25 best party games on PC & Steam to play with friends in 2024

There's just something special about game nights, you know? Even the strangest titles get a pass if they bring a few laughs. With that in mind, we compiled this list. If you want to spice up your get-together, these party video games will do the trick. They're sure to either make your buddies crack up or drive them crazy if they can't handle losing.

We've broken them down into five categories to help you find what you're looking for. Remember, these aren't all the best PC party games out there; some may not have made our cut. Drop your favorites in the comments below!

Best co-op party games

Join forces with your buddies in these insanely fun co-ops! Many of them are among the best local party games on PC, so they are definitely worth a try.

Overcooked 2 (Included with PC Game Pass)

Any list of the best party video games of 2024 wouldn't be complete without Overcooked 2, a positively chaotic co-op that puts many relationships to the test. The second entry to the series builds on the mechanics of its predecessor, making it even more enjoyable. Moreover, in addition to couch co-op, it supports online multiplayer, unlike the first installment.

Similar to the first game, it casts players as cooks who have to prepare dishes and serve them to awaiting customers. It only sounds easy, as there are often many challenges you must face, for example, collapsing floors, ever-changing kitchens, and the clumsiness of player 2. Overall, it's an amusing title, but you have to arm yourself with patience, as some levels can get on your nerves.

Overcooked 2 and numerous other party video games are included in Game Pass. This is a subscription service offered by Microsoft, granting you access to their ever-growing game library. Check out the top deals below.

Still not sure? Check out the roster of Game Pass additions in 2024 and beyond to get a glimpse of what lies ahead. It gets updated regularly, providing you with a comprehensive view of the offerings.

Moving Out 2

Moving Out 2 follows on from the concept introduced by its 2020 predecessor. Once again, you take on the role of a removal specialist at the company named F.A.R.T. It features an excellent co-op mode for up to four players. Throughout the campaign, you'll complete tasks in various locations that are even more bizarre than the original.

But what sets this title apart is its physics system, which allows you to throw furniture out of windows or into swimming pools, and it's all part of the fun. You also have the option to adjust the difficulty to your liking, making it possible to enjoy the game with less experienced friends. 

Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes

Next on our list of party games on Steam is Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes. Its title neatly encapsulates its premise: one player must defuse a bomb with instructions others provide. However, it's not as simple as it sounds. Only one person can actually see and interact with the bomb, making effective communication crucial for success.

Furthermore, the puzzles are generated procedurally, ensuring you get a totally new setup each time. The difficulty ramps up as you progress, so there's no risk of the missions becoming too easy to crack. Everything is done with great replayability in mind. Before you start defusing explosive devices with your pals, you'll need a single copy of the game to play, and the expert manual is readily available for free.

Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime

Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime is an essential addition to the list of best party games, with vibrant graphics and a strong focus on cooperative play. While it doesn't support online play, it's incredibly fun to play with friends on the couch, like in the good old days.

The game lets you become a pilot of a neon battleship as you fight off against a variety of aggressive enemies and bosses. Your responsibilities include operating turrets, lasers, shields, and thrusters. With randomized level layouts, every playthrough is a fresh and exciting experience. 

Trine series

When writing about the best party games on PC, we can't overlook the beloved Trine series, which currently consists of five installments. Looking at them, it's impossible not to be struck by their stunning graphics, which allows an impressive, well-executed gameplay to shine even brighter.

Throughout the game, you'll encounter physics-based puzzles that can be solved by using the unique abilities of the three heroes: Zoya the Thief, Pontius the Knight, and Amadeus the Wizard. In the fourth installment, Prince Selius joins the crew, expanding the potential number of participants from three to four. And in the latest game, A Clockwork Conspiracy, you can also team up with up to as many as 4 players.

That wraps up this category, but if you're hungry for more recommendations, be sure to explore our article on the finest couch co-op games.

Best multiplayer party games

If you believe that more is merrier, we've got you covered. Our roundup of the top multiplayer party games on PC ensures you'll never be short of options.

