Best PS5 Split-Screen Games in 2026: 11 Couch Multiplayer Picks

Split-screen gaming is still one of the simplest ways to turn a PS5 into a social machine. One console, one television and a second controller can be enough for a full campaign, while selected games let three or four people share the same display.

This ranking only includes games that genuinely divide the screen on PS5. A title is not included merely because it supports local multiplayer on a shared camera. Local player limits, mode restrictions and account requirements were checked on August 31, 2026.

Best PS5 Split-Screen Games at a Glance

1. Split Fiction — Best PS5 Split-Screen Game Overall

Split Fiction treats the divided display as part of its design. Two writers become trapped in connected science-fiction and fantasy worlds, and each receives different tools. One player may control machinery while the other manipulates the environment; neither is simply following the lead character.

The whole story is built for exactly two people. Local couch co-op works offline with two DualSense controllers, so no second console, subscription or Friend’s Pass is needed when both players share the same PS5. Its frequent mechanical changes make it the strongest recommendation for partners who want a polished campaign rather than repeatable matches.

2. It Takes Two — Best for Couples and New Players

It Takes Two remains unusually welcoming because every chapter introduces a new cooperative idea before it becomes stale. Cody and May receive complementary abilities, encouraging conversation without demanding that both people have identical action-game experience. Platforming, puzzles, shooting and minigames provide variety, while generous checkpoints reduce frustration.

It is a two-player game from beginning to end, with local split-screen available on PS5. Choose it over Split Fiction if one partner is relatively new to controllers or the group prefers a warmer, relationship-driven adventure.

3. Baldur’s Gate 3 — Best Split-Screen RPG

Baldur’s Gate 3 gives two local players far more independence than most couch games. Each person can build a character, explore, begin conversations and influence major decisions. Turn-based battles give partners time to discuss spells and positioning, making the game more about shared judgment than reflexes.

The interface is dense, so a large television helps. The game can merge views when characters stay together and separate them when they move apart. On PS5 Pro, the developer offers split-screen in 30fps Quality and 60fps Performance modes; regular PS5 also supports the feature, but long inventory sessions remain easier when both players are patient.

4. Borderlands 4 — Best Modern Split-Screen Shooter

Borderlands 4 combines first-person shooting, character builds and a constant stream of weapons. PS5 supports two-player couch split-screen, and the local pair can join online players for a party of up to four. Individual loot helps avoid arguments over drops, while adjustable difficulty makes it easier to accommodate different skill levels.

It is the best shooter here for a long cooperative campaign. Four friends on one PS5 should choose Borderlands 3 instead, because Borderlands 4 limits local split-screen to two.

5. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds — Best Four-Player Racer

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds supports up to four players in offline split-screen races on PS5. Its transforming tracks and CrossWorld portals regularly move racers into different environments, while items keep newcomers involved even when an experienced player understands every racing line.

Grand Prix and Race Park make it suitable for quick gatherings. It is a stronger party choice than Gran Turismo 7 because four people can participate locally, although players seeking realistic car handling should prefer GT7.

6. Minecraft: Bedrock Edition — Best Family Sandbox

Minecraft lets up to four people share a PS5 world in split-screen. The open structure suits mixed ages and abilities: one player can gather resources, another can build, and a third can explore without forcing the entire group through a scripted objective.

Every local participant needs a controller. Online connections, Realms and outside friends introduce separate Microsoft-account and subscription considerations, but a basic same-console world is the clearest family option on this list.

7. Gran Turismo 7 — Best Realistic Split-Screen Racing

Gran Turismo 7 offers two-player split-screen races for drivers who care about braking points, tire grip and recognizable road and racing cars. It is ideal for direct competition after players have unlocked enough vehicles and circuits through the main game.

The limit is two local players, not four. PS VR2 is also incompatible with two-player split-screen, so both drivers use the television view. For a larger or more casual group, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds or DIRT 5 is a better fit.

8. Fortnite — Best Free PS5 Split-Screen Game

Fortnite supports two-player split-screen on PlayStation in selected experiences, including Battle Royale, Zero Build and supported LEGO Fortnite modes. Both players need separate Epic accounts, and the second player signs in after the first enters the lobby.

Mode support can change, and competitive tournaments do not allow split-screen. Treat it as a convenient way for two people to join casual Duos or Squads, not as a universal local mode across every creator island or event.

9–11. More Great PS5 Split-Screen Games

Borderlands 3 supports up to four local players in its PS5 version, making it the shooter to choose for a full couch. Its enormous weapon pool and campaign provide strong value, though four inventories and viewports can feel cramped on a small screen.

DIRT 5 also supports four-player split-screen on PS5. Its colorful off-road events are easier to approach than a simulation, and split-screen is available across multiple offline modes. Rocket League is the best choice for ten-minute sessions: car football is instantly readable, but its aerial control offers years of mastery. Local players can compete together or enter supported online matches, subject to account requirements.

How to Set Up Split-Screen on PS5

1. Install the PS5 or compatible PS4 version and finish any required introduction.
2. Connect a second DualSense controller and assign it to another user or the account type the game permits.
3. Open the game’s Local, Couch Co-op, Multiplayer or Split-Screen menu.
4. Press the displayed join button on each additional controller.
5. Check whether the chosen mode requires publisher accounts, PlayStation Plus or an internet connection.

If the second player cannot join, update the game, confirm that the exact mode supports split-screen and restart with both controllers already connected. Do not assume every mode supports the same local player count.

How to Choose the Right Couch Game

• For a two-player story: choose Split Fiction or It Takes Two.
• For a long RPG: Baldur’s Gate 3 offers the deepest choices and combat.
• For four people: try Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, Minecraft, Borderlands 3, DIRT 5 or Rocket League.
• For free play: Fortnite is the strongest option, but requires accounts and supported modes.
• For a small television: prefer two-player games; four-way interfaces can become difficult to read.
• For offline sessions: verify that installation, updates and any initial account checks are complete before guests arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions