Palworld has split screen on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5, but not on PC

Palworld supports local split screen multiplayer on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. On Switch, you can play with up to four players on one screen using multiple controllers. On PlayStation 5, split screen works with up to four players as well. If you're playing on PC, split screen is not available — you'll need to use online multiplayer instead, which supports up to four players on a dedicated server or peer-to-peer connection.

Split screen means both players share the same TV or monitor and play in the same world at the same time. This is different from online multiplayer, where each player is on their own device. Split screen is useful if you want to play with someone in the same room without needing a second console or PC.

Key Takeaways

  • Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 both support local split screen with up to four players on one screen.
  • PC version of Palworld does not have split screen; you must use online multiplayer with separate devices.
  • On console, you need multiple controllers connected to the same system to play split screen.
  • Split screen and online multiplayer are separate features — you cannot mix local and online players in the same session.

Split Screen on Nintendo Switch

To play split screen on Switch, connect multiple controllers to your console before starting the game. The game supports up to four controllers, so you can have up to four players in one world. Each player gets their own portion of the screen, and you all move around the same map together.

You'll need a separate controller for each player beyond the first one. The Switch Joy-Con controllers work, as do Pro Controllers or third-party controllers that are compatible with the system. Make sure all controllers are paired with your Switch before you launch Palworld.

Split Screen on PlayStation 5

PlayStation 5 split screen works the same way as Switch: connect multiple controllers and start a local multiplayer session. Up to four players can play together on one screen. You need a separate DualSense controller or compatible third-party controller for each additional player.

Unlike some other games, Palworld's PS5 split screen does not require a PlayStation Plus subscription for the local players — only online multiplayer requires that subscription. If you want to add online players to your split screen session, that's not possible; split screen and online multiplayer are separate modes.

Why PC Doesn't Have Split Screen

The PC version of Palworld was built around online multiplayer from the start, and split screen was not added to that version. PC players can use online multiplayer with up to four players on a server, but they cannot play split screen on the same monitor with multiple controllers.

If you want to play Palworld with someone else on PC, you have two options: play online multiplayer if you each have your own PC, or switch to Nintendo Switch or PlayStation 5 if you want to play together on one screen. Some PC players use third-party software to simulate split screen, but this is not officially supported and may cause performance issues or crashes.

Setting Up Multiple Controllers for Split Screen

Before you start Palworld, pair all your controllers with your console. On Switch, go to System Settings, then Controllers and Sensors, then Change Grip/Order. On PlayStation 5, go to Settings, then Accessories, then Controllers. Make sure each controller shows as connected.

Once all controllers are paired, launch Palworld and select the local multiplayer option from the main menu. The game will detect how many controllers are connected and let you assign each one to a player. You can start with up to four players in the same world, and you can add or remove players between sessions.

Online Multiplayer as an Alternative on PC

If you're on PC and want to play with others, use the online multiplayer mode instead. You can host a server or join someone else's server, and up to four players can play together. Each player needs their own PC and their own copy of the game.

Online multiplayer on PC is free if you host your own server, though you can also rent a dedicated server from a third-party host. The host can set the server to private so only invited players can join, or public so anyone can find it. Performance depends on your internet connection and the server's location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play split screen with online players at the same time?

No. Split screen and online multiplayer are separate modes. You can either play split screen with local controllers, or online multiplayer with remote players, but not both in the same session.

Do I need PlayStation Plus to play split screen on PS5?

No. Local split screen does not require a PlayStation Plus subscription. You only need it if you want to play online multiplayer with players on other consoles.

What controllers work for split screen on Switch?

Joy-Con controllers, Pro Controllers, and most third-party controllers that are compatible with Switch will work. Each player needs their own controller. You cannot play split screen with just one controller.

Can I play split screen on PC with a controller?

Palworld on PC does not have split screen, even with multiple controllers connected. You would need to use online multiplayer with a separate PC for each player.

How many players can play split screen at once?

Up to four players can play split screen on both Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. You need four controllers connected to the console to have all four players active.