Fortnite’s split screen multiplayer mode allows two players to play together on the same screen using separate controllers. This local co-op feature is great for playing with friends or family members in the same room.
Table of Contents
Supported Platforms
Split screen is currently only available on PlayStation and Xbox consoles:
- PlayStation 4
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox One
- Xbox Series X/S
It is not supported on Nintendo Switch, PC, or mobile devices at this time.
Supported Game Modes
You can use split screen for:
- Duos
- Squads
Other modes like Solos, Creative, Save the World, limited time modes are not supported.
How to Activate Split Screen
Activating split screen multiplayer in Fortnite is easy:
- Start Fortnite and go to the main menu
- Make sure 2 controllers are connected and turned on
- Hold X (PS4/PS5) or A (Xbox) to sign in the 2nd player
- Second player signs into their Fortnite account
- Join a Duos or Squads match to activate split screen
Once the match starts, the screen will automatically split between the two players.
Tips
- Both players need separate Fortnite accounts
- The session ends if one player disconnects
- Inventories are not shared
- Use headphones for easier communication
Limitations
There are some limitations to be aware of when using split screen:
- Smaller viewable screen area per player
- Possible performance impact leading to lower frame rate
- Only two players per screen, more requires additional consoles
- Can’t access lobby/menus together, only matches
- Players need matching language settings
Troubleshooting
Here are some tips if you are having issues getting split screen Fortnite working:
- Update your game and console to latest versions
- Make sure both controllers are fully charged and connected
- Try restarting the game
- Reboot your console
- Check console display settings for split screen
- Clear your console cache
The Benefits of Split Screen
Despite the limitations, playing Fortnite split screen has some great benefits:
- Play together in-person with a friend
- Easier to communicate when sitting next to each other
- Share reactions and excitement in real-time
- Introduce non-gamers to Fortnite
- Relive nostalgic same-screen multiplayer
- Take turns and swap controllers freely
Split screen multiplayer opens up Fortnite to be more social and enjoyable when played locally with friends and family. Although screen size is reduced, the shared experience can lead to extra fun and laughs.
The Future of Split Screen
Epic Games has not announced plans to bring split screen capabilities to other platforms like Nintendo Switch or PC. For now, it remains exclusive to PlayStation and Xbox consoles.
However, the feature has proven popular on consoles so expanding support is not out of the question down the road. There is strong interest from players to have same-screen co-op on all platforms that Fortnite is available.
As new generations of more powerful hardware release, reducing technical limitations, split screen may become more widely adopted. But only time will tell if Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile join PlayStation and Xbox with official split screen support in Fortnite.
Conclusion
Fortnite’s split screen multiplayer mode lets two players enjoy Duos or Squads matches together on one screen. This local co-op feature may have some limitations but provides a fun and social way to play.
Activating split screen is easy enough on supported consoles. Just connect two controllers, sign in separate accounts, and join a Duos or Squads match. Despite smaller views, players will enjoy sharing reactions and gaming side-by-side.
Hopefully Epic Games considers expanding split screen support to more platforms in the future. For now, PlayStation and Xbox owners can activate same-screen co-op by following the steps outlined above. Two-player split screen opens up Fortnite for even more good times with friends and family together in-person.