To play split screen on Minecraft, you need the Bedrock Edition on a console like Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo Switch, not on a PC with Java Edition. Simply connect a second controller, launch the game, and join your world as player one, then power on the second controller to add another player.
Step 1: Check your console and game compatibility
Split-screen mode is officially supported in Minecraft: Bedrock Edition on consoles, including Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4/5, and Nintendo Switch. Playing split-screen on PC for Java Edition typically requires third-party mods or tools, so ensure you are using the correct version, and if you plan to play with friends locally, you can use controller on Minecraft java for a more comfortable shared experience. For Nintendo Switch, the console must be docked and connected to a TV or monitor with a resolution greater than 1080p and HDMI compatible for split-screen.
Step 2: Connect a second controller
Each player needs their own controller to play split-screen. On Xbox, sync the second controller by pressing the Xbox button and following the on-screen instructions. On PlayStation, connect the controller via USB or Bluetooth. On Nintendo Switch, each Joy-Con can act as a controller, or Pro Controllers can be used, with at least two Joy-Cons or a Pro Controller required for each player.
Step 3: Launch Minecraft and sign in
The host player must be signed in to their Microsoft account. Launch Minecraft on your console and load the world you want to play in.
Step 4: Activate split-screen mode
- To play split-screen, launch Minecraft and join your world as player one, then power on and connect the controller for player two.
- Select the console user profile for player two and press the button as directed by the on-screen prompt to add the second player; repeat for additional players if needed.
- Minecraft: Bedrock Edition split-screen supports up to four players on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4/5, and Nintendo Switch. For Nintendo Switch, while four players are supported, two players are recommended.
Step 5: Adjust multiplayer and online settings
The "Multiplayer game" toggle can be found in the Multiplayer tab of the world settings. For local split-screen play, all players may not need an active online subscription (e.g., Nintendo Switch Online, Xbox Game Pass Core, PlayStation Plus) if the "Multiplayer game" toggle is turned off in the world settings. If playing online split-screen, all players typically need an active online subscription and may need to be signed into their own Microsoft accounts.
Step 6: Customize your split-screen layout
You can customize your split-screen experience by adjusting the screen layout, audio settings, and display size of each player's viewpoint. Experiment with different settings until you find the perfect setup for you and your fellow players.
Start your split-screen adventure
Now, gather around the screen, grab your controllers, and dive into the wonderful world of Minecraft in split-screen mode. Work together to build impressive structures, embark on epic quests, or engage in thrilling player-versus-player battles. Remember that split-screen is a console-only feature for Bedrock Edition, so you need a compatible console and a second controller to enjoy it.
