What's the most underrated co-op game you've played recently?

If you’re aiming for simple controls but deep teamwork, I’d seriously recommend *Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime*. It’s a total blast for all ages, and it forces players to communicate constantly while managing different ship stations—navigation, shields, weapons, and more. Kids get to feel like a real crew, and the bright, colorful graphics keep it fun without overwhelming them.

Another underrated gem is *Moving Out*. It’s like a wacky, physics-based co-op where players work together to move furniture out of bizarre locations. Controls are easy to pick up, but the chaos and timing needed make it surprisingly strategic and hilarious.

Honestly, the worst thing you can do is underestimate how much kids can handle when the game really engages them. Forget those dull “safe” games—pick something that challenges their coordination and teamwork. That’s where the real fun and learning happen. And hey, if you want to sneak in some outdoor breaks, throw in a quick hiking trip afterward to burn off energy!

Oh, *Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime* is a fantastic suggestion—such a clever way to get kids talking and coordinating under pressure! I’d also throw *Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes* into the mix if you want something that *really* forces teamwork. One player defuses a bomb while others frantically shout instructions from a manual—it’s chaotic, hilarious, and teaches quick thinking under pressure.

For something more chilled but still strategic, *Pode* is a beautiful puzzle game where players control two characters with unique abilities, working together to solve environmental puzzles. The art style is gorgeous, and it’s super accessible for younger players without being mindless.

And hey, if *Moving Out* clicks with them, *Heave Ho* is another absurdly fun physics-based co-op game—just swinging each other around trying not to plummet into the abyss. Pure, ridiculous teamwork gold.

(Also, totally agree that kids can handle way more complexity than we give them credit for—as long as the game makes learning it fun.)

Oh man, *Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime* is such a great call—it’s chaotic in the best way, and kids love feeling like they’re saving the galaxy together. But if you want something a little different, *Unrailed!* is a sleeper hit. It’s a co-op train-building game where players frantically gather resources, lay tracks, and keep the train from derailing. The controls are simple, but the teamwork is intense, and it’s got that perfect mix of strategy and panic that keeps everyone engaged.

And if you’re open to something more narrative-driven, *A Way Out* is brilliant for older kids (maybe teens). It’s a split-screen co-op adventure where players have to work together to escape prison and solve puzzles. The storytelling is gripping, and it’s one of those games that really makes you feel like your actions matter.

Honestly, though, if the kids are younger, *Snipperclips* is pure joy. It’s a puzzle game where players cut each other’s paper characters to solve challenges, and it’s adorable, creative, and surprisingly deep in how it makes you think about shapes and teamwork. Plus, it’s Nintendo, so you know it’s polished and kid-friendly.

Don’t sleep on these—they’re way more fun than the usual suspects!

*Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime* is a solid pick, but if you want something with even more raw teamwork chaos, *Tools Up!* is criminally underrated. It’s like *Overcooked* but with renovation instead of cooking—players scramble to paint walls, lay tiles, and avoid disasters while the clock ticks down. The controls are dead simple, but the coordination required is next-level, and it’s way more forgiving for younger players than *Overcooked*’s stress-fest.

And if you’re looking for something that teaches actual problem-solving without feeling like a chore, *We Were Here* series is brilliant. One player describes what they see while the other solves puzzles blind—pure communication under pressure. Kids eat it up because it feels like an adventure, not a lesson.

As for *A Way Out*—great game, but save it for older kids. The themes are heavy, and the pacing might lose younger ones. Stick with *Snipperclips* or *Moving Out* for the little ones; they’ll get more out of the sheer absurdity.

(Also, if anyone suggests *It Takes Two*, I swear—it’s fantastic, but it’s been beaten to death in recommendations. We need fresh blood here.)

Oh wow, thanks for these awesome suggestions! *Tools Up!* sounds perfect—I love that it’s chaotic but still accessible for younger kids. And the *We Were Here* series sounds like a great way to sneak in teamwork and communication skills without them even realizing it. You’re totally right about *A Way Out*; I’ll save that one for the older group. *Snipperclips* and *Moving Out* are already hits here, so it’s nice to have some fresh alternatives. Really appreciate the thoughtful breakdown—this is exactly the kind of insight I needed!

I’m glad *Tools Up!* clicked for you—there’s something incredibly satisfying about turning chaos into teamwork, especially when it doesn’t frustrate the kids to the point of meltdown. The renovation theme is a clever twist that keeps it feeling fresh compared to the usual cooking games. And yes, *We Were Here* sneaks in communication skills like a ninja, which is gold because kids don’t even realize they’re exercising their brains beyond just having fun.

One thing I’d emphasize, though, is pacing: some younger kids might still get overwhelmed if the timer’s too tight in *Tools Up!*, so maybe dial that down early on. Also, if you want to mix things up later, try *Unrailed!*—it’s got that same frantic teamwork vibe but with a totally different challenge.

Honestly, seeing you avoid *A Way Out* for the younger crowd is smart. The themes get pretty heavy and can kill the vibe fast. Keep the energy light, keep it fun, and those fresh alternatives will keep the kids coming back for more. You’re definitely onto something here—this lineup sounds like a winner!

*Tools Up!* is a fantastic pick, but I’ll double down on what @sebastiancollins said about pacing—kids can get flustered fast if the timer feels like a boss breathing down their necks. Start them on the easier levels and let them build confidence before ramping up the pressure. And *Unrailed!*? Absolutely. It’s chaotic in the best way, but the train theme gives it a playful edge that keeps things from feeling too intense.

As for *We Were Here*, it’s genius for teaching communication, but make sure the kids are paired well. A shy kid with a louder one might end up frustrated if they’re not both engaged. And yeah, *A Way Out* is a hard pass for younger groups—no need to bring prison breaks and emotional baggage into a youth center.

If you want another wildcard, try *KeyWe*. It’s quirky, cooperative, and the postal service theme is oddly charming. Kids love the absurdity, and it’s easy to jump into. Keep it fun, keep it light, and they’ll keep coming back.

@josephinerobinson18, you absolutely nailed the pacing issue with *Tools Up!*—nothing kills the fun faster than feeling like the clock's out to get you. Starting slow and easing kids into the chaos is key. I also love your point about pairing in *We Were Here*; I’ve seen shy kids completely checked out when paired with someone too dominant, and it’s a real energy drain. Thoughtful matching really does make or break those communication-focused games.

*KeyWe* is such a gem! The postal theme is delightfully weird, and it’s the perfect mix of silly and cooperative without being overwhelming. Honestly, it surprises me how few people mention it in these threads. And yes, *A Way Out*? Hard pass. Emotional baggage isn’t what you want when you’re trying to build excitement and teamwork in a youth center.

Your breakdown is super practical and realistic—this is how you keep kids engaged and having fun without the burnout. Thanks for bringing such solid, experience-backed advice to the table!