Dreaming of an escape to a video game world both you and your friends can enjoy but pressed for time? In our adult life, it can be hard to get friends together to game, either online or in-person. Games like Stardew Valley are a perfect option. But if your friends have no interest in farming, we have you covered.

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We can all use a little help sometimes, so our savior list is here, packed with casual co-op games tailored for the bustling gamer soul in you. Sprinkled with cooperative fun and short, savory gaming sessions, this list is a ticket to joyland, waiting to whisk you away to realms of quick yet worthwhile gaming experiences. All in the time you and your friends can spare.

10 Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley

RPG Simulation Released February 26, 2016 Multiplayer Local Multiplayer, Online Multiplayer Platform(s) PC, Xbox One, Android, iOS, PS4, Switch Powered by Expand Collapse

Theme/Genre: Farming and life simulation game.

Multiplayer Aspects: Offers cooperative farming where each player maintains a separate cabin on the shared farm. Sessions can be short, and players can hop in or out at any point without disrupting the game.

Jump into the laid-back world of Stardew Valley where you can enjoy the gratifying experience of growing your farm with friends. The game's day-by-day progression system means you can easily hop in for a quick farming session without a hefty time commitment.

It's a game that rewards teamwork and offers a tranquil yet satisfying gaming session every time, be it a quick 15 minutes or an hour. Collaborate with friends to build your agricultural dreamland. Ideal for nature lovers and fans of simulation games, it offers a peaceful retreat from a busy day.

9 Fortnite

Fortnite

Survival Battle Royale Released September 26, 2017 Multiplayer Online Multiplayer Platform(s) PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mobile Powered by Expand Collapse

Theme/Genre: Battle Royale shooter game.

Multiplayer Aspects: Allows for quick, 20-minute max matches in squads or duos. The game adjusts the difficulty based on the number of players, making it easy to keep playing if someone leaves.

Renowned for its fast-paced battle royale mode, Fortnite is the go-to game for quick and exhilarating gaming sessions. Busy gamers can appreciate the short match durations and the simple joy of teaming up with friends for a quick game after a long day.

Moreover, its easy-to-pick-up mechanics make it an accessible game for everyone, guaranteeing fun moments of gameplay, no matter how limited your time is. If you're into dynamic gameplay with a competitive edge, this one is for you, promising fun-filled sessions irrespective of the time you can spare.

8 Phasmophobia

Phasmophobia

Survival Horror Puzzle Released October 29, 2024 Platform(s) PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S Powered by Expand Collapse

Theme/Genre: Cooperative horror game involving ghost hunting.

Multiplayer Aspects: Ideal for 1–4 players, the game allows teams to explore haunted locations. Matches can last up to 30 minutes, and you can easily jump in and out.

Dive into the intense co-op horror experience of Phasmophobia, where even a short session can get your adrenaline pumping. Perfect for busy gamers, it facilitates collaboration and quick problem-solving, with games that can be as short as 15–30 minutes.

This game offers horror enthusiasts a heart-pounding experience in short doses. It's a hot pick for those who love a good scare, as you and your team identify different types of ghosts. It’s perfect for groups looking for a quick, exciting adventure that stimulates collaboration and critical thinking.

7 V Rising

V Rising

MMORPG Survival Released May 17, 2022 Platform(s) PC Powered by Expand Collapse

Theme/Genre: Vampire survival and castle-building game.

Multiplayer Aspects: Engage in co-op raids or building sessions. The game accommodates solo or multiplayer gameplay, allowing friends to join or leave as they wish.

Step into a rich vampire survival experience that doesn't demand a constant commitment but offers a world of opportunities for brief gameplay sessions. Whether you decide to hunt for blood, build your castle, or rise in power, V Rising accommodates both solo players and co-op play.

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Busy gamers can delight in quick raids on villages or bandit camps, enjoying the thrill of growing in power through short, satisfying play sessions. Even with a limited timeframe, you can still build a legacy, potentially becoming the next Dracula, all at your own pace. It offers a dramatic canvas for both lone wolves and clan enthusiasts to play out their vampire fantasies, all within the time they can spare.

6 Civilization 6

Sid Meier's Civilization 6

Strategy Released October 21, 2016 Platform(s) PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC, Android, iOS Powered by Expand Collapse

Theme/Genre: Turn-based strategy game focused on empire-building.

Multiplayer Aspects: Supports various multiplayer modes, including cooperative. It allows for long-term save and resume, making it convenient for those with limited gaming time.

