Valentine’s Day is here, and that means more time with those we love. I am a big fan of celebrating this day whether you’re single or in a relationship, because it can be a holiday that’s about all kinds of love, including family and friendship.

Whatever the case, it’s a great time to play video games with a partner. I play games with my boyfriend all the time, and we’re always looking for new picks. Here are a few I recommend for their beautiful worlds and the cooperation they encourage between two players! My hope is that there’s something for everyone here. =)

If You’re Into Fantasy: Trine 2

While I haven’t actually played this game co-op yet, it’s built for exactly that. I had a blast playing it solo. Lush graphics showcase a beautiful fantasy world that makes the experience feel magical. You can play as a thief, a knight, or a wizard — each a unique character with special abilities. Working together with another player to master the platforming and puzzles in this game is sure to be a fun challenge!

If You Want to Shoot Something: Gears of War

This whole series offers some of the best co-op shooting gameplay ever. If you have to choose just one game, I recommend the original — it’s even been remastered for Xbox One — or the latest, Gears of War 4, which features a playable female character alongside the main dude. Either way, you’ll be using your lancer to shoot down monstrous enemies and chainsawing jumping aliens who try to melee you. I’m not usually a fan of post-apocalyptic settings, but this world is one I just sink into. The characters make the scary environments and crumbling buildings feel more like home, too. Better yet, the co-op will have you strategizing with your partner, whether you’re shooting side by side or taking separate paths to cover each other.

If You Love Puzzles: Portal 2

Portal features a whole new way to use a gun. Instead of shooting enemies, you’re in a test lab shooting holes in walls, floors, and ceilings to create paths that let you progress from one side of a room to another. These puzzles can be really challenging, which is why I’ve found that having a partner to talk things over with is super helpful. In Portal 2‘s co-op, many of the rooms are set up for two people working together, and you’ll have to decide who does what to make it safely to the exit! The dry humor of GLaDoS, the AI who is ushering you through the tests, will have you laughing, too.

If You Like Exploring Other Planets: Destiny

If you’re into epic science fiction adventures, Destiny is an exciting experience to play with a partner. I played the entire campaign, including all DLCs, with my boyfriend. This whisked us through over 40 hours of exploration and fighting on places like Mars, Venus, and our own moon. While you can certainly play this game solo, having a partner with you makes the sci-fi sightseeing more fun and can be a huge boon during the tougher missions.

If You’re Competitive: Mortal Kombat X

If you and your partner are competitive, I recommend Mortal Kombat X to get you sparring. The older games are fun too, but I personally got into this one first because of the modern graphics, smooth gameplay, and some pretty awesome redesigned outfits for the women. It takes several rounds to figure out which character you like best, and several more to start mastering moves, but this is a fun fighting game to pick up and play. Challenge your partner to a quick match, or spend the night betting on who’s better with a controller…

What are some of your favorite co-op games? And happy Valentine’s Day to everyone!

— Ashley