Split Fiction does not have split-screen multiplayer

Split Fiction is an online co-op game, which means you and another player connect over the internet to play together — but you each need your own screen and your own copy of the game. There is no split-screen option that lets two people play on one TV or monitor.

If you want to play Split Fiction with a friend, you will both need a PC or PlayStation 5, the game installed on each system, and an active internet connection. You play in the same world at the same time, but you are looking at two separate displays.

This is different from games that offer split-screen co-op, where one TV is divided between two players. Split Fiction was built as an online-only experience from the start.

Key Takeaways

  • Split Fiction requires each player to own the game and have their own device — you cannot share one copy across two screens.
  • Both players need an internet connection to play together, since the game only supports online co-op, not local co-op.
  • You will each see your own full screen, not a split view of the same TV.
  • The game is available on PC and PlayStation 5, so both players need one of those platforms.

What platforms support Split Fiction co-op

Split Fiction co-op works on PC (through Steam) and PlayStation 5. You and your co-op partner can play together if you are both on the same platform, or if one of you is on PC and the other is on PlayStation 5 — the game supports cross-platform play.

If one person has the game on PC and the other on PlayStation 5, you can still join the same session and play together. This flexibility means you have more options for finding someone to play with, even if you own different systems.

The game is not available on Xbox, Nintendo Switch, or mobile devices, so those platforms cannot join co-op sessions at all.

How online co-op works in Split Fiction

When you start a co-op session, one player creates a game and the other joins it through an invite or a friend code. You both play through the same story and puzzles at the same time, but you control your own character and see your own perspective on the screen.

The game is designed around two-player cooperation — many puzzles require both of you to work together to solve them. You might need to stand on pressure plates at the same time, pull levers in sequence, or position yourselves in specific spots to progress.

Internet lag can affect how smoothly the game runs, especially if one player has a slower connection. If the connection drops, you will be disconnected from the session and will need to rejoin.

What you need to play co-op

Each player needs their own copy of Split Fiction. The game is not free-to-play, so you cannot borrow a friend's copy and play together on separate devices — you both have to own it.

You also both need an active internet connection. Split Fiction does not work offline, and there is no way to play co-op on a local network without internet access.

A PlayStation Plus subscription (for PS5) or Steam account (for PC) is required to play online, though the specific requirements depend on which platform you are using. Check your platform's current online play requirements before you buy the game.

Why Split Fiction does not have split-screen

Split Fiction was designed as an online co-op experience from the ground up. The developers built the game around internet-based multiplayer rather than local co-op, which is why split-screen was never added.

This design choice means the game does not have to compress two views onto one screen, which allows each player to see the full game world in high quality. It also means the game does not have to run two separate game instances on one console, which can slow down performance.

If you specifically want to play a co-op puzzle game on one TV with a friend sitting next to you, Split Fiction is not the right choice — you would need to look for games that offer local split-screen co-op instead.

Alternatives if you want split-screen co-op

If you want to play a co-op puzzle or adventure game on one screen with someone in the same room, several other games offer split-screen multiplayer. Games like It Takes Two, A Way Out, and Portal 2 all have local co-op modes where two players can sit on the same couch and play together on one TV.

Some of these games also support online co-op in addition to split-screen, so you have both options. If you are deciding between Split Fiction and another co-op game, check whether the game supports the type of multiplayer you actually want — online only, split-screen only, or both.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play Split Fiction with someone on the same console using split-screen?

No. Split Fiction only supports online co-op, not local co-op. Both players need their own device and their own copy of the game, even if you are in the same room.

Do both players need to own the game?

Yes. Each player must own their own copy of Split Fiction. You cannot share one copy between two devices or two accounts.

Can I play Split Fiction co-op between PC and PlayStation 5?

Yes. The game supports cross-platform play, so one player can be on PC and the other on PlayStation 5, and you can play together in the same session.

What happens if my internet connection drops during co-op?

You will be disconnected from the session. You will need to rejoin your friend's game or have them rejoin yours to continue playing together.

Is Split Fiction free-to-play?

No. Split Fiction is a paid game that you must purchase on Steam or the PlayStation Store. There is no free version or free trial.