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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesGears of War: E-Day launched on October 6, 2026, so there is no longer a wait. If you want another co-op shooter to play alongside it—or after finishing it—start with Gears 5 for the closest franchise match. For a different kind of squad action, Space Marine 2, Helldivers 2, Deep Rock Galactic and Aliens: Fireteam Elite each offer a distinct take on teamwork and enemy-heavy combat.
What to look for in a Gears-like co-op shooter
Not every game here is a campaign built around cover shooting. The useful distinction is what kind of co-op you want: a familiar Gears setting and combat, a shared campaign, or repeatable missions where a group coordinates against waves of enemies. Party size and play format matter, too—especially if you want local split-screen rather than online play.
For context, Xbox lists Gears of War: E-Day for Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC, and says its campaign supports solo play, two-player split-screen on console, or up to four players online. Xbox also says online campaign co-op and other online multiplayer features require a Game Pass plan that includes online multiplayer. Xbox’s E-Day listing has the current availability details. Xbox Wire described the game’s controls and movement as modernized while retaining Gears’ signature cover-based feel in its August 25, 2026 preview; that is Xbox’s characterization, not an independent review verdict.
Best co-op shooters to play alongside E-Day
| Game | Best fit | Co-op setup established by the cited source |
|---|---|---|
| Gears 5 | Closest franchise match | Microsoft lists it in its PC online co-op shooter category; the category page does not specify campaign configuration or edition. |
| Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 | Co-op campaign and large-scale enemy action | Focus Entertainment describes a solo or three-player co-op campaign, plus PvE and PvP modes. |
| Helldivers 2 | Coordinated missions for a four-player group | PlayStation lists online play for up to four players and says online play is required. |
| Deep Rock Galactic | Class-based teamwork and repeatable alien encounters | PlayStation describes four distinct classes working together; Microsoft lists the game in its PC online co-op shooter category. |
| Aliens: Fireteam Elite | Three-player horde shooting | PlayStation describes a player and two friends taking on Xenomorph hordes. |
Gears 5: the closest franchise match
If what you want is more of the Gears universe and its style of combat, Gears 5 is the most direct choice on this list. Microsoft includes it in its PC online co-op shooter category, which supports its place as a co-op option but does not confirm a particular edition, campaign configuration, or physical format. Check the store listing for your platform and edition before buying.
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- Battle swarms of hundreds of zombies - the Swarm Engine seamlessly renders hordes of zombies in incredible firefights. Advanced gore systems offer gruesomely satisfying action.
- Coop story-driven campaigns - survive around the world, as unique groups tell their stories of perseverance.
- Fight other players for survival - several intense Player vs Player vs Zombies game modes complement the coop campaigns.
- Grow stronger - unlock powerful weapon upgrades and level 6 character classes to take on greater challenges.
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2: a shared campaign against swarms
Space Marine 2 suits groups who want a co-op campaign and dramatic battles against large numbers of enemies, rather than a Gears-style cover shooter. Focus Entertainment describes a campaign playable solo or with three players in co-op, alongside PvE and PvP modes. The publisher advertises “hundreds of enemies on screen”; treat that as its description, not an independently measured performance claim. See the official Focus Entertainment game page for its mode information.
Helldivers 2: coordinated four-player missions
Choose Helldivers 2 if your group prefers missions and squad coordination to a linear campaign. PlayStation calls it a “frenetic third-person co-operative team shooter” and says up to three friends can join you. Its listing names PS5, PC and Xbox, requires online play, and supports up to four online players. Friendly fire is always on, so aiming and communicating matter as much as dealing damage. PlayStation’s official game page has the platform and online-play details.
Rank #2
- VERSATILE FOR ALL SHOOTING GAMES - Compatible with a wide range of titles including Splatoon 2, Splatoon 3, Crysis Remastered Nintendo Switch, Big Buck Hunter Arcade, Hunting Simulator 2, and The House of the Dead
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION - Crafted from high-quality materials, this gun accessory is built to last, ensuring a robust and reliable performance during hunting gaming sessions
- REALISTIC GAMING EXPERIENCE - Elevate your gameplay with a true-to-life experience. This Switch gun accessory provides a more immersive and realistic feel compared to using Joy-Cons directly
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN - Designed with a comfortable grip that follows the natural contours of your hand, this accessory offers an intuitive layout for Joy-Con placement, enhancing your control and comfort
- PERFECT FOR KIDS & FAMILY TIME - Designed with fun, this accessory gun is perfect for children and adds a layer of excitement to family game nights, making gaming sessions more interactive and enjoyable for everyone
Deep Rock Galactic: distinct classes, shared objectives
Deep Rock Galactic is a good fit when the appeal is dividing responsibilities across a team. PlayStation describes four distinct space-Dwarf classes working together in destructible environments against hostile aliens. Its mining and exploration premise makes it a different experience from Gears, even though both give a group dangerous enemies to tackle together. Microsoft also includes it in its PC online co-op shooter category. PlayStation’s team-shooters guide describes its class-based setup.
