Introduction

Arcades have always been about social gaming, and nothing beats teaming up with friends for fast-paced, action-packed co-op experiences. From side-scrolling brawlers to intense run-and-gun shooters, co-op arcade games became some of the most beloved and replayable classics in gaming history.

In this list, we count down the top 10 co-op arcade games of all time, ranking them based on gameplay, multiplayer mechanics, and overall legacy.

10. NBA Jam (1993) – The King of Arcade Basketball

One of the most iconic sports arcade games, NBA Jam let players form 2v2 teams and perform gravity-defying slam dunks, outrageous alley-oops, and backboard-shattering moves. The game’s fast-paced, over-the-top gameplay made it a staple in arcades, while its “He's on fire!” commentary became legendary.

Why It’s a Co-Op Classic

• Simple 2-on-2 basketball gameplay that anyone can pick up and enjoy.
• Unrealistic physics and special dunks kept matches exciting.
• Perfect for casual and competitive co-op play.

9. Gauntlet (1985) – The Original Dungeon Crawler

One of the earliest multiplayer co-op arcade experiences, Gauntlet let up to four players choose from a Warrior, Wizard, Elf, or Valkyrie as they fought through dungeons, collected treasure, and battled hordes of monsters. Its cooperative gameplay and need for teamwork set the stage for future multiplayer RPGs.

Why It’s a Co-Op Classic

• Four-player simultaneous action made it a true multiplayer arcade experience.
• Unique character abilities encouraged team coordination.
• Players had to share food and manage resources, requiring real teamwork.

8. Alien vs. Predator (1994) – The Best Sci-Fi Beat ‘Em Up

Alien vs. Predator combined intense action, multiple playable characters, and deep combat mechanics, making it one of Capcom’s finest beat ‘em ups. Players could control two Predators, a cyborg, or a soldier, taking on endless waves of Xenomorphs in fast-paced co-op combat.

Why It’s a Co-Op Classic

• Four unique playable characters, each with distinct abilities.
• Classic Alien and Predator lore, making it a dream game for sci-fi fans.
• Fluid combat and weapon pickups, keeping gameplay exciting.

7. Double Dragon (1987) – The Beat ‘Em Up That Defined a Genre

As one of the first true co-op beat ‘em ups, Double Dragon set the standard for side-scrolling action games. Players controlled brothers Billy and Jimmy Lee, fighting through gangs of street thugs to rescue Billy’s kidnapped girlfriend.

Why It’s a Co-Op Classic

• Two-player brawling action with a simple but effective combat system.
• Introduced weapon pickups, allowing players to fight with bats, whips, and knives.
• Inspired countless co-op beat ‘em ups, including Final Fight and Streets of Rage II.

6. X-Men (1992) – Superhero Mayhem for Six Players

Few arcade games delivered multiplayer chaos like X-Men, which supported up to six players simultaneously. The game let players control Wolverine, Cyclops, Storm, Colossus, Nightcrawler, and Dazzler, using their signature mutant abilities to battle Magneto and his army.

Why It’s a Co-Op Classic

• Six-player action made it one of the largest multiplayer arcade games.
• Unique mutant superpowers added variety to combat.
• Classic X-Men villains like Juggernaut and Sentinels made battles intense.

5. Contra (1987) – The Ultimate Run-and-Gun Challenge

Contra defined the run-and-gun co-op experience, putting two players in control of commandos Bill and Lance as they fought through enemy bases, alien landscapes, and robotic bosses.

Why It’s a Co-Op Classic

• Intense, fast-paced shooting that required perfect teamwork.
• Legendary difficulty made co-op essential for survival.
• Variety of weapons, including spread guns and laser cannons, added strategy.

4. Bubble Bobble (1986) – A Cute but Challenging Co-Op Platformer

Don’t let the adorable dinosaurs Bub and Bob fool you—Bubble Bobble is one of the most competitive and strategic co-op arcade games ever made. Players had to trap enemies in bubbles, pop them, and collect fruit for points.

Why It’s a Co-Op Classic

• Required co-op coordination to clear levels efficiently.
• Over 100 levels, making it one of the longest arcade platformers.
• Secret endings and hidden items encouraged replayability.

3. The Simpsons (1991) – Arcade Beat ‘Em Up Fun for the Whole Family

The Simpsons Arcade Game captured the humor and charm of the animated series, allowing players to fight as Homer, Marge, Bart, or Lisa in a side-scrolling beat ‘em up adventure.

Why It’s a Co-Op Classic

• Four-player co-op action that captured the spirit of the show.
• Hilarious team-up attacks, like Bart and Lisa using a jump rope to take out enemies.
• Classic Springfield locations and enemies, making it a nostalgic trip for fans.

2. Metal Slug (1996) – The Pinnacle of Run-and-Gun Action

Metal Slug is known for its insane action, detailed sprite animations, and over-the-top humor. Players controlled elite soldiers battling enemy forces, using tanks, flamethrowers, and machine guns to wreak havoc.

Why It’s a Co-Op Classic

• Hilarious animations and chaotic battles kept players engaged.
• Tons of weapons and vehicles made every level unique.
• Perfect blend of action, humor, and co-op gameplay.

1. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1989) – The Ultimate Co-Op Arcade Experience

When it comes to co-op arcade games, nothing beats Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Featuring four-player beat ‘em up action, the game let players control Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael as they fought Shredder’s Foot Clan through the streets of New York.

Why It’s a Co-Op Classic

• Four-player simultaneous combat, one of the first arcade games to offer it.
• Fast-paced action, classic boss battles, and iconic TMNT villains.
• One of the highest-earning arcade games of its time, proving its legendary status.

Conclusion

Co-op arcade games defined the multiplayer experience, allowing players to team up, strategize, and take on epic challenges together. Whether it’s the chaotic action of beat ‘em ups, the precision of run-and-gun shooters, or the fast-paced fun of sports games, these top 10 co-op arcade games have stood the test of time, offering some of the best multiplayer gaming moments ever.

Now it’s your turn—cast your vote and let us know your all-time favorite Co-Op arcade game!🕹️

Related Pages

• Best Beat ‘Em Up Arcade Games – The ultimate ranking of arcade brawlers.
• The Evolution of Arcade Shooters – How arcade shooters shaped multiplayer gaming.
• The Best Arcade Fighting Games – The greatest competitive arcade fighters ever made.