How to Play Multiplayer on PS3 (Local & Online)

1. Local Multiplayer (Same Console)

Split-Screen / Shared Screen

• Controller Limit: 7 controllers max (Bluetooth), but games typically support **2–4**.
• Setup: Turn on controllers (PS button) → Assign profiles (or "Play as Guest") → Launch game → Select **Multiplayer / Split-Screen / Versus / Co-op** from main menu.
• Key Titles: Call of Duty (2–4 player), Borderlands 2, LittleBigPlanet, Gran Turismo 5/6, Minecraft, Resident Evil 5/6, Tekken 6/Tag 2, Street Fighter IV.

System Link (LAN)

• Connect 2–16 PS3s via **Ethernet switch/router** (no internet needed).
• Game must support System Link (Halo is Xbox; PS3: Resistance 1/2, Killzone 2/3, MotorStorm, Warhawk, GT5 Prologue).
• Host creates match → Others join via LAN tab.

2. Online Multiplayer (PlayStation Network)

Requirements

• **PSN Account** per player (free). Create on console or web.
• **Internet:** Wired (Ethernet) strongly recommended. Wi-Fi works but higher latency/packet loss.
• **PlayStation Plus:** Required for **most** online multiplayer (since June 2013). Exceptions: Free-to-Play titles (Fortnite, Apex, Warframe, Destiny 2) do **not** require Plus.
• **Game Server Status:** Many PS3 game servers are **shut down** (MGO2, Killzone 2/3, Resistance 1/2/3, MAG, SOCOM, GT5/6, LBP1/2). Check PSN Status or community wikis.

Setup

1. Sign in to PSN (Profile → Sign In).
2. Start game → Select **Online / Multiplayer / Network**.
3. Invite Friends (△ on Friend → Invite to Game) or Quick Match / Server Browser.
4. **Voice Chat:** Bluetooth headset or USB headset. Settings → Accessory Settings → Audio Device Settings → Input/Output Device → Test.

3. PlayStation Plus Benefits (Current)

• Online multiplayer (non-F2P).
• Monthly "Essential" games (2–3 PS3/PS4/PS5 titles — claim monthly, keep while subbed).
• Cloud Saves (100 GB) — auto-upload / manual.
• Exclusive discounts (10–75% off).
• Share Play (stream your screen to friend; they can take control).

Backward Compatibility Note

PS3 discs **do not work** on PS4/PS5. PS Now (cloud streaming) merged into **PlayStation