The Definitive List of Best Split Screen PS5 Games in 2024

Published 18 December 2025

Split-screen gaming on the PS5 isn’t just a relic of the past—it’s a thriving ecosystem where local multiplayer experiences rival online play. The console’s robust hardware and optimized titles have redefined how friends and families share the screen, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge gameplay. Whether you’re battling in a chaotic shooter or teaming up for a cooperative heist, the best split-screen PS5 games deliver unparalleled immersion without sacrificing accessibility.

What makes these games stand out? It’s not just about sharing a controller—it’s about seamless integration of local play into modern design. Developers have embraced split-screen as a core feature, ensuring fluid transitions between single-player and multiplayer modes. The result? A library of titles where competitive and cooperative play thrive side by side, often surpassing their single-player counterparts in depth and replayability.

But not all split-screen experiences are created equal. Some games treat it as an afterthought, while others elevate it to an art form. The difference lies in mechanics, player interaction, and how well the game balances solo and multiplayer modes. This guide cuts through the noise to highlight the crème de la crème of best split screen PS5 games, analyzing their strengths, historical context, and what the future holds for local multiplayer.

The Complete Overview of Best Split Screen PS5 Games

The PS5’s split-screen landscape is a testament to Sony’s commitment to preserving local multiplayer while pushing technological boundaries. Unlike earlier consoles, where split-screen was often a gimmick, today’s titles treat it as a premium feature. Games like Astro’s Playroom and Returnal showcase how split-screen can enhance storytelling and gameplay, while franchises like Gran Turismo and FIFA have redefined competitive multiplayer with split-screen as a staple.

What’s driving this evolution? Three key factors: hardware advancements (like the PS5’s SSD and DualSense haptics), developer focus on accessibility, and a cultural shift toward shared gaming experiences. The result is a library where split-screen isn’t just functional—it’s a cornerstone of the experience. From asymmetrical co-op in It Takes Two to high-stakes racing in Gran Turismo 7, these games prove that local multiplayer remains a vital part of gaming culture.

Historical Background and Evolution

The roots of split-screen gaming trace back to the arcade era, but it was the PlayStation 2 that popularized it in home consoles with titles like Twisted Metal and SOCOM. By the time the PS3 arrived, split-screen had become a standard feature, though often limited by technical constraints. The PS4 era saw a resurgence, with games like Rocket League and Overwatch proving that local multiplayer could coexist with online play—even if the latter dominated.

The PS5 has flipped the script. With its powerful hardware, developers now prioritize split-screen as a first-class citizen. Games like Astro’s Playroom (a love letter to PS1-era split-screen) and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (which uses split-screen for co-op missions) demonstrate how modern tech can revive classic mechanics. Meanwhile, Gran Turismo 7 and FIFA 23 have redefined competitive split-screen, offering near-online experiences with local play. This shift reflects a broader trend: players crave tangible, shared experiences that digital multiplayer can’t always replicate.

Core Mechanics: How It Works

At its core, split-screen on the PS5 relies on two pillars: hardware optimization and design philosophy. The console’s SSD allows for instant load times, ensuring smooth transitions between players, while the DualSense controller’s adaptive triggers and haptic feedback enhance immersion. But the real magic happens in the game design. Developers use split-screen in three primary ways: symmetric (players control identical characters), asymmetric (distinct roles), and hybrid (mixing single-player and multiplayer elements).

Take It Takes Two as an example. Its split-screen isn’t just a gimmick—it’s the entire experience. The game’s mechanics are built around dual-player interaction, from cooperative puzzles to combat synergy. Meanwhile, Astro’s Playroom uses split-screen to recreate the joy of playing PS1 games together, complete with shared levels and competitive modes. The key difference? One game treats split-screen as a narrative tool, while the other leverages it for pure, unadulterated fun. Both approaches highlight why the PS5’s split-screen library is so diverse and compelling.

Key Benefits and Crucial Impact

The resurgence of split-screen on the PS5 isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a response to modern gaming habits. In an era where online multiplayer can feel isolating or toxic, local play offers a tangible, low-pressure alternative. It’s easier to gather friends for a quick match of FIFA than to coordinate online play, and the lack of internet dependency means fewer frustrations. Additionally, split-screen games often encourage deeper engagement, as players must communicate and strategize in real time.

