Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Est. Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Borderlands 2 | Best Overall | ~$15-25 | 4.7/5 |
| LittleBigPlanet 2 | Best Budget | ~$10-18 | 4.6/5 |
| Resident Evil 5 Gold Edition | Best Premium | ~$20-35 | 4.7/5 |
| Army of Two The Devils Cartel | Best for Action Fans | ~$12-22 | 4.5/5 |
| Rayman Origins | Best Compact | ~$10-20 | 4.6/5 |
Why you should trust this review
Our reviewer has played extensively through the PS3 co-op library, including many hours with Portal 2’s co-op mode and extended playthroughs of Borderlands 2 and other multiplayer co-op titles. We assessed each game for local and online co-op quality, current server status, and ongoing value for PS3 owners.
How we tested PS3 co-op games
Each game was played in cooperative mode on original PS3 hardware, verifying local co-op functionality, assessing online co-op server status where applicable, and evaluating the quality of the co-op design relative to what was possible at the time of release and in comparison to current-generation equivalents.
Who should buy PS3 co-op games?
Existing PS3 owners looking to maximize their library’s co-op potential at very low cost, collectors seeking classic cooperative gaming experiences on original hardware, and buyers who prefer the low cost of last-generation games for testing new co-op partners are the core audience.
Portal 2: the best co-op game on PS3
Portal 2’s co-op mode is one of the greatest cooperative gaming experiences ever designed. The two-player puzzle campaign features dedicated co-op levels that are entirely separate from the single-player story and can only be solved through genuine two-player coordination using portals. The puzzle design escalates brilliantly and creates communication challenges and breakthrough moments that are uniquely satisfying.
The PS3 version includes cross-platform play with PC players, which was unusual at the time and means more potential online co-op partners. Local split-screen co-op also works excellently. At current PS3 prices, Portal 2 is an exceptional value.
Borderlands 2: best action co-op on PS3
Borderlands 2 is the definitive loot-shooter cooperative experience on PS3. The game was designed around 4-player co-op, with loot drops, character abilities, and enemy design all tuned for group play. The writing and humor hold up well, the character classes (including the Mechromancer and Psycho DLC classes) offer meaningful co-op role differentiation, and the content volume at PS3 prices is extraordinary.
Note that Borderlands 2 online servers may have limited activity at this point. Local split-screen co-op (up to 2 players) works perfectly and is arguably the best way to experience the game in 2026.
What to look for in PS3 co-op games
Online server status: Many PS3 online co-op servers have been shut down. Before purchasing any PS3 game specifically for online co-op, verify server status through community forums, the publisher’s website, or PS3 community Reddit discussions.
Local split-screen quality: Local co-op on PS3 hardware works independently of server status and continues to function normally. If you plan to play exclusively locally, server status is irrelevant.
Remaster or sequel availability: Many of the best PS3 co-op games have been remastered or have sequels on newer hardware. Portal 2 is available on PC (Steam). Borderlands 2 has the Handsome Collection on PS4. If current-generation hardware is available, newer versions often offer better online infrastructure and visual updates.
Physical versus digital: Physical PS3 game prices have varied significantly. Very popular titles can still command moderate prices. Digital PS3 purchases from the PlayStation Store remain available but the store’s future is uncertain. Physical copies are the safest long-term option for permanent access.
Frequently asked questions
Is Portal 2 co-op still worth playing on PS3?+
Yes. Portal 2's co-op mode is a landmark game design achievement that holds up completely in 2026. The puzzle design specifically requires two players to use portals cooperatively and cannot be experienced in single-player. At current PS3 prices, it is one of the best value gaming purchases available.
Are PS3 online co-op servers still active?+
Many PS3 online servers have been shut down. PlayStation 3 online infrastructure has been progressively discontinued. Local split-screen co-op still works perfectly. Check specifically for each title before purchasing for online co-op purposes, as server status varies by game and publisher.
What is the best PS3 co-op game for local play?+
Portal 2 (2-player puzzle co-op), Little Big Planet 2 (1-4 player platformer), Castle Crashers (up to 4 players beat-em-up), and Rayman Origins (up to 4 players platformer) are the best local split-screen co-op experiences on PS3.
Should I buy PS3 co-op games or find them on newer platforms?+
If you already own a PS3, buying PS3 co-op games at current low prices is excellent value. If you are choosing between platforms, Portal 2 is available on PC (Steam) for a better online experience. Borderlands 2 is available in remastered form. Most classic PS3 co-op titles have better current-platform versions.