- Online co-op lets two players hunt together across the main story
- Host a lobby via the Multiplayer menu and invite a friend by code or name
- Playing together unlocks a special co-op achievement and shared kills
- Progress carries over for the host, so the guest should play on the host's world
- Choose complementary weapons to cover different ranges and prey types
What Is Online Co-op?
Online co-op is a multiplayer mode in Way of the Hunter 2 that allows two players to explore the world and hunt animals together. Unlike the original game, which only supported two-player online sessions, the sequel expands multiplayer with full story progression support for the host player.
The mode works through a lobby system where one player acts as the host and the other joins as a guest. The host's world, including their owned equipment and weapons, becomes available to the guest, making it an excellent way to introduce new players to the game.
- Progression is saved for the host only
- Guests keep achievements and unlocks earned during the session
- Both players earn money and XP together during the session
How to Set Up a Co-op Session
Setting up a co-op session in Way of the Hunter 2 is straightforward once you know where to look. Follow these steps to get started:
Access the Multiplayer Menu
- Open the pause menu in-game
- Select the Multiplayer option from the list
- Choose whether to host or join a session
Host a New Lobby
- Click Host Game to create a new session
- Set your lobby to Private or Friends Only for a controlled experience
- Share the join code or your Steam name with your friend
Invite a Friend
- Send an invite through your platform friend list or share the join code
- Wait for your friend to accept and load into your world
- Once they spawn in, you can begin hunting together immediately
- Both players need a stable internet connection for smooth co-op play
- A moderate NAT type or open NAT is recommended for reliable connections
- If you experience lag, try having the player with the better connection host the session
Best Co-op Hunting Strategies
Hunting with a partner changes how you should approach the world compared to playing solo. Here are some of the best strategies for a two-person team:
Flanking
- Best for: Open areas with multiple prey
- One player approaches from downwind while the other waits
- The spooked animals run toward the waiting player for an easy shot
Double Shots
- Best for: Large game like bears or moose
- Both players fire simultaneously to take down tough animals quickly
- Excellent for earning the Co-op Delegation special achievement
Spotter and Shooter
- Best for: Long-range hunting scenarios
- One player uses binoculars to call out animal locations and trophy quality
- The other focuses on lining up the perfect shot
Equipment Loadouts for Two Players
| Role | Weapon Type | Recommended Gear | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Close-range hunter | Shotgun or bow | Medium caliber, camo | Handles charging animals and close encounters |
| Long-range hunter | Sniper rifle | Large caliber, scope | Takes precision shots at trophy animals from distance |
| Tracker | Any | Calls, scents, decoys | Draws animals into position for the partner |
| Support hunter | Rifle | Tent, storage, ATV | Manages logistics and gear for extended hunts |
Playing in co-op mode unlocks a special co-op achievement that cannot be earned in solo play. The achievement is earned by killing an animal while another player is nearby in the same session.
Co-op Etiquette and Tips
Playing with a partner is more enjoyable when both players follow some basic guidelines. Good communication and planning go a long way toward a successful hunt.
Co-op Best Practices:
- Communicate animal positions and movements clearly
- Agree on who takes the shot before approaching prey
- Share equipment and storage space when hunting together
- Avoid spooking animals by moving simultaneously and quietly
- Take turns tracking and shooting to keep the session fun for both players
- Use the tent to save and fast travel together as a team
The best co-op hunts happen when both players agree on roles before starting. One player should focus on tracking and calling while the other sets up for the shot. This prevents both players from spooking animals by moving at the same time.
What Changes in Multiplayer?
While the core gameplay remains the same, there are a few key differences when playing in co-op compared to solo:
| Feature | Solo Mode | Co-op Mode |
|---|---|---|
| World progression | Saved normally | Saved for host only |
| Equipment access | Own equipment | Guest uses host's equipment |
| Achievements | Standard unlocks | Includes special co-op achievement |
| Animal behavior | Standard AI | Animals react to both players |
| Fast travel | Standard | Both players travel together |
| Money and XP | Individual | Earned together during session |
The guest player uses the host's owned equipment and weapons during the session. This means a new player can join a friend who has advanced gear and still contribute effectively to hunts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Way of the Hunter 2 have online co-op?
Yes, Way of the Hunter 2 supports **online co-op** for two players. You can hunt together across the main story and open world, with the host's world serving as the session.
Q: Is there a special achievement for playing co-op?
Yes, playing in co-op mode unlocks a **special co-op achievement** that cannot be earned in solo play. The achievement is earned by killing an animal while another player is nearby in the same session.
Q: How many players can join a co-op session?
Way of the Hunter 2 co-op supports **two players** per session. One player acts as the host and the other joins as a guest through an invite or join code.
Q: Do both players keep progress earned during a co-op session?
The **host player** keeps world progression, while the **guest player** keeps achievements and unlocks earned during the session. Both players earn money and XP together while playing.
Q: Can the guest use their own equipment in co-op?
The guest player uses the **host's owned equipment and weapons** during the session. This means a new player can join a friend who has advanced gear and still contribute effectively to hunts.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Online co-op in Way of the Hunter 2 adds a new layer of enjoyment to an already immersive hunting experience. Whether you are tracking a trophy buck together or setting up a perfect ambush, hunting with a friend makes every moment more memorable.
To get started, follow the steps in this guide to host your first lobby and invite a friend. Remember to plan your roles, communicate clearly, and work together to earn that special co-op achievement. Good luck, and happy hunting!
- Follow this guide to set up your first co-op session
- Try the Spotter and Shooter strategy for your first hunt
- Work together to unlock the special co-op achievement
- Share your best co-op moments with the community