Best sports games to play with friends on console

From football to basketball to racing, these sports games make couch multiplayer fun again.

Sports games are some of the best multiplayer experiences on console: easy to learn, easy to trash-talk and perfect for short matches.

Football (soccer)

The annual football games remain the benchmark for couch co-op. Quick matches, simple controls and plenty of drama.

Basketball

Basketball sims reward timing and teamwork. Great for one-on-one and local tournaments.

American football

Best enjoyed with friends who know the rules — or who are willing to learn them.

Racing and extreme sports

Split-screen racing and trick-based skate or snow games still work wonderfully for groups.

Set up your couch

• Get a second controller (colour-coded makes it easy to tell them apart).
• Use a charging kit so nobody's pad dies mid-match.
• Pick a game with short rounds so everyone gets a turn.

Sports games teach a lot about game feel, too: input responsiveness, animation timing and clear feedback are everything.