Having a partner and friends who share the passion for gaming is a rewarding experience, yet it can be tricky to find a game that garners everyone’s interest.
Frequently, we find ourselves lured by the dazzling promises of AAA titles, only to feel let down by their superficial gameplay or lackluster storytelling. The frustration intensifies when we finally discover a game we genuinely enjoy, only to learn that the multiplayer features are unfortunately region-locked by the AAA studio.
The high cost of AAA games these days makes these mistakes increasingly costly. For this reason, we often gravitate toward AA games, which tend to provide a more fulfilling experience without unnecessary filler.
In identifying the top AA multiplayer games, we defined “AA” as a studio that consists of a moderate-sized team—not as small as indie game developers, but also not large enough to be classified as AAA. We also considered the budget, which should remain significantly lower than the millions typically associated with AAA games.
10 Once Human
Eldritch Horrors Never Looked So Cute
Once Human embodies everything I envision in a game.It allows me to construct bases, cook meals, fish, explore a distorted landscape, and battle bizarre Eldritch horrors—and all of this can be done with friends in tow.
Although the term “free-to-play”often turns gamers away, I’m pleased to say that Once Human is exceptionally enjoyable without requiring any financial investment. Unlike many free-to-play options that pressure you to spend, this game stands out as a genuinely engaging experience.
In Once Human, you assume the role of a Meta-Human capable of thriving in the corrupted Starfall world rife with Deviations. Teaming up with friends, you’ll combat these grotesque entities and collect their forms for combat or base enhancements.
Think of the friendly Deviations as Pokémon—you’ll want to catch them all!
Work collaboratively to build bases, defeat chilling bosses (like a colossal creature born from a woman’s womb), or simply relax, fish, and cook at your home base.
If your interest lies in a multiplayer game crafted by an AA studio with a flair for cosmic horror, Once Human is surely worth your time.
9 No Man’s Sky
Tiny Team, Huge Galaxy
No Man’s Sky boasts one of the most expansive gaming worlds I’ve had the pleasure of exploring. Despite its small development team, Hello Games has managed to create a galaxy that remains largely uncharted by players.
This AA multiplayer game continues to thrive, making it a perfect sanctuary for friend groups who cherish space exploration and uncovering alien mysteries, or simply wish to unwind in a sandbox setting.
A recurring issue within the AAA landscape is that vast game worlds often feel superficial. In contrast, No Man’s Sky ensures there’s always something fresh to discover, construct, or achieve. The developers consistently roll out new content, much of which is offered at no additional cost.
Players find themselves eager to support the game even further, and I’m certainly among them.
8 Outward
Impatient Friends Don’t Apply
Outward scratched my itch for player agency long before Baldur’s Gate 3 entered the scene. This AA multiplayer game transports players to a low-fantasy realm where magic is scarce and danger lurks at every turn.
You’re not confined to a singular path in this game. While some quests have timed elements, you can carve your own story alongside a companion. Whether you choose to pursue a low-key life as a fisherman in Cierzo or brave the harsh desert of Abrassar in search of adventure, the decision is in your hands.
However, keep in mind that the foes in Outward can be quite overwhelming. Based on my own experiences, I recommend playing with friends who exhibit a good deal of patience to truly enjoy what the game has to offer.
7 Remnant 2
Class Builds Empowering Multiplayer
If you revel in games reminiscent of Dark Souls but wish to avoid the hefty AAA price, Remnant 2 may be a great alternative.
The crux of the game lies in selecting your class and abilities. This is where Remnant 2 excels as an AA multiplayer title, as specific classes synergize magnificently. Each class boasts abilities designed not just for individual prowess but to work in harmony with others.
For instance, a Challenger using their Shockwave ability to obliterate foes can be combined with my Gunslinger class, which allows me to fire, reload instantly, and keep up the offensive against any remaining adversaries.
Ultimately, successful gameplay hinges on coordination in Remnant 2.
6 Divinity: Original Sin 2
A Time Before Baldur’s Gate 3
Before Larian Studios received accolades for Baldur’s Gate 3, they were already impressing players through their AA title, Divinity: Original Sin 2. This game, similar to BG3, allows cooperative play with friends.
The unique gameplay mechanism invites players to embody Sourcerers—mages practicing soul magic, which, at the time, is taboo and even illegal. Compounding the experience, the presence of morally ambiguous gods adds layers to the storyline, creating rich narrative intrigue.
To avoid spoilers, I’ll just say that you’ll face decisions throughout the game that might strain friendships by the finale in ways you might not anticipate.