Strategy lovers, this one is for you. Civilization 6 offers a deep strategy experience that can be enjoyed in both short and long sessions. Its turn-based mechanics allow busy gamers to build a world-spanning empire a few turns at a time, making it a perfect match for thinkers and history buffs who enjoy seeing their grand plans come to fruition over time.

5 Overcooked! 2

Overcooked 2

Simulation Released August 7, 2018 Multiplayer Online Multiplayer, Local Multiplayer Platform(s) Switch, PS4, PC, Xbox One, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Stadia, Amazon Luna Powered by Expand Collapse

Theme/Genre: Chaotic cooking simulation game.

Multiplayer Aspects: Best played with 2–4 players. Matches are short, usually lasting around 5–10 minutes, and if a player drops out, the game scales the difficulty.

Invite your friends for a culinary roller-coaster and pepare for a chaotic yet hilarious kitchen experience in Overcooked! 2.

Best suited for gamers who enjoy chaotic, yet cooperative gameplay, it provides hilarious, frantic, and quick cooking challenges. If you love teamwork and a good laugh, this game promises delightful sessions of culinary mishaps and triumphs, all in a short span of time.

4 Rocket League

Rocket League

Sports Released July 7, 2015 Platform(s) PC, PS4, Xbox One, macOS, Linux, Switch Powered by Expand Collapse

Theme/Genre: High-octane vehicle soccer game.

Multiplayer Aspects: Offers several multiplayer modes, including 2v2 and 3v3. Matches are short, usually around 5 minutes, and allow players to join or exit without causing issues.

​​Enjoy the fast-paced and exhilarating games of Rocket League, where soccer meets cars. Its quick match durations make it a perfect choice for those short on time, offering an exciting way to spend a few spare moments without needing a large time investment.

The game offers quick matches full of adrenaline-pumping car soccer action, making it a great choice for busy gamers looking to squeeze in some fast-paced gameplay in a tight schedule. It combines the thrill of sports with exhilarating car dynamics for a unique, quick fun.

3 Minecraft

WolfAtari

Minecraft

Created by Markus Persson Created by Markus Persson Video Game(s) Minecraft, Minecraft Dungeons, Minecraft Legends, Minecraft Caves and Cliffs Expand Collapse

Theme/Genre: Sandbox game focused on building and exploration.

Multiplayer Aspects: Players can join a shared world and cooperate or compete. The open-world nature makes it easy for players to join or leave at any time.

Delve into the open world of Minecraft where the limit is your creativity. Busy gamers can enjoy this sandbox game in small doses, building and crafting at their own pace, making it a serene getaway that fits into any schedule.

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It’s the go-to game for busy gamers, offering the freedom to build, craft, and explore in short, manageable sessions. Whether you're an architect at heart or a casual builder, this sandbox game offers a peaceful retreat into realms of creativity, where you can shape worlds in the time you find.

2 Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Simulation Released March 20, 2020 Multiplayer Online Multiplayer, Local Multiplayer Platform(s) Switch Powered by Expand Collapse

Theme/Genre: Life simulation game with elements of crafting and collecting.

Multiplayer Aspects: Offers an island-sharing feature where up to 4 players can cohabitate and contribute to island development. Visits can be short and sweet.

Step into a world that encourages daily short visits with Animal Crossing: New Horizons. The game is designed for busy players to check in for a few minutes each day, attending to their island’s needs and then stepping away until their next brief play session.

Step into a soothing routine designed for those who enjoy a daily check-in, it’s the perfect relaxing getaway for individuals who enjoy life simulation games with a generous sprinkle of charm, offering a wonderful, slow-paced gaming experience that welcomes you for short visits.

1 Among Us

Among Us

Party Game Released June 5, 2018 Platform(s) PC, Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S Powered by Expand Collapse

Theme/Genre: Multiplayer party game with murder mystery elements.

Multiplayer Aspects: Best for groups of 4–10 players. Each round lasts about 10 minutes, making it great for quick play sessions. The game continues even if a player drops out.

​​​​Engage in the deceit and strategy of Among Us, perfect for busy gamers who are looking for a quick gaming session filled with fun and intrigue. Each round is short, and the easy-to-understand mechanics mean you can jump right in, making it ideal for a fast, enjoyable gaming break.

Perfect for the detective minds and fans of mystery, Among Us offers intrigue and deception in quick, bite-sized sessions. Busy gamers who enjoy a mental challenge will find this game a fantastic choice, filled with strategic gameplay and fun dynamics that make every round unique.

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