Phasmophobia does not have split screen on any platform right now

Phasmophobia is an online multiplayer game only — you cannot play it split screen on your TV with a controller next to someone else on the same screen. The game requires each player to have their own copy and their own internet connection. On PC, you play through Steam with a keyboard and mouse or controller. On PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, you each need your own console and your own copy of the game to play together.

The game was designed from the start as an online multiplayer experience where players connect over the internet. The developers have not announced any plans to add split screen support, and the way the game is built makes local split screen unlikely to happen in the future.

Key Takeaways

  • Phasmophobia requires each player to own a copy of the game and connect online — split screen is not an option on PC, PlayStation 5, or Xbox Series X/S.
  • You can play with up to three other people online at the same time, but everyone needs their own screen and internet connection.
  • On console, you need separate controllers and separate accounts, but you can sit in the same room while playing online together.
  • If you want to play together in person without separate screens, you will need to look for a different game that supports local split screen.

How multiplayer works in Phasmophobia

The game supports up to four players in one match, but they all connect through the internet. You create or join a lobby, and the game pairs you with other players or your friends. Each person sees their own full screen and controls their own character independently. The game runs on your own hardware — your PC or console — and talks to the game servers to keep everyone in sync.

On PC, you launch the game through Steam and invite friends through Steam's friends list or by sharing a lobby code. On PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, you use the console's built-in party system or the game's own lobby system. There is no way to bypass this and play on a single screen.

Playing together in the same room without split screen

You can absolutely sit next to someone and play Phasmophobia together online. Many people do this — they sit on the same couch with separate controllers and separate screens (like two monitors on a desk, or two TVs in the same room). You are still playing online, but you are physically in the same space.

On console, this works best if you have two TVs or if one person uses a monitor while the other uses the TV. Each player needs their own controller and their own account on the console. On PC, you can use two separate computers in the same room, or one person can use a monitor while the other uses a laptop.

Console versions and their limitations

Phasmophobia came to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S in late 2023. The console versions have the same online multiplayer system as the PC version — no split screen, and no local co-op mode. You cannot play on a single TV with one controller per person the way you can in games like Call of Duty or It Takes Two.

The console versions do support cross-play, meaning PC players can join matches with PlayStation and Xbox players. This makes it easier to find games, but it does not change the fact that everyone needs their own screen and internet connection.

Games that do have split screen if you need that feature

If split screen is important to you, Phasmophobia is not the right choice. Games like It Takes Two, A Way Out, and Overcooked 2 all support local split screen on console and PC. Grounded supports split screen on Xbox and PlayStation. Deep Rock Galactic has local co-op on console versions. These games let you and another player share one screen with separate controllers.

If you want a horror game with split screen specifically, your options are much smaller. Most modern horror games, including Phasmophobia, are built around online multiplayer instead of local play. Checking a game's feature list before you buy is the best way to know whether it supports split screen.

What the developers have said about split screen

The Phasmophobia development team has not publicly committed to adding split screen. In interviews and community posts, they have focused on improving the online multiplayer experience and adding new ghost types and maps. The game's engine and design are built around online play, which would make adding split screen a significant overhaul rather than a simple feature addition.

The game is still in active development, and the team does release updates regularly. If split screen support ever comes, it would likely be announced on the official Phasmophobia social media accounts or the game's community Discord server. For now, assume it is not coming and plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play Phasmophobia with my friend on the same couch?

Yes, if you have two screens and two controllers or keyboards. You sit next to each other but each play on your own screen, connected online. If you need to share one TV with one controller, Phasmophobia does not support that.

Do I need two copies of the game to play together?

Yes. Each player needs their own copy of Phasmophobia. On PC, you each buy it on Steam. On console, you each need a copy on your account, though you can sometimes share a console if you have separate user accounts — check your console's sharing rules first.

Can I play Phasmophobia offline with a friend?

No. The game requires an internet connection and connection to the game servers. You cannot play offline or locally without the internet, even if you are in the same room.

Is there a single-player mode in Phasmophobia?

Yes, you can play alone, but the game is designed for multiplayer and is harder solo. You still need an internet connection to play, even by yourself.

What is the maximum number of players in one match?

Four players maximum. You can play with one, two, three, or four people total in a single match, all connected online.