Beyond accessibility, split-screen enhances replayability. Games like Returnal and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart invite players to revisit levels with a friend, creating new challenges and memories. This social aspect is what sets the best PS5 multiplayer games apart—they’re not just about winning or losing; they’re about shared experiences that transcend the screen.

"Split-screen isn’t just about sharing a controller—it’s about sharing a moment. The best games make you feel like you’re in the room together, even if you’re just sitting on the couch."

— Hideo Kojima, creator of Death Stranding (which features split-screen co-op)

Major Advantages

• No Internet Required: Play with friends without worrying about lag, matchmaking, or online toxicity. Split-screen is instant, reliable, and always available.
• Enhanced Social Interaction: Local play encourages face-to-face communication, making games like Overcooked! 2 more chaotic—and fun—in person.
• Replayability: Co-op games like It Takes Two and Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves offer new perspectives and challenges when played with a partner.
• Accessibility: Split-screen lowers the barrier to entry for casual players, as there’s no need to navigate complex online menus or account systems.
• Nostalgia with a Modern Twist: Games like Astro’s Playroom and Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled blend retro charm with next-gen graphics and gameplay.

Comparative Analysis

Not all split-screen games are equal. Some excel in competitive play, while others shine in cooperative settings. Below is a comparison of four standout titles across key metrics:

Future Trends and Innovations

The future of split-screen on the PS5 looks brighter than ever, thanks to advancements in AI and cloud gaming. One emerging trend is the integration of hybrid multiplayer—where local and online players can interact seamlessly. Imagine a game where you and a friend play split-screen while competing against online opponents in the same match. Developers are also experimenting with AI-driven split-screen companions, allowing single players to enjoy co-op experiences without a partner.

Another exciting development is the rise of "split-screen as a service." Games like FIFA and Gran Turismo are already leading the charge by offering frequent updates and competitive modes that keep local play fresh. As VR and mixed reality grow, we may even see split-screen experiences that blur the line between physical and digital spaces. For now, the PS5’s library of best PS5 co-op games remains unmatched, but the innovations on the horizon promise to redefine what’s possible.

Conclusion

The PS5 has revitalized split-screen gaming, proving that local multiplayer isn’t just for the past—it’s a vital part of the future. From high-octane racing to heartfelt co-op adventures, the console’s best split-screen games offer something for every type of player. They’re a reminder that gaming is, at its core, a social experience, and nothing beats the joy of sharing a controller with friends.

As technology evolves, so too will split-screen mechanics. Whether through AI companions, hybrid multiplayer, or entirely new forms of interaction, one thing is certain: the era of split-screen gaming is far from over. For now, the PS5’s library stands as a testament to how far the medium has come—and how much farther it can go.

Comprehensive FAQs

Q: Are split-screen PS5 games better than online multiplayer?

It depends on the game and your preferences. Split-screen offers instant, reliable play without lag or toxicity, making it ideal for casual or local gatherings. Online multiplayer, however, provides larger player pools and more competitive depth. Some games, like Gran Turismo 7, even offer near-identical experiences for both local and online play.

Q: Can I play split-screen on PS5 with a friend who doesn’t own the game?

No, both players must own the game for split-screen to work. The PS5 does not support cross-play for local multiplayer in the same way online modes do. Some games, like Astro’s Playroom, are included with the console, making them easier to share.

Q: Do all PS5 games support split-screen?

No, split-screen is not universal. While many multiplayer games include it as a feature, single-player titles or those designed primarily for online play often lack local multiplayer support. Always check a game’s features before purchasing if split-screen is a priority.

Q: How does split-screen affect performance on the PS5?

Split-screen can sometimes reduce frame rates or graphics settings, as the console must divide its resources between players. However, the PS5’s hardware is powerful enough to handle most split-screen games smoothly, especially in lower-resolution modes. Games like FIFA and Gran Turismo are optimized to minimize performance drops.

Q: Are there any split-screen games that support more than two players?

Yes, but they’re rarer. Most PS5 split-screen games are designed for two players, though a few, like Overcooked! 2 (up to 4 players) and Rocket League (split-screen for two teams), offer limited local multiplayer support. The PS5’s hardware constraints make four-player split-screen difficult to implement without significant compromises.

• PS5 multiplayer games
• Sony PlayStation 5
• best co-op games
• gaming trends
• local multiplayer
• split-screen gaming