Everyone does something different on New Year’s Eve. If you’re in the UK, you’re likely tuning into Jools Holland’s Hootenanny and seeing out the clock with something fizzy in your hand. If you’re in Denmark, you’re probably finding out about the 2023 New Year Queen’s speech odds, working out exactly what she’s going to say and, more importantly, what outfit she’s going to wear while saying itIf you’re in Spain, you’re probably picking the best 12 grapes from the bunch and getting ready to eat them all in the time it takes the clock to strike.
Different traditions are in play everywhere in the world as everyone gets together to see out the old year and see in the new. There is one tradition, however, that remains pretty much the same no matter where you go. Games.
Co-Op Gaming Night this New Year’s Eve
Whether you’re in the US or the Philippines, game nights have become a common tradition on NYE, and we think it’s time the tradition is given a modern-day twist.
For all the gamers amongst you, why not spend this NYE getting your friends together and putting on a gaming extravaganza? Forget Snap or Battleships – you can see out the year playing Portal 2, It Takes Two, or a full-on Counter-Strike 2 tournament. All you need is food, drinks, balloons, a clock so you don’t lose track of the midnight countdown, and a gaming console.
What’s that, we hear you ask? What’s the best gaming console for co-op play with friends? We’re glad you asked that because we like to think we know a thing or two about gaming consoles. To make sure your NYE celebrations go off without a hitch, here are our three favorite gaming consoles for co-op play and a few words on what makes them so good.
3. Xbox Series S
If you like the idea of a New Year’s Eve gaming night, but you haven’t yet invested in a next-gen console, then this is as good a time as any to do it. We would suggest, however, not going for the Xbox Series X or the Playstation 5, especially if you’re on a tight budget. While those consoles are fantastic, you don’t need to push the boat out to enjoy a co-op gaming night.
The Series S is cheaper and aimed at casual gamers, making it a far more viable option for couch or online co-op plays – the controllers are also more affordable and ergonomic. This is also the best option if you’re considering playing new AAA titles, such as It Takes Two, A Way Out, or the latest Forza 5 or Destiny releases.
2. Nintendo Switch
Party games and local co-ops are the two most significant selling points of the Nintendo Switch. Ever since the first was released back in 2017, millions of people have been picking up a device and using it for those very reasons – relaxed, enjoyable gaming experiences with friends. This makes it a great option for your NYE party, especially if you love Just Dance, Ring Fit Adventure, and Monopoly!
1. Playstation 2
At number one, we will play a bit of a wild card. Although the Playstation 2 came out around 23 years ago, it is still considered a masterstroke in console gaming, and some of its flagship games are still just as enjoyable today. It could also be your dream come true for a couch co-op gaming party.
You can pick up a PS2 for hardly any money today, and yet you’re still treated to some brilliant PS2 co-op games like Mortal Kombat, Star Wars Battlefront II, and GoldenEye 007. We all remember how much fun we had playing those games all that time ago, so it’s a great idea to make this evening – about looking back on the past and preparing for the future – as nostalgia-driven as possible!
