Whether you’re both gamers or just looking for a fun digital adventure together, survival and building games offer the perfect mix of challenge, creativity, and cozy collaboration. And yes—there are games out there that don’t involve endless grinding or complex menus. These games are fun, immersive, and perfect for playing with your girlfriend (or anyone who loves a good adventure with a personal touch).
Here’s our list of the top 5 survival crafting games to dive into as a duo.
1. Minecraft (Java or Bedrock Edition)
🎮 Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, Mobile
❤️ Best for: Endless creativity, casual survival fun
Let’s be real—Minecraft is the ultimate couples’ game. Whether you’re building a cozy cottage in the forest, surviving your first night, or exploring caves hand-in-hand, Minecraft is perfect for all skill levels.
Why it’s great:
- Peaceful or survival mode—your choice
- Easy to jump in and play, no pressure
- Tons of cute resource packs and mods
- Build your dream home… together!
🧠 Pro Tip: Try building themed bases like a treehouse village or seaside town for a long-term project.
2. Valheim
🎮 Platforms: PC
❤️ Best for: Viking vibes, exploring together
Valheim is a beautifully atmospheric Viking survival game. The world is procedurally generated and surprisingly relaxing—until trolls and bosses show up. Gather resources, craft gear, and build a homestead worthy of Norse legends.
Why it’s great:
- Emphasis on building strongholds and villages
- Atmospheric music and visuals = cozy immersion
- Boss battles that feel epic, not overwhelming
- Great co-op synergy without PvP stress
🛠️ Bonus: You can build longships and sail together to new biomes.
3. The Forest / Sons of the Forest
🎮 Platforms: PC
❤️ Best for: Spooky survival with a twist
Looking for something a bit darker (but still co-op-friendly)? The Forest and its sequel Sons of the Forest are intense, but the building mechanics are top-tier. Survive on a creepy island, build your base, and try not to get eaten.
Why it’s great:
- Surprisingly deep base-building tools
- AI companions (like Kelvin in SotF) help out
- You will scream, but you’ll also laugh
- Resource gathering and crafting are super satisfying
⚠️ Warning: Definitely not for the faint of heart—but great if you’re both into spooky thrills.
4. Don’t Starve Together
🎮 Platforms: PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One
❤️ Best for: Quirky art, team-based survival
With its Tim Burton-inspired visuals and challenging gameplay, Don’t Starve Together is perfect for couples who like problem-solving. Survive the changing seasons, fend off monsters, and craft everything from farms to magic amulets.
Why it’s great:
- Two-player synergy is key
- Learn to survive each season together
- Customizable difficulty options
- Tons of content, characters, and play styles
🌙 Pro Tip: Pick complementary characters like Wilson (science) and Wendy (ghost sidekick) for better teamwork.
5. Raft
🎮 Platforms: PC
❤️ Best for: Chill ocean survival and teamwork
Stranded on a tiny raft in the middle of an endless ocean? Sounds stressful—but Raft is one of the most chill (yet satisfying) survival experiences you can have. Expand your floating base, collect debris, avoid sharks, and explore mysterious islands together.
Why it’s great:
- Peaceful vibes with just enough challenge
- Cooperative gameplay is simple and fun
- Building your raft becomes a creative obsession
- Perfect for short or long sessions
🐠 Bonus: Name your pet shark. Trust us—it helps.
Final Thoughts: Building Together Builds Bonds
Survival crafting games aren’t just about resources and monsters—they’re about collaboration, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re surviving the night in Minecraft or sailing through storms in Raft, you’ll come out stronger—both in-game and in your relationship.
At BuildMondays.com, we believe in celebrating creativity in all forms. Whether you’re a hardcore builder or just dipping your toes into co-op gaming, there’s no better way to build something meaningful than with someone you care about.
💬 Got a Favorite Co-Op Build Game?
Let us know what you and your player two are playing—we might feature your story in an upcoming Build Spotlight!
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