Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsVampire Survivors has two separate co-op modes, each for up to four players: local couch co-op on one shared screen, and online co-op where players use separate devices and can roam independently. To play locally, connect an input device for each player; to play online, select Online from the main menu and host a room or join with a code. The modes cannot be combined in one session.
Choose local or online co-op
Both modes support up to four players, but they differ in setup, supported platforms, and how players move through a run. Poncle’s Local Co-Op FAQ says the local co-op update launched on 17 August 2023. Its live Online Co-Op FAQ covers the current online setup and platform rules.
| What to check | Local couch co-op | Online co-op |
|---|---|---|
| Players | Up to four on one shared screen | Up to four on separate devices |
| Platforms listed by poncle | Steam, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, Xbox Game Pass, Android, and iOS | PC and supported consoles; mobile is not supported for online play at launch, according to poncle’s live FAQ |
| Setup | Connect one input device per player, then choose co-op before a run | Choose Online, then host a room or join one using its code; Xbox platform invites are also available |
| Movement | Players share the local screen | Players can roam independently |
| Internet and ownership | Not needed for local play | Each player needs a device and their own copy of the game |
| Cross-play | Not stated in poncle’s local co-op FAQ | Limited to specified ecosystems; it does not work across every platform combination |
| Save and unlocks | Local co-op unlocks carry over to the single-player save | Each player uses their own character and unlocks; players choose individually whether to save progress after the run |
How to start local couch co-op
Connect an input device for every player
Poncle’s local co-op guidance requires one input device per player. On mobile, connect Bluetooth controllers for additional players and turn the device to landscape orientation. Check that each controller is compatible with the phone or tablet before starting. The Steam store listing identifies controller support for the PC version.
Choose co-op before the run
- Connect each player’s controller or other supported input device.
- Start the game and select local co-op before beginning a run.
- Have each player choose an available character. Duplicate copies of the same character cannot be selected in one run.
- Start the run. You can switch between single-player and co-op before later runs without creating a new save.
Unlocks earned during a local co-op run carry over to the single-player save.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible with Windows and Android.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate (for 2.4G and wired connection)
- Hall Effect joysticks and Hall triggers. Wear-resistant metal joystick rings.
- Extra R4/L4 bumpers. Custom button mapping without using software. Turbo function.
- Refined bumpers and D-pad. Light but tactile.
How to start an online game
- From the main menu, select Online.
- Choose whether to host or join a game.
- If hosting, share the room code with the people you want to play with. On Xbox, platform invites are available; players on other platforms use room codes.
- Have each player join from their own device and copy of the game, then begin the run.
Online co-op is invitation-based: poncle says the game does not offer random matchmaking. Players are not tied to one shared screen and can explore independently.
Which platforms can play online together?
Poncle’s current online FAQ describes cross-play within certain platform ecosystems, not universal cross-play. It specifies Xbox Series X|S playing with PC players using Microsoft Store or Game Pass, and PS4 playing with PS5. It says cross-play is unavailable between different ecosystems, giving Xbox-to-PlayStation and consoles-to-Steam as examples. Check the live FAQ before arranging a session, since platform support and cross-play rules can change.
Rank #2
- Tri-mode Connectivity: Wired for Xbox, 2.4G & Wired for PC, and Bluetooth for Android. The G7 Pro supports seamless connectivity across Xbox, PC, and Android. Effortlessly switch between modes using the convenient physical mode switch.
- TMR Sticks: The G7 Pro features GameSir's Mag-Res TMR sticks, combining Hall Effect durability with traditional potentiometer performance. This advanced technology delivers stable polling rates for smooth, drift-free gaming with low power consumption.
- Hall Effect Analog Triggers: The GameSir precision-tuned Hall Effect analog triggers provide unmatched smoothness and linear input for precise control. Featuring clicky Micro Switch trigger stops, gamers can easily switch based on their preferences.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate on PC: Experience ultra-responsive gaming with a 1000Hz polling rate on PC, available through both wired and 2.4G wireless connections. This ensures instantaneous input registration, reducing lag and optimizing your performance for the most competitive gameplay.
