The Ultimate Guide to PS4 Two-Player Split-Screen Games (2024 Edition)
Introduction
Split-screen gaming on PS4 offers an unparalleled social gaming experience, allowing you to share the action side-by-side with friends and family. Whether you're looking for cooperative adventures or competitive showdowns, this guide covers the best PS4 two-player split-screen games across all genres. We'll explore top titles, hidden gems, and essential tips to maximize your couch co-op experience.
Why Split-Screen Gaming Matters
In an era dominated by online multiplayer, split-screen gaming provides:
Immediate face-to-face interaction
No need for multiple consoles or subscriptions
Shared reactions and memorable moments
Cost-effective entertainment
Top 15 PS4 Split-Screen Games
1. It Takes Two (2021)
Genre: Adventure/Platformer
Players: 2
Why It's Special:
This Hazelight Studios masterpiece won multiple Game of the Year awards for its innovative co-op design. Players control Cody and May, a couple navigating fantastical challenges that metaphorically represent their relationship struggles.
Key Features:
Mandatory two-player gameplay
Varied gameplay mechanics (shooter, platformer, puzzle sections)
10-12 hour emotional story
Beautifully crafted environments
2. Diablo III: Eternal Collection
Genre: Action RPG
Players: 2-4
Why It's Special:
The ultimate loot-driven adventure perfect for grinding together.
Key Features:
Shared-screen multiplayer
Seven character classes
Reaper of Souls and Rise of the Necromancer content included
Hundreds of hours of content
3. Borderlands: The Handsome Collection
Genre: Looter Shooter
Players: 2-4
Why It's Special:
Contains Borderlands 2 and The Pre-Sequel with all DLC.
Key Features:
Millions of gun combinations
Raid bosses requiring teamwork
Signature humor and art style
Character-specific skill trees
4. Overcooked! 2
Genre: Party/Simulation
Players: 2-4
Why It's Special:
The ultimate test of friendship and communication.
Key Features:
Chaotic kitchen management
40+ increasingly complex levels
Online and local multiplayer
"Throw" mechanic adds new strategies
5. Rocket League
Genre: Sports/Action
Players: 2-4
Why It's Special:
Soccer meets rocket-powered cars in this physics-based phenomenon.
Key Features:
Split-screen online multiplayer
Regular content updates
Competitive ranking system
Customizable vehicles
6. Minecraft
Genre: Sandbox
Players: 2-4
Why It's Special:
Limitless creativity in shared worlds.
Key Features:
Survival or creative modes
Cross-platform play
Regular content updates
Educational benefits
7. LEGO Games Series
Genre: Action-Adventure
Players: 2
Why It's Special:
Includes LEGO Star Wars, Marvel, Harry Potter, and more.
Key Features:
Drop-in/drop-out co-op
Hundreds of collectibles
Family-friendly humor
Accessible gameplay
8. A Way Out
Genre: Adventure
Players: 2
Why It's Special:
A cinematic prison-break experience designed exclusively for two.
Key Features:
Unique split-screen presentation
Varied gameplay sequences
Emotional narrative
6-8 hour playtime
9. Call of Duty: Black Ops III
Genre: FPS
Players: 2
Why It's Special:
One of the last COD games with full split-screen support.
Key Features:
Campaign, Zombies, and Multiplayer modes
Character customization
Weapon crafting
4-player Zombies mode
10. Gran Turismo Sport
Genre: Racing
Players: 2
Why It's Special:
Realistic driving simulation with split-screen.
Key Features:
150+ cars
VR support
Driving school mode
Regular content updates
Hidden Gem Split-Screen Titles
11. Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime
Genre: Action
Players: 2-4
Why Try It:
Unique spaceship management requiring perfect coordination.
12. TowerFall Ascension
Genre: Battle Arena
Players: 2-4
Why Try It:
Precision archery combat with simple but deep mechanics.
13. Human: Fall Flat
Genre: Puzzle/Platformer
Players: 2
Why Try It:
Hilarious physics-based problem solving.
14. Helldivers
Genre: Shooter
Players: 2-4
Why Try It:
Intense top-down cooperative shooting.
15. Wipeout Omega Collection
Genre: Racing
Players: 2
Why Try It:
Futuristic anti-gravity racing at breakneck speeds.
Split-Screen Gaming Setup Tips
Display Optimization
Use a large TV (55"+ ideal)
Enable Game Mode to reduce input lag
Adjust brightness for both players
Audio Considerations
Headphone splitters allow private audio
Balance game/chat audio in settings
Controller Setup
Ensure both controllers are charged
Customize button mappings if needed
Consider controller grips for long sessions
The Future of Split-Screen Gaming
While many developers have moved away from split-screen support, the PS4 remains a treasure trove of local multiplayer experiences. The resurgence of couch co-op in games like It Takes Two proves there's still strong demand for shared-screen gameplay.
Pro Tip: Many split-screen games go on sale during PlayStation Store promotions - create a wishlist and wait for discounts!
FAQ
Q: Can you play PS4 split-screen online with others?
A: Some games like Rocket League and Borderlands support combined local/online multiplayer.
Q: Do both players need PSN accounts?
A: For most games, only one player needs PS Plus for online features.
Q: What's the best split-screen game for beginners?
A: LEGO games offer the most accessible experience for new players.
Conclusion
From heartwarming cooperative adventures like It Takes Two to competitive classics like Rocket League, PS4 offers an incredible variety of two player games split-screen experiences. These games create lasting memories and strengthen relationships through shared challenges and triumphs.
What's your favorite PS4 split-screen game? Share your top picks in the comments below!
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