Split-screen gaming keeps the classic couch experience alive, letting two players share the action on a single television. The PlayStation 5 hosts a fantastic collection of split-screen titles spanning racing, shooters, sports, and cooperative adventures. Nothing beats the energy of playing side by side with a friend or family member. Below we rank the best split-screen games on PS5 in 2026, highlighting local multiplayer that shines on one screen.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick answer: For most people in 2026, the best split screen games ps5 (2026) is the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III — our #1 rated choice. See the full ranked comparison, alternatives and buying advice below.
Best Split Screen Games PS5 (2026): Quick Comparison
| Game | Platform | Genre | Why It’s Great | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III | PS5 | FPS | Split-screen multiplayer modes | 8.5/10 |
| Borderlands 3 | PS5 | Looter Shooter | Two-player loot chaos | 8.6/10 |
| Gran Turismo 7 | PS5 | Racing | Two-player split-screen racing | 8.9/10 |
| Diablo IV | PS5 | Action RPG | Shared-screen loot grinding | 8.7/10 |
| Minecraft | PS5 | Sandbox | Split-screen creative co-op | 9.0/10 |
| EA Sports FC 25 | PS5 | Sports | Local versus and co-op | 8.4/10 |
| Rocket League | PS5 | Sports | Split-screen car soccer | 9.0/10 |
| LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga | PS5 | Action Adventure | Family-friendly split co-op | 8.9/10 |
How We Ranked the Best Split-Screen Games on PS5
Split-screen is increasingly rare, so we prioritized titles that genuinely support two players on one console. We weighed frame-rate stability in split mode, genre variety, and how enjoyable each game is locally. Accessibility for casual and hardcore players alike also counted. A larger, high-refresh display makes split-screen far more comfortable, so a gaming monitor buying guide is worth reviewing first.
Rocket League: A Split Screen Games PS5 Essential
Rocket League combines soccer with rocket-powered cars for an endlessly replayable competitive experience. Its split-screen mode lets two players compete or team up in fast, physics-driven matches that are easy to learn but tough to master. The quick match length makes it perfect for pick-up-and-play sessions. Every goal feels earned, and the skill ceiling keeps duos coming back. A responsive PS5 controller buying guide helps you nail those aerial shots.
Gran Turismo 7: Premier Split-Screen Racing
Gran Turismo 7 delivers gorgeous, authentic racing with a dedicated two-player split-screen mode. Racing side by side across meticulously recreated tracks and hundreds of cars is a thrill on PS5. The realistic handling rewards practice while remaining approachable for newcomers. Its stunning visuals and dynamic weather make it a showcase title. To feel every rev and tire screech, pair it with a quality gaming headset buying guide.
Borderlands 3 and Diablo IV: Loot on One Screen
Borderlands 3 brings its chaotic looter-shooter action to split-screen, letting two vault hunters blast through hordes and collect billions of guns together. Diablo IV supports shared-screen couch co-op, combining deep character builds with satisfying combat in a dark fantasy world. Both reward long-term progression and teamwork. These loot-heavy games benefit from fast loading, so review a gaming SSD buying guide to minimize wait times between areas.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III
The Call of Duty series continues to support split-screen multiplayer, and Modern Warfare III lets two players battle online opponents from the same couch. Its tight gunplay, varied maps, and fast pace make it a go-to for competitive duos. Whether you are teaming up or ranking up together, the split-screen option keeps the classic local experience alive. A precise gaming mouse buying guide is handy if you also play the PC version.
EA Sports FC 25 and Minecraft
EA Sports FC 25 delivers authentic football action with local versus and co-op modes perfect for competitive friends and family. Minecraft, meanwhile, offers split-screen creative and survival play where two builders can craft entire worlds together. Both cater to completely different moods, from intense sports rivalry to relaxed creativity. Storing large worlds and rosters is easier with expanded storage, so a PS5 SSD expansion buying guide is worth a look.
LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is the ideal family split-screen game, covering all nine films with drop-in cooperative play. Its lighthearted humor, accessible puzzles, and enormous galaxy make it endlessly replayable for all ages. Younger players can enjoy it alongside veterans thanks to forgiving mechanics. It is one of the most welcoming split-screen experiences on PS5 and a fantastic introduction to local co-op gaming.
Choosing the Right Split-Screen Game for PS5
For fast competitive fun, Rocket League and Gran Turismo 7 are hard to beat. Shooter fans should try Borderlands 3 or Modern Warfare III, while loot lovers have Diablo IV. Sports rivals will enjoy EA Sports FC 25, and families thrive with Minecraft and LEGO Star Wars. Although split-screen is less common today, these titles prove the couch experience is alive and well on PS5 in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are split-screen games less common on PS5?
Rendering two views simultaneously demands significant processing power, and many modern developers prioritize online multiplayer instead. High-fidelity graphics make split-screen harder to implement without performance compromises. Fortunately, plenty of PS5 titles still support the mode, and the ones on this list run well while preserving the classic couch co-op experience.
Do I need two controllers for split-screen PS5 games?
Yes, split-screen play requires two DualSense controllers, one for each player. The PS5 includes one controller in the box, so a second is necessary for local two-player sessions. Both controllers must be paired to the console, and each game will prompt the second player to join with their controller.
What size TV is best for split-screen gaming?
A larger screen greatly improves split-screen comfort since each player’s view is halved. A television or monitor of at least 43 inches, or a high-quality gaming monitor, ensures both players can see clearly. A higher refresh rate and low input lag also enhance responsiveness during fast-paced split-screen matches.
Can you play split-screen and online at the same time on PS5?
Some games, such as Call of Duty and Rocket League, allow two local split-screen players to compete together in online matches. This requires each player to be signed in, and the account hosting may need a PlayStation Plus subscription. Support varies by title, so check each game’s multiplayer options beforehand.
Ready to decide? Our #1 pick for 2026 is the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III.
Live price & availability on Amazon.