- GameSir Nexus App: The G7 Pro is compatible with the upgraded GameSir Nexus app, which brings a significant upgrade over the original. It introduces powerful new features such as gyro settings, stick curve adjustments, and button-to-mouse mapping, giving you deeper customization and more control than ever before.
The same FAQ says online co-op is available on PC and supported consoles, but not on mobile at launch. That limitation is about online play: poncle lists Android and iOS for local co-op, with Bluetooth controllers and landscape orientation required for mobile multiplayer.
Do you need a subscription or DLC?
Poncle says online play is free on its side, but console players may still need the standard online subscription required by their platform. Check the console service’s current rules for your account and region.
Rank #3
- Versatile compatibility: supports Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X/S consoles and PC Win10 and above (including the game platform Steam).
- Precise control: features Hall joysticks and Hall triggers for a comfortable feeling, long service life and improved game accuracy.
- Plug and Play Convenience: Wired USB connection (removable) for easy setup and instant play without the need for additional drivers.
- Customizable experience: Includes 2 custom backbuttons that allow users to eliminate false triggers and improve their gaming experience.
- Impressive gameplay: Provides a pulsating vibration trigger and an asymmetric vibration grip motor for intense tactile feedback.
You do not need DLC merely to enter an online session. To play content from a particular DLC pack together, however, every player needs to own that pack. Poncle’s local co-op FAQ also says a player who owns DLC can play it in local co-op.
How saves and shared rewards work online
Each online player brings characters and unlocks from their own save. The host’s save determines which stages and items are available to the session. Pickups, gold, and achievements are collected as a group, but at the end of the run each player decides whether to save progress to their own file.
Rank #4
- XBOX WIRELESS CONTROLLER + USB-C CABLE — Includes the XBOX Wireless Controller in Carbon Black and a 9' USB-C cable. Play wirelessly or plug in for a wired gaming experience, right out of the box.*
- WIRED OR WIRELESS, YOUR CALL — Connect the included 9' USB-C cable for zero-setup wired play on console and PC. Go wireless when you want the freedom to play from the couch, the desk, or anywhere in between.
- PC READY. NO EXTRAS NEEDED — Plug the USB-C cable into your Windows PC and you're playing instantly. No adapters, no Bluetooth pairing, no additional purchases required. Works across the XBOX app, Steam, and more.*
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience sculpted surfaces and refined geometry designed around how you actually hold a controller. Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grip on the triggers, bumpers, and back case.
- UP TO 40 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 40 hours of wireless battery life on standard AA batteries. When the batteries run low, plug in the included cable and keep playing without missing a beat.*
What changes during a co-op run?
Local co-op mechanics
- The Friendship Amulet can grant a level-up to every player, assigning it to a random weapon or, if weapons are maxed, a passive.
- A downed player can revive after a countdown in a coffin, though enemies can interfere.
- Players have fewer weapon slots per person as the number of players increases.
- Poncle says local co-op balance was adjusted to keep runs challenging.
Online co-op and disconnections
Enemies do not scale with the number of online players, according to poncle. If the host disconnects, the session ends. If a client disconnects, their weapons are redistributed and the run continues; that player cannot rejoin mid-run, but can join again after it ends.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Can you play local co-op remotely?
Poncle does not officially support playing its local co-op mode over the internet, but recommends Steam Remote Play Together on PC as an unofficial workaround. Steam lists Remote Play Together as a feature for Vampire Survivors. This lets remote friends share a local co-op session; it is distinct from the game’s native online mode, which is available through the Online menu. Poncle notes that third-party remote-play tools may have issues outside its control.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Multi-Platform PC Gaming Controller: Working with Switch, PC, Android, and iOS devices via Bluetooth, wired, and wireless dongle connections.
- Hall Effect Joysticks: Delivering enhanced recentering performance for smoother control and superior anti-drift capability. Plus, with anti-friction rings.
- 2-Way Trigger Lock: With trigger stops, gamers can toggle between short and long pull positions. Additionally, gamers can activate hair trigger mode by pressing M+LT/RT (triggers must be in the long pull position).
- 1000Hz Polling Rate: This ensures that your inputs are registered almost instantaneously, minimizing lag and maximizing your performance during competitive play.
- Mechanical Circular D-pad: Designed for quick reactions and accuracy in every direction, this D-pad elevates your gaming experience with superior responsiveness.
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.
