The best 2 player platform games on an arcade machine
Let’s get into the retro vibes of arcade gaming and check out some of the best two player platform games. These classics not only shaped the gaming landscape but brought people together in arcades all over the world.
Arcade Platform Games
Arcade machines are a special part of gaming history. They were the meeting points where friends became rivals, and strangers teamed up for a common goal. Among the many genres, platform games stood out for their fun gameplay, tough levels and co-op fun. Here’s a look at some of the best two player platform arcade games that still get gamers.atio.ion.
Bubble Bobble (1986)
Bubble Bobble, by Taito, is a platform game that introduced Bub and Bob, two cute bubble blowing dragons. The objective is simple but addictive: navigate 100 levels, trap enemies in bubbles and then pop them to clear the screen. Its two player mode is where the game shines, as players must work together to defeat enemies and collect power ups. The co-op gameplay, music and graphics make it a timeless classic.
Snow Bros. (1990)
Another classic from the golden age of arcades is Snow Bros. by Toaplan. Players control Nick and Tom, two snowmen on a mission to rescue princesses from evil monsters. The gameplay involves throwing snow at enemies to create snowballs and then rolling them to crush other foes. The two player mode encourages players to strategize and assist each other, making for an entertaining and often frantic experience.
The Simpsons (1991)
Based on the popular animated TV show, The Simpsons arcade game by Konami is a fun and crazy beat ‘em up. While primarily a beat ‘em up, it has platform elements that require players to jump and navigate through various levels. Up to four players can join in, each controlling a member of the Simpson family. The game’s humor, colorful graphics and co-op gameplay make it a must play for fans of the series.
Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker (1990)
Developed by Sega, Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker is a platformer/beat ‘em up. Players control the King of Pop as he dances his way through levels, rescuing children and defeating enemies with his signature moves. The two player mode allows for synchronized gameplay, where players can combine their efforts to execute special moves and defeat tougher enemies. The game’s music, moves and style make it a classic.
Metal Slug Series (1996 onwards)
The Metal Slug series by SNK is famous for its fast action, tough levels and beautiful hand drawn graphics. As soldiers Marco and Tarma (or other characters in later versions) players must navigate through levels filled with enemies, vehicles and massive bosses. The co-op mode is intense, players must coordinate their attacks, share power-ups and cover each other. The series’ humor, explosions and non stop action make it a classic in the arcade genre.
Donkey Kong (1981)
Donkey Kong is a classic Nintendo game that introduced the world to Mario (then known as Jumpman). You climb structures, avoid obstacles and rescue Princess Pauline from the ape. Not a traditional 2 player co-op game but the alternating play mode allowed friends to compete for high scores. Challenging platforming and iconic makes it a part of arcade history.
Gauntlet (1985)
While primarily a dungeon crawler Gauntlet by Atari Games has some platforming and is notable for its co-op gameplay. Up to 4 players can choose from different character classes, each with their own abilities and work together to navigate mazes, fight enemies and collect treasure. Co-op and replayability makes it a classic arcade game.
Tumblepop (1991)
Tumblepop by Data East is a platformer where you play as ghostbusters-like characters with vacuum cleaners. You suck up enemies and debris and then spit them out to clear levels. 2 player mode is team work as you need to coordinate your actions to take care of the enemies. Colorful graphics and quirky gameplay makes it a fun game.
Contra (1987)
Contra by Konami is a run-and-gun platformer that is a classic. You play as commandos Bill and Lance and fight through enemy forces and alien threats. Co-op is intense and requires precise coordination especially in later levels where the difficulty spikes big time. Iconic music, challenging gameplay and co-op fun makes it a timeless arcade game.
Sunset Riders (1991)
Another Konami gem, Sunset Riders is a platformer and run-and-gun game set in the Wild West. Up to 4 players can play as bounty hunters, each with their own weapons and work together to take down outlaws. Colorful graphics, fun gameplay and co-op makes it a classic arcade game.
Final thoughts
Arcade platformers brought a special kind of challenge, fun and camaraderie to the world of gaming. These games defined an era and laid the foundation for future co-op and competitive games. Whether you like blowing bubbles, throwing snowballs, or shooting commandos there’s a 2 player platform arcade game for you. Grab a friend, insert some coins and relive the magic of these classics. 
