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While the peak of co-op releases may have come and gone, games that can be played with a friend or two are still in demand. Just see Lethal Company and those inspired by it as examples. It's not a dead format, but older generations were better known for their co-op experiences.
The PlayStation 3 is just one example, and these games all had a release on the classic console. Even better, these co-op games specifically reward exploration via exciting and hidden loot, resource management, and collectibles.
Castle Crashers
Local Co-Op Action With Hidden Loot
Bright colors, silly humor, and simple hack-and-slash combat are perhaps the greatest strengths of Castle Crashers. And, best of all, it can be enjoyed co-operatively with up to 4 players.
Castle Crashers is a side-scrolling beat 'em up. As a result, it's not necessarily focused on exploration; players are always moving forward. However, exploration is rewarded, as there are a variety of hidden weapons/pets that players can find if they're thorough.
Diablo 3
An ARPG With An Emphasis On Loot
Diablo 3 is the third installment in a beloved series of action RPGs and, while Diablo 2 may be looked back on with the most love, it remains a worthwhile experience. Diablo 3 was my first experience with the franchise, and as someone who enjoys both co-op and exploration in video games, it certainly scratched that itch.
In Diablo 3, players spend most of their time crawling through dungeons and battling enemies in large numbers. The fun of the game really comes down to crafting a build, and the variety on offer in this department. As such, it stands to reason that loot becomes the most important part of the game. And, as exploring thoroughly often yields more loot, it's perfect for those looking to explore.
Dead Island
Open-World Zombie Survival With Weapons That Break
Although its gameplay may be somewhat repetitive and its narrative rife with fetch quests, Dead Island remains a nostalgic experience for me. I spent hours running around its island resort, especially co-op. Dead Island is an open-world game, so there's plenty of exploring to be done. But, given its zombie-apocalypse setting, it's appropriately dangerous to explore.
With that said, exploring is still heavily rewarded, as the game features RPG elements; players can earn experience, level up, and find valuable loot as they explore. In addition, the game features a durability system for weapons, encouraging players to constantly be on the lookout for new gear.
Resident Evil 5
A Blend of Action and Survival-Horror That Strains Your Resources
While some may consider Resident Evil 5 the ugly duckling of an otherwise respected franchise, especially upon release, it has become known for its excellent co-op play. In the game, players must fight through a variety of crazed enemies with limited resources, working together to stay alive.
Resident Evil 5 is a personal favorite because it brings the resource management of the previous games and uses it to test the skills and teamwork of players. This is especially so on harder difficulties, which I would definitely recommend. Unfortunately for some, the game only supports two-player co-op.
Borderlands 2
A Co-Op Looter Shooter
Borderlands 2 is an open-world looter-shooter that tasks players with pursuing a main storyline while completing as many side-quests as possible. The game's side-quests are definitely worth seeking out, not only for the extra weapons and experience that they provide. Many side-quests in Borderlands 2 are just good fun to complete.
Additionally, Borderlands 2 was practically built for co-op play. Exploring Pandora is arguably much more fun when done with a friend. In either case, though, Borderlands 2 consistently rewards exploration by providing players with side-quests and additional loot.
LEGO The Lord of the Rings
A Mass of Hidden Collectibles in an Open World
For fans of Middle Earth, open-world exploration, and the accessible co-op gameplay of LEGO games, LEGO The Lord of the Rings is the perfect choice. Featuring a combination of classic LEGO gameplay and an open world to explore, LEGO The Lord of the Rings thrives with its focus on exploration.
And exploring in LEGO The Lord of the Rings is doubly rewarding thanks to its setting; players not only get to explore the iconic world of Middle Earth, but are rewarded with a mass of collectibles and side-quests. For fans of the LEGO game formula and the source material, it's hard to go wrong.
Terraria
An Open-World Survival-Craft Game of Exploration
Terraria is all about exploration. From minute one, players need to get out into the world and explore for resources. Not only that, but players will need to explore thoroughly in order to trigger the game's bosses and eventually beat the game. Terraria can be played alone, but is arguably best enjoyed co-operatively.
Together, players can work as a team to build a thriving town, explore the many caverns beneath the world, and fight the game's bosses. Exploration is almost always rewarded, as there are plenty of monsters and treasure chests out in the world that reward players with loot. Not to mention the resources that can be found and gathered through exploration.
