Best Multiplayer Games That Strengthen Friendships and Rivalries

10 May 2025

Let’s be honest: multiplayer games can either bring people closer together or tear them apart like nobody’s business. One moment, you’re laughing with your best friend over a silly mistake, and the next, you're plotting their digital demise because they just ruined your perfect game plan. But that’s what makes multiplayer games so much fun—they’re a rollercoaster of emotions, strategies, and most importantly, memories.

In this guide, we’re diving into the best multiplayer games out there that can both strengthen friendships and light a spark of friendly (or not-so-friendly) rivalries. Whether you’re looking to chill, compete, or have a full-on battle royale with your squad, these games are tailor-made for you.

1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

The Ultimate Friendship Test

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is THE game for friendship dynamics. You think you know someone? Wait until they hit you with a Blue Shell two seconds before the finish line. This game transforms quiet Sunday evenings into chaotic, laugh-out-loud sessions.

With its wide variety of tracks, characters, and crazy items, Mario Kart levels the playing field so even a newbie can give an experienced player a run for their money. But beware—things get petty fast. Did your best friend just toss a banana peel in your path? Hold that grudge for the next three races.

> Pro Tip: Use local multiplayer for split-screen chaos or take the rivalry online for global competition.

2. Among Us

Trust Issues: Activated

If your group of friends is looking for a game that tests just how much you trust each other (spoiler: you shouldn’t), Among Us fits the bill. This social deduction game is like Mafia but with astronauts and sabotages.

The premise is simple: you’re either a Crewmate trying to complete tasks or an Impostor out to eliminate everyone without getting caught. Friendships get tested when someone swears they "saw you vent" or when you passionately defend an Impostor because you didn’t realize they’ve been toying with you the whole time.

Needless to say, this is where rivalries are born—or resurrected.

3. Rocket League

Soccer Meets Cars (And Pure Chaos)

Picture this: soccer...but with rocket-powered cars. That’s Rocket League in a nutshell. The gameplay is fast, exhilarating, and just the right amount of ridiculous to keep everyone entertained.

This game is perfect for both competitive and casual players. You can play a chill 2v2 match with your best friend or join a ranked queue to challenge other players. Just don’t blame your teammate if they accidentally score an own goal (or maybe do—it’s all part of the fun).

Rocket League is one of those games where teamwork really matters, but let’s face it: sometimes the chaos is what keeps the laughs coming.

4. Overcooked! 2

Kitchen Catastrophes and Laugh-Inducing Madness

Ever wanted to test your teamwork skills in a high-pressure environment? Overcooked! 2 will have you shouting orders, blaming your friends, and ultimately crying from laughter as you try to cook meals in kitchens that are anything but normal.

You’ll deal with shifting platforms, kitchens on fire, and an ever-ticking clock while you scramble to chop, fry, and serve dishes. The best part? Whether you’re playing with seasoned gamers or complete newbies, everyone contributes to the chaos.

Warning: This game can get heated (pun intended), but the shared struggle makes victory all the sweeter.

5. Fortnite

Battle Royale Fun With Friends

Fortnite isn't just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Whether you’re into building forts, outlasting 99 other players, or just messing around in creative mode, this game has something for everyone.

What makes Fortnite special in terms of friendships and rivalries is how versatile it is. You can team up with your crew for a coordinated attack or go solo and unleash your inner competitive beast. But let’s be real—playing together is where the fun’s at. Who doesn’t love reviving their friends after they take a sniper hit?

Plus, with constant updates and collaborations (Marvel, Star Wars, you name it), Fortnite keeps things fresh and exciting.

6. Call of Duty: Warzone

Where Friendships Mean Survival

There’s nothing like the adrenaline rush of landing in Verdansk with your squad, scavenging for weapons, and trying to outwit other players in a battle royale format. Call of Duty: Warzone combines fast-paced action with just the right amount of strategy to make every game feel like a movie-worthy moment.

Communication is key here. If you can’t trust your teammates to cover you while you reload or revive you during a firefight, are they even your friends? Rivalries can also crop up during those tense moments where one person’s poor decision gets the whole team eliminated.

But hey, that’s just more reason to queue up for the next round and prove you’re the MVP.

7. Minecraft

Build Together or Blow Each Other Up

Minecraft is the ultimate sandbox for creativity—and chaos. You and your friends can collaborate to build epic structures, fend off mobs, or explore randomly generated worlds. Alternatively, you can go full troll mode and blow up someone’s carefully constructed castle with TNT.

The beauty of Minecraft is how flexible it is. Want to chill and vibe together while building your dream house? Cool. Want to stage an all-out war with booby-trapped dungeons? Even cooler. Minecraft lets you decide the vibe, which strengthens both your collaborative and competitive sides.

8. Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout

Adorable Mayhem

Playing Fall Guys feels like being a contestant on a game show where everyone’s clumsy, adorable, and hilariously chaotic. The game puts you and your friends through obstacle courses, survival challenges, and team-based mini-games, all while you try to outlast each other.

It’s impossible not to laugh when your best friend gets flung into slime by a giant spinning hammer or when someone celebrates prematurely only to get eliminated last-second. Trust me, this game is pure gold for forming inside jokes and unforgettable memories.

9. FIFA (Series)

From Friendly Matches to Heated Showdowns

Whether you’re playing a casual kickabout or a high-stakes match, FIFA has been a staple for multiplayer gaming sessions for years. There’s something special about scoring the perfect goal after a build-up of precise passes—or trash-talking your rival for missing an open net.

The game’s competitive nature makes it a go-to choice for anyone wanting to prove their skills on the virtual pitch. Sure, you might argue over referee decisions or questionable fouls, but that’s all part of the FIFA experience.

10. Apex Legends

Squad Goals in a Battle Royale

Apex Legends takes the battle royale formula and adds unique characters (called Legends) with their own abilities, giving it a refreshing twist. Playing in teams of three, you and your squad must work together to be the last ones standing.

The game’s ping system makes communication easy, but let’s face it, nothing beats yelling at your friend to "come revive me already” while they’re busy looting. Apex Legends strikes a great balance between strategy and fast-paced action, making it perfect for both casual and competitive players.

Honorable Mentions

- Jackbox Party Pack: Perfect for party nights, these games let you bond over quirky mini-games and hilarious prompts.
- League of Legends: Build team strategies or feed your enemies—it’s all part of the experience.
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Settle disputes with chaotic brawls and prove who’s the ultimate fighter.

Final Thoughts

Multiplayer games aren’t just about wins and losses; they’re about the stories and moments you create with your friends. Whether you're laughing at someone's epic fail or holding grudges over a sneaky betrayal, these games bring people together in unforgettable ways. So grab your controllers, send that invite, and prepare for the madness. Just remember: in the world of multiplayer games, all’s fair in love and Blue Shells.