Can You Play Two-Player Games on PS3? Split-Screen, Co-op & Online Options

Multiplayer on PlayStation 3: What's Possible

The PS3 itself is a single-console, single-screen device—you can't have two players on one controller. However, several multiplayer modes exist:

1. Local Split-Screen / Shared-Screen

• Requires two controllers (DualShock 3 or Sixaxis).
• Many titles support 2-player split-screen: Call of Duty (some), Gran Turismo 5/6, LittleBigPlanet, Borderlands, MotorStorm, Resident Evil 5/6.
• TV must display both perspectives—no special TV needed.

2. Local Co-op (Same Screen)

• Games like Lego series, Rayman Legends, Castle Crashers, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World let two players share one screen cooperatively.

3. Online Multiplayer

• Most major titles (CoD, Battlefield, Uncharted 2/3, Killzone, MAG, etc.) support online play via PSN.
• Requires each player to have their own PS3, copy of the game, and PSN account (PSN is free; no PS Plus required for PS3 online).

4. Ad-Hoc / LAN Party

• Some games (Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, Peace Walker, Wipeout) support local wireless between PSP/PS3 or PS3-to-PS3 via Ethernet switch.

Key Takeaway

You can play two-player on PS3—just not with a single controller. Grab a second DualShock 3, pick a split-screen or co-op game, and enjoy.