Original Sin 2 is a relentlessly engaging RPG, becoming progressively more riveting as you discover that trust becomes a rare commodity—even among friends.
5 Solasta: Crown Of The Magister
Clunky D&D Port
Upon its release, Solasta: Crown of the Magister was relatively overshadowed by Baldur’s Gate 3. While it also adopts the Dungeons & Dragons D20 system, it takes place in its own distinct narrative universe.
Though not as refined as BG3, it offers a delightful experience for those seeking a D&D-like experience online with friends. The storytelling is captivating, and moments of sharp-witted dialogue abound.
The interactions between party members often give the impression they’re at odds with one another, frequently dismissing each other’s ideas rather abruptly.
Solasta is an AA title that presents its share of imperfections, yet these quirks do little to detract from the overall enjoyment. It can effectively satisfy that AA multiplayer craving until the next RPG gem arises.
4 Palworld
Catch Pokémon Pals With Friends
Pocketpair, the creators of Palworld, perhaps never anticipated the commercial success they would achieve. The intriguing blend of Pokémon with firearms appears to have struck a chord with gamers. Although Pokémon seems intent on overshadowing the studio’s success, for now, it remains an entertaining game to play with friends.
Players can traverse various islands in Palworld, capturing new Pals to utilize against others, or employ them for manual tasks at your base, raising some ethical questions about their treatment. The same can be said for the human NPCs you encounter throughout your journey.
While the narrative may be minimal, the joy lies in the shared experiences among friends. Enthusiasts of cute and friendly creatures will particularly enjoy the grind for better gear and Pals as you uncover new adorable inhabitants to bring back home.
3 Enshrouded
Build Incredible Bases Together
Enshrouded is one of those titles that continually takes me by surprise. This AA multiplayer game invites you to navigate Embervale, a land overtaken by the ominous Shroud entity. Those who fall victim either meet their demise or become part of its growing army.
Combining elements of RPG and survival genres, this title has quickly become a favorite. Players must embark on traditional survival tasks like foraging, building shelter, and combating creepy creatures that emerge once darkness falls.
But the game truly shines in its base-building capabilities. As a voxel game, you can customize structures directly within the environment. Whether you dig into the mountain, craft a tree-top village, or refurbish an existing settlement, creativity knows no bounds.
The immersive detail allows players to construct nearly any structure imaginable, leading my friends and me to craft elaborate temples built into mountainsides. Enshrouded is brimming with potential, and it’s best enjoyed in company with friends.
2 Split Fiction
Are You Fantasy Friend or Sci-Fi Friend?
Termed a “Buddy Game, ” Split Fiction invites you and a close companion to dive into the distinctive universe crafted by the talented AA studio, Hazelight.
The narrative centers on two characters, Mio Hudson and Zoe Foster, who engage in lively debates regarding narrative preferences—Zoe is a fantasy aficionado while Mio leans towards science fiction.
Stuck in the world of their own design, the two must collaborate to navigate a series of puzzles to find their way out. As players, you and your partner are required to work closely.
This game can test and strengthen friendships, as it necessitates strong communication and teamwork. Though it might sound suited for a corporate team-building retreat, the heartfelt narrative will inspire you to champion Mio and Zoe’s teamwork just as much as your own.
Hazelight Studios prides itself on producing unique games that many AAA studios would shy away from. If you’re in search of a one-of-a-kind AA multiplayer experience, Split Fiction should be at the top of your list.
1 It Takes Two
The Ultimate AA Multiplayer Experience
In my experience, It Takes Two stands as one of the finest AA multiplayer games available. The creative talents at Hazelight Studios have crafted a game that deserves even greater recognition for its unparalleled enjoyment.
The story follows Cody and May, a couple on the brink of divorce. When magic intervenes following their daughter’s unwitting discovery, the two find themselves transformed into dolls.
Solving intricate puzzles alongside my partner to help Cody and May reclaim their human forms—and maybe each other—was an absolute joy. Just like in Split Fiction, prepare for frustrating puzzles and mini-games that could spark some tension.
The gameplay oscillates between unique mechanics: we might find ourselves immersed in light RPG elements in one level and reliving a nostalgic spin on Rainbow Road in another. Although both my partner and I are seasoned gamers, It Takes Two effectively serves as a delightful introduction to various gaming genres for newcomers.
In conclusion, It Takes Two encapsulates the best aspects of AA game development while showcasing the richness of multiplayer gameplay.
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