The 16 Best Split-Screen Games on Xbox Series X|S
- Split-screen games on Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One are still a great way to enjoy gaming with friends and family, offering fun local multiplayer experiences.
- Xbox has always been a leader in split-screen gaming, with classics like Halo: Combat Evolved and Gears of War setting the stage for unforgettable couch co-op moments.
- Whether you're into racing, shooting, puzzles, or adventures, there's a fantastic lineup of split-screen games to choose from, making it easy to find the perfect game for your next get-together.
In this article, we’ll explore the best split-screen games available on these consoles, showcasing titles that balance fun and friendly competition. So, grab your controllers, invite your friends over, and get ready to dive into the world of split-screen gaming—just remember, it’s all in good fun, even if the rivalry heats up!
Table of Contents
- Best Split-Screen Games on Xbox Series X|S & Xbox One
- 1. It Takes Two
- 2. Halo: The Master Chief Collection
- 3. Gears 5
- 4. Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled
- 5. Cuphead
- 6. Overcooked! All You Can Eat
- 7. Star Wars Battlefront II
- 8. Rocket League
- 9. Borderlands 3
- 10. Minecraft
- 11. Human: Fall Flat
- 12. A Way Out
- 13. Resident Evil 5
- 14. Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
- 15. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge
- 16. Hot Wheels Unleashed
Best Split-Screen Games on Xbox Series X|S & Xbox One
Below, we have curated a list of the best split-screen games available on modern Xbox platforms that you will surely enjoy.
1. It Takes Two
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: Action-Adventure
- Released: March 26, 2021
- Price: $39.99
It Takes Two is a unique co-op adventure that requires two players to work together to navigate a whimsical world. The game was designed from the ground up for local and online co-op, and its split-screen functionality is integral to the gameplay experience. Players control two dolls, Cody and May, who represent a couple going through a rough patch.
The split-screen view allows each player to see their character’s perspective and the environment, enhancing communication and teamwork as they solve puzzles and overcome challenges together. The game’s design encourages players to collaborate closely, making it a standout title for local co-op play.
2. Halo: The Master Chief Collection
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: First-Person Shooter
- Released: November 11, 2014
- Price: $39.99
Halo: The Master Chief Collection offers an extensive collection of the beloved Halo series, featuring split-screen capabilities across its various titles. This compilation allows players to engage in both cooperative campaign modes and competitive multiplayer matches on the same screen. The split-screen functionality was available from the outset, making it a staple for local multiplayer gaming on the Xbox platform.
The split-screen experience in Halo: The Master Chief Collection enhances the thrill of battling against Covenant forces or competing against friends in multiplayer matches. Players can strategize and coordinate their actions in real-time, creating a more immersive and engaging experience.
3. Gears 5
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: Third-Person Shooter
- Released: September 10, 2019
- Price: $29.99
Gears 5 continues the legacy of the Gears of War franchise with its intense gameplay and engaging story. The game supports split-screen co-op from the start, allowing players to team up and tackle the campaign together. This feature is particularly beneficial in the game’s various modes, including the campaign, Horde mode, and Escape mode, where teamwork is crucial for survival against waves of enemies.
The split-screen functionality in Gears 5 enhances the cooperative experience by allowing players to strategize and execute tactics in real time. The ability to share the screen fosters a sense of camaraderie as players navigate through the game’s rich environments and face formidable foes. The game’s focus on cooperative gameplay makes it an excellent choice for friends looking to enjoy a thrilling gaming session together.
4. Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: Racing
- Released: June 21, 2019
- Price: $39.99
Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled revitalizes the classic kart racing experience with modern graphics and gameplay while retaining the charm of its predecessor. The game features split-screen multiplayer, allowing up to four players to race against each other on the same console. This functionality was available right at launch, making it a perfect choice for parties or family gaming nights.
The split-screen mode enhances the competitive spirit of Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled as players can see their opponents’ positions and strategies in real-time. The vibrant tracks and power-ups create an exhilarating atmosphere, and the ability to race side by side adds to the excitement and fun.
5. Cuphead
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: Run and Gun
- Released: September 29, 2017
- Price: $19.99
Cuphead is renowned for its stunning hand-drawn art style and challenging gameplay. The game supports local co-op play with split-screen functionality, allowing two players to control Cuphead and Mugman as they battle through a series of challenging bosses. This feature was available from the game’s release, making it a favorite for players seeking a cooperative challenge.
The split-screen experience in Cuphead enhances the gameplay by allowing players to strategize and coordinate their attacks against tough bosses. The game’s difficulty is balanced by the ability to revive fallen teammates, adding a layer of strategy to each encounter. Working together to overcome the game’s challenges fosters a sense of achievement and camaraderie, making it a perfect choice for players looking to share a unique gaming experience.
6. Overcooked! All You Can Eat
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: Simulation
- Released: March 23, 2021
- Price: $39.99
Overcooked! All You Can Eat combines the beloved cooking chaos of the Overcooked! series into one comprehensive package. The game features split-screen functionality, allowing players to work together in the kitchen to prepare and serve meals under time constraints. This feature was integral to the gameplay from the beginning, making it a staple for cooperative gaming.
The split-screen mode in Overcooked! All You Can Eat enhances the frantic and fun nature of the game. Players must communicate effectively and coordinate their actions to succeed, leading to hilarious moments and shared laughter.
The chaotic kitchen environments and diverse challenges require teamwork and strategy, making it an ideal choice for friends or family looking to enjoy a lighthearted yet competitive gaming experience.
7. Star Wars Battlefront II
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: Shooter
- Released: November 17, 2017
- Price: $29.99
Star Wars Battlefront II allows players to immerse themselves in the iconic universe of Star Wars, featuring split-screen multiplayer for both cooperative and competitive gameplay. This functionality was available at launch, enabling players to team up in the campaign or face off against each other in various multiplayer modes.
The split-screen feature enhances the experience by allowing players to engage in epic battles side by side. Whether fighting against the Galactic Empire or the Rebellion, players can strategize and share the excitement of the battlefield. The ability to see each other’s actions and coordinate tactics adds depth to the gameplay, making it a fantastic choice for fans of the franchise looking to share the adventure.
8. Rocket League
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: Sports
- Released: July 7, 2015
- Price: Free (with in-game purchases)
Rocket League combines soccer with rocket-powered cars, creating a unique and exhilarating gaming experience. The game supports split-screen multiplayer, allowing players to compete against each other or team up in local matches. This feature has been a part of the game since its launch, making it accessible for couch co-op play.
The split-screen functionality in Rocket League enhances the competitive atmosphere as players can see their opponents’ movements and strategies in real-time. The fast-paced gameplay and dynamic arenas create an exciting environment for friendly competition. Whether scoring goals or executing aerial maneuvers, players find the split-screen mode adds to the exhilaration and excitement of the game.
9. Borderlands 3
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: Action RPG
- Released: September 13, 2019
- Price: $59.99
Borderlands 3 continues the series’ tradition of cooperative gameplay with its engaging story and loot-driven mechanics. The game features split-screen functionality, allowing players to team up locally to explore the vast world of Pandora and take on various missions. This feature was available from the game’s release, making it a favorite for co-op enthusiasts.
The split-screen experience in Borderlands 3 enhances the fun of exploring the game’s rich environments and engaging in combat. Players can share the thrill of discovering loot and leveling up their characters together. The cooperative gameplay encourages teamwork and strategy, making it an excellent choice for friends looking to embark on an adventure together.
10. Minecraft
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: Sandbox
- Released: November 18, 2011
- Price: $29.99
Minecraft has become a cultural phenomenon, offering players the freedom to build and explore in a blocky world. The game supports split-screen multiplayer, allowing players to share the same screen while collaborating on building projects or exploring together. This feature has been part of the game for many years, making it accessible for local co-op play.
The split-screen functionality in Minecraft enhances the creative experience as players can work together to build elaborate structures or embark on adventures. The ability to see each other’s actions and collaborate in real-time fosters a sense of teamwork and creativity. Whether constructing a fortress or exploring caves, players find the split-screen mode adds to the enjoyment of the game.
11. Human: Fall Flat
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: Puzzle-Platformer
- Released: July 22, 2016
- Price: $14.99
Human: Fall Flat is a physics-based puzzle platformer that encourages creativity and collaboration. The game features split-screen multiplayer, allowing players to work together to solve puzzles and navigate through various whimsical environments. This functionality was available from the start, making it a great choice for local co-op gaming.
The split-screen experience in Human: Fall Flat enhances the fun of solving puzzles together, as players can see each other’s movements and collaborate in real-time. The game’s quirky physics and humorous interactions lead to hilarious moments, making it a delightful choice for friends looking to enjoy a lighthearted gaming session.
12. A Way Out
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Genre: Action-Adventure
