5 Best Split-Screen Multiplayer Games for Your Friends to Play Together

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If you grew up playing video games with your siblings, you probably remember split-screen multiplayer – it used to be how everyone played together in the same room. These days, fewer games offer that option, as developers focus more on online play. Still, some games continue to include local co-op, letting friends enjoy shared adventures side-by-side and creating really memorable experiences.

As a gamer, I always loved playing with friends on the same screen! Whether it’s called ‘split-screen’ or ‘shared-screen,’ it’s just awesome to have everyone together on one system. I remember epic battles in beat-em-ups using shared-screen, and first-person shooters felt even more immersive with split-screen letting everyone see things from their own angle. Honestly, there’s something really special and nostalgic about playing games locally like that.

5. Split Fiction

It’s no surprise that Split Fiction is ideal for split-screen gameplay – the name itself hints at it! This new game comes from Hazelight Studios, the creators of other fantastic co-op titles like A Way Out and the Game of the Year winner, It Takes Two. All of these games are built for two players, giving each person unique tasks and ways to tackle levels, encouraging close teamwork throughout the experience. Split Fiction takes this collaborative spirit even further, offering a wide range of gameplay mechanics designed to keep players engaged.

In Split Fiction, two writers find themselves stuck inside a simulation built from their own stories. The catch? They write in completely different genres – one focuses on fantasy and magic, while the other is all about sci-fi and cyberpunk. Players control both writers and must navigate these worlds together, switching between split-screen and shared-screen gameplay as they progress through story chapters. Each chapter introduces fresh challenges and requires teamwork, encouraging players to understand and appreciate each other’s creative styles.

4. Marvel Cosmic Invasion

Old-school beat-em-ups are perfect for playing with friends, and Marvel Cosmic Invasion is one of the best available. The game lets you control a huge roster of Marvel heroes – from popular characters like Wolverine and Spider-Man to lesser-known ones like Beta Ray Bill and Quasar. You’ll battle waves of enemies led by Annihilus in fast-paced, non-stop action, and up to four players can join in on the fun locally.

Playing as a team of heroes in Marvel Cosmic Invasion is a lot of fun, but what really makes the game special is its cooperative gameplay. The “Cosmic Swap” system lets each player control two characters, allowing for dynamic tag-team action with friends. Combining unique character abilities and creating powerful combos leads to exciting moments, letting you and your teammates experience the thrill of being superheroes overcoming impossible odds.

3. The Escapists 2

The core idea behind The Escapists 2 is perfect for playing with friends – you and up to three others work together to plan and execute a prison break. The game blends following prison rules with sneaky crafting, exploring, and ultimately, escaping. Because there are so many ways to break out, every playthrough feels unique and creates fun, memorable experiences when played with others.

This game takes the multiplayer experience to the next level with several new features, including limited player-versus-player combat. You can challenge your friends in The Escapists 2 to see who can escape prison the quickest, turning it into a race against the clock. Or, use the Prison Map Editor to design your own prison and then let your friends test their skills by trying to find a way out. Plus, with extensive character customization options, you can personalize your escape stories and create unique experiences with your group.

2. Overcooked 2

If you’re looking for a chaotic but fun couch co-op game, look no further than Overcooked 2 and the original Overcooked. These games are notorious for testing friendships! Overcooked 2 remains a must-play shared-screen experience, requiring precise teamwork to serve a constant stream of customers. The game’s charm comes from its frantic, crowded kitchens, where you and your friends must collaborate to cook meals. Success depends on clear communication and assigning roles – even if things quickly descend into delightful chaos.

As you get further in the game, the kitchens become increasingly challenging – sometimes they even move! The stress in Overcooked 2 is intense, but that’s what makes it so rewarding when you and your teammates finally work together like a perfectly coordinated cooking team.

1. Screencheat

Some of the most fun split-screen games are those with intense competition, like the classic local multiplayer in games such as Halo or one-on-one matches in Call of Duty with friends. Screencheat perfectly recreates that feeling of playing FPS games locally, and even gets its name from the playful act of glancing at another player’s screen to see their location during a split-screen match. While ‘screencheating’ has always been a common practice, Screencheat makes it a central and defining part of the gameplay.

This game features invisible characters, meaning you’ll need to watch your friends’ screens to see where they are! Even experienced first-person shooter players will have to peek at other screens to get kills, thanks to powerful, one-hit-kill weapons. Expect quick gameplay, frustrating (but funny!) moments of screen-peeking, and a multiplayer experience you won’t easily forget.

What are your favorite split-screen games to play with friends in person? Share your recommendations in the comments or discuss them on the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-02-10 22:16