPG enthusiasts. Traditionally solitary experiences, turn-based RPGs have transformed into engaging multiplayer adventures, offering gamers unique opportunities for collaboration and strategy. From classic RPGs to innovative tactical gameplay, the gaming industry has witnessed a surge in top-tier, AAA co-op turn-based RPGs. Here, we present a curated list of the best turn-based co-op RPGs, promising gamers a year of unparalleled excitement and adventure.
1. Wargroove 2: Revolutionizing Co-Op Campaigns
Available on Amazon
Building upon the success of its predecessor, Wargroove 2 introduces a revolutionary co-op campaign editor, allowing players to create endless turn-based co-op gameplay scenarios. With multiple campaigns readily available, players can embark on diverse adventures, ensuring an ever-expanding universe of strategic challenges and conquests.
2. Temtem: A Pokémon-Inspired Co-Op Adventure
Available on Amazon
For Pokémon enthusiasts seeking a co-op experience, Temtem offers an immersive online campaign where players can explore, train, and battle together. With gameplay reminiscent of the beloved Pokémon series and novel elements, Temtem delivers a delightful co-op experience for hardcore monster training fans.
3. Gloomhaven: Legendary Table-Top RPG Transformed
Available on Amazon
Originating from the legendary table-top RPG, Gloomhaven’s PC adaptation provides an excellent multiplayer mode. Embracing online co-op, players can control mercenaries, immersing themselves in a captivating RPG world. With a console port on the horizon, Gloomhaven promises console gamers an unparalleled co-op RPG experience.
4. Final Fantasy 6: Sharing Control, Crafting Memories
Available on Amazon
Final Fantasy 6 offers a unique twist by enabling players to share control of party members, enhancing the multiplayer dynamic of this classic RPG. While limited to combat, this co-op option allows players to relish the game’s rich storyline together, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience.
5. Dragon Quest 9: Optimal Multiplayer Adventure
Available on Amazon
Designed with multiplayer in mind, Dragon Quest 9 allows players to team up and embark on an unforgettable RPG journey. By linking up with friends, players can enhance their gameplay, transforming generic mercenaries into powerful allies. With multiplayer integration, Dragon Quest 9 stands out as a must-play co-op RPG.
6. Culdcept: Fusion of Strategy and RPG
Available on Amazon
Culdcept combines elements of Magic the Gathering, Monopoly, and RPG gameplay, offering a unique and enthralling experience. Players can engage in both free-for-all and team matches, ensuring exciting gameplay without jeopardizing friendships. With each match offering new cards, Culdcept promises endless strategic possibilities for players.
7. Valkyrie Profile 2: Timing-Based Co-Op Adventure
Available on Amazon
Valkyrie Profile 2 introduces a timing-based co-op system, where players must coordinate their actions effectively. Assigning characters to a second player, this classic JRPG demands active collaboration, adding depth and excitement to the gameplay experience.
8. Final Fantasy Tactics: War Of The Lions: Strategic Co-Op Missions
Available on Amazon
Known for its gripping story and sublime gameplay, Final Fantasy Tactics: War Of The Lions offers co-op multiplayer missions. With 15 challenging rendezvous missions, players can strategize together, selecting a team of three characters to navigate intense battles. This addition provides hours of co-op joy for RPG enthusiasts.
9. Wargroove: Tactical Brilliance in Co-Op
Available on Amazon
Inspired by Advance Wars, Wargroove features an entire co-op campaign, ensuring hours of engaging tactical gameplay for players. With charming characters and ten diverse maps, this title provides a natural starting and ending point for co-op sessions. Custom maps further extend the co-op fun, allowing players to challenge the AI together.
10. Child Of Light: Asymmetrical Co-Op Fairy Tale
Available on Amazon
In Child Of Light, co-op gameplay takes an asymmetrical approach, with the second player controlling a wisp. This innovative system enables both players to actively participate in the adventure, with distinct roles during platforming segments and battles. The cooperative dynamic adds a fresh dimension to this enchanting fairy tale.
11. Brigandine: Grand Edition: Classic Multiplayer Strategy (English Patch Available)
Available online with English patch
Despite being confined to Japan, Brigandine: Grand Edition stands out for its robust multiplayer mode. Supporting competitive, cooperative, and betrayal-filled gameplay, this title offers a wealth of customization options. With an English patch available, international players can explore this classic and experience its diverse multiplayer features.
12. Wasteland 3: Integrated Co-Op Exploration
Available on Amazon
Wasteland 3 delivers a compelling co-op experience within a vast, post-apocalyptic world. Players can interact with the environment, make impactful choices, and shape the narrative collaboratively. While the game’s length demands commitment, the integrated co-op mode ensures a rich, immersive experience for dedicated gaming partners.
13. Divinity Original Sin 2: Masterful Co-Op Adventure
Available on Amazon
Renowned for its depth and storytelling, Divinity Original Sin 2 offers a beautifully implemented co-op mode. Players can explore the world together or split up, each character possessing distinct personalities and development options. Despite the freedom offered, the narrative remains cohesive, ensuring an exceptional co-op RPG experience.
14. Baldur’s Gate 3: Defining Co-Op Excellence
Available on Amazon
Baldur’s Gate 3 stands as a pinnacle of co-op gaming, seamlessly blending turn-based strategy with Dungeons And Dragons-style RPG elements. With split-screen and online options, players can make choices that shape the story, explore independently, and collaborate dynamically. Larian Studios’ masterpiece represents the epitome of co-op excellence in the turn-based RPG genre.
In 2023, the gaming world has witnessed the evolution of turn-based RPGs into immersive co-op adventures, redefining the multiplayer experience. From innovative gameplay mechanics to rich storytelling, these titles offer unparalleled opportunities for collaboration and strategic gameplay. As gaming enthusiasts dive into these captivating worlds, they embark on unforgettable co-op journeys, making 2023 a landmark year for turn-based co-op RPGs.