Aliens: Fireteam Elite: a focused three-player horde pick
For a smaller squad looking for survival-style shooting, PlayStation describes Aliens: Fireteam Elite as a game for one player and two friends facing Xenomorph hordes, with marine weapons to upgrade between missions. It is the most specifically horde-focused alternative here. The cited PlayStation team-shooters guide does not establish current platform availability or retail formats.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- EXPANSIVE CAMPAIGN: Many real-world locations have been captured using photogrammetry to recreate a living, immersive environment, and multiple infiltration and extraction points and kill list targets provide a whole new perspective on each mission. Take on the Nazi plot solo or work with a partner, with improved co-op mechanics allowing you to share ammo and items, give orders and heal each other.
- ADVANCED GUNPLAY PHYSICS AND TRAVERSAL: Use ziplines, slide down slopes and shimmy along ledges to reach the perfect vantage point, or to sneak past a sharp-eyed lookout. Factor in rifle stock and barrel options along with gravity, wind and heart rate while you line up your sights on the target.
- HIGH CALIBRE CUSTOMISATION: Use workbenches to customise and upgrade virtually every aspect of your weapon – change scopes, stocks, barrels, magazines and more. Rifles, secondaries and pistols all have a huge variety of options. On top of that you can select the ammo to suit your target, from armour-piercing right down to non-lethal.
- INVASION MODE – CAMPAIGN DROP IN PvP AND CO-OP: Invade another player’s Campaign as an Axis sniper and engage in a deadly game of cat and mouse, providing a new dimension to the challenge as you stalk your prey. Alternatively, as Karl you can call for assistance and have a second sniper drop in to help you out of a tricky situation.
- TENSE ADVERSIAL MULTIPLAYER: Customise your character and loadout and earn XP, medals and ribbons as you take on intensely competitive 16 player battles that will really test your sharpshooting skills. If co-op’s more your style, you can team up with up to 3 other players against waves of enemies in Survival mode.
Which game should your group choose?
- Choose Gears 5 if you want the strongest connection to the Gears franchise and combat style.
- Choose Space Marine 2 if a shared campaign and battles against large enemy groups sound more appealing than a close Gears match.
- Choose Helldivers 2 if your group wants online missions for up to four and is happy to coordinate around friendly fire.
- Choose Deep Rock Galactic if class roles, destructible environments and exploration are the draw.
- Choose Aliens: Fireteam Elite if you want a three-player squad taking on alien hordes.
Before purchasing, confirm the current platform, edition and online requirements in the store listing for your region. The co-op details above come from the cited official listings and guides; they are not a comprehensive compatibility check for every platform or edition.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Fight your way through a perilous world In a 4-player co-op story campaign where you must work together to survive increasingly challenging missions
- Choose from 8 customizable cleaners and a range of lethal weapons and items
- Play with or against friends in PvP
- A new Roguelike card system creates different experiences each and every time
- A PlayStation Plus subscription is required to play Back 4 Blood on PlayStation or Xbox consoles.
Rank #4
- 4K Upscaling & Crystal-Clear 1080P Output: Experience retro gaming on a TV, monitor, or projector with stunning 4K upscaling and smooth 1080P HD output. The video game stick includes an extended HDMI cable for easy connection to modern displays. Enjoy sharper visuals and vibrant colors while keeping an authentic retro feel.
- Retro Game Stick with 40,000+ Preloaded Games & 23 Emulators: Explore a massive collection of 40,000+ classic titles across 23 built-in emulator systems—no downloads, internet, or accounts needed. Everything comes ready to play on a generous 64GB TF card, packed with hits, platformers, shooters, and co-op favorites. Just plug in and start playing. Press the SELECT and START buttons at the same time to return to the main menu.
- Dual 2.4G Wireless Controllers – Low-Latency Performance, 40ft Range: Team up or compete with two upgraded 2.4GHz wireless controllers featuring near-zero latency and a strong 40-foot range. Perfect for 2-player matchups in fighting games, sports titles, and co-op adventures—with no tangled cords getting in the way.
- True Plug and Play Video Games for TV – Ready in Seconds: No complicated setup required. Connect the stick to your TV’s HDMI port, plug it into power, and start gaming in under 30 seconds. Save your progress anytime and pick up right where you left off. Designed for teens and adults who prefer simple, convenient entertainment. Note: The 2 wireless controllers require 4 AA batteries, not included.
- The Ultimate Gift for Gamers & Households: A crowd-pleasing entertainment option for birthdays, holidays, or group game nights, this console brings friends and households together. Reliable customer support is included for added peace of mind.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