Ultimate Chicken Horse

Our next pick offers an interesting spin on platformer games. In Ultimate Chicken Horse, the goal is simple: reach the finish line. But the twist is that players design the level themselves, strategically placing traps, barriers, and platforms to make the challenge easier for themselves and harder for their opponents.

This allows you to let your imagination run wild and build stages that are nearly unbeatable. With its chaotic gameplay, we think it's one of the best party games on Steam.

Speedrunners

Speedrunners is a great alternative to traditional racing games, in case your guests stress at a mere thought of driving a car. Instead of getting behind the wheel, you play as a speedy superhero. To win, you must outwit your friends, using missiles, mines, and grappling hooks. But be aware of your surroundings, as each map is filled with traps and obstacles that can slow you down.

Designed primarily for multiplayer action, the game supports both local and online play. If you prefer some solo practice before taking on your buddies, you can also face off against AI-controlled enemies.

The Jackbox Party Pack

This franchise had to make our list of standout party games on Steam. As of 2024, the series has ten entries, each with its own mini-game collection.

The latest addition, Jackbox Party Pack 10, brings five titles. For example, there's Timejinx, a high-stakes trivia night, or Dodo Re Mi, where you and your friends create music together to escape the clutches of a hungry jungle plant. The best part? Everyone can use their smartphone or tablet to join in, so you don't need to worry about too few controllers. Pretty convenient, huh? It's definitely a must for anyone who loves hosting game nights.

Among Us (Included with PC Game Pass)

Among Us didn't exactly become an instant hit upon its release. However, once it achieved global fame, it spread all over the Internet. But what is this simple yet highly addictive game all about?

Players slip into the roles of crew members aboard a spaceship, diligently performing tasks. However, there is always at least one impostor lurking in their ranks whose mission is to create chaos. This game will certainly put your bluffing skills to the test. And ruin a friendship or two along the way. 

It's worth noting that Among Us doesn't demand much in terms of system requirements. If this aspect is important to you, check out our list of the best games that run on budget laptops.

Tricky Towers

If Tetris is your jam, why not dive into Tricky Towers? While both games involve falling blocks, you stack them rather than clear lines in this one. Your objective? To construct the tallest tower while contending with the forces of gravity and other obstacles.

The true excitement kicks in when you go head-to-head against your pals, casting magical spells to hinder their progress or fortify your own tower. Brace yourself for an intense challenge that will test your wits and strategic thinking!

Best free party games on PC

Whoever said you had to spend a fortune to have a good time was wrong. Here are free party games on PC that are ideal for those on a budget.

Rocket League

Although it used to be a paid title, you can now play Rocket League for free on the Epic Games Store. In terms of genre, it's essentially an arcade-style soccer game, but with vehicles taking the field instead of regular players.

In addition to standard 1v1, 2v2, and 3v3 online matches, there are also special modes, such as the basketball-inspired Hoops. With a plethora of customization options, cross-platform progression, and high-speed gameplay, it's a gem among multiplayer games.

We should also point out that it supports local play, allowing two players to enjoy it on a single monitor. If that's the feature you're looking for, read our article on the top split-screen PC games.

Fall Guys

Similarly to the previous title, Fall Guys went free-to-play on the Epic Games Store after some time. It's a battle royale free party game that lets you compete against 59 other players in different trials.

There are obstacle courses, soccer matches, survival rounds, and more! However, only the last man standing can win and get the crown. The game offers diverse customization options, from nameplates to costumes for your little, wobbly character. Moreover, it supports cross-play, so don't worry if your friends would rather play on other platforms.

Brawlhalla

Brawlhalla is an obvious choice for enthusiasts of platform fighting games. It features both online and local multiplayer, accommodating up to eight players. It also supports full crossplay with other platforms. Of course, there are plenty of modes to choose from.

If you're up for it, you can test your skills in ranked matches and strive for the top spot. And when you'd rather have a blast, you can always invite your friends for a brawl where the rules are entirely in your hands. Additionally, the game receives frequent updates, ensuring a continuous influx of fresh content to enrich the experience. It's undoubtedly one of those free party games that can liven up your gatherings.

Bucket Brawl: Ahlman Edition

Continuing our lineup of Steam party games, we've got Bucket Brawl: Ahlman Edition. Prepare for a wild showdown in arenas where you and your buddies will engage in thrilling battles until only one remains standing.

With the fast-paced and intense gameplay, you must use the environment to get an edge on your friends. Moreover, you should watch out for the elusive golden bucket, as scoring a hit with it ensures an instant victory over your opponent.

DEAD OR ALIVE 6 - Core Fighters

If you'd like to check out DEAD OR ALIVE 6 without committing to the full-priced game, you can explore the free-to-play version called Core Fighters. While it doesn't contain all the content, it does give you access to a selection of warriors and stages, giving you a taste of the action-packed combat and stunning visuals.

It includes four characters: Kasumi, Hitomi, Diego, and Bass. You can participate in online battles with players worldwide, play solo or with friends locally, or practice your moves before jumping into the fray. It's undoubtedly one of the best party games, especially since it comes at no cost.

Best fighting party games

Punch, kick and knock out your guests! It's time for epic (and friendly) rivalry with these fantastic fighting party games.

Towerfall: Ascension

Towerfall: Ascension takes a unique approach to fighting games by focusing on battles that involve archers. Naturally, your aim is to eliminate other players during the match. Besides your impeccable combat skills, you can also use treasure chests with power-ups to your advantage.

As old-school classics inspire the game, there's only local multiplayer available, which might be disappointing for some. However, if you're not the biggest fan of competitive gameplay, you can try Quest Mode. You can play it alone or with a friend to battle numerous foes across Towerfall's land. Without a doubt, it's one of the best party games on PC.

Party Animals (Included with PC Game Pass)

Party Animals has finally blessed us with its release, and it's a must-have for your upcoming party. The developers from Recreate Games were heavily inspired by best-selling representatives of the genre, where wonky physics are utilized as a comic relief and and the key gameplay feature. With that being said, this charming fighting title excels in terms of presentation and execution.

After picking your adorably fluffy avatar and selecting one of three game modes, you get to beat up, knock out, and push your equally cute opponents off the edges. The location may appear small, but all of them are diverse, bring new challenges, and work perfectly for a lobby of up to 8 players. Even after being prematurely and "absolutely unfairly" eliminated, you may take revenge by throwing trash at your opponents... In-game, obviously.

Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl series

Are there any Nickelodeon fans around? These titles are surely a treat for those who grew up with Spongebob and other iconic TV shows. There are currently two installments in the Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl series, but let's focus on the second, more recent release.

The gameplay is modeled after Nintendo's Super Smash Bros., with battles taking place in arenas with platforms. Of course, the roster of brawlers includes characters from the beloved cartoons, including Squidward, Jimmy Neutron, Danny Phantom,
Garfield, and so many more. If you prefer to hone your skills alone, there's also a new single-player campaign to explore. Undeniably, this is one of the best party games on Steam.

Gang Beasts (Included with PC Game Pass)

If you're looking for more fun games to play with your friends on PC, you should certainly consider this one! In Gang Beasts, you engage in melee battles with your pals as funky, gelatinous characters. You can kick and hit your opponents or use more sophisticated methods, such as throwing them from platforms or pushing them straight onto traps.

On top of that, there are various environments you can fight in, such as speeding trucks or scaffolding. It's unquestionably one of the titles that will make you laugh while playing.

Starwhal

Have you ever seen any party video games where neon narwhals fight in space? If not, now is your chance! In Starwhal, you maneuver your character through the cosmic arena and impale your opponents with your horn to win.

Although the concept may sound intense, rest assured that there is no blood or excessive violence. Whether playing solo or with friends in local multiplayer, the simple yet addictive gameplay guarantees an exciting experience that will leave you wanting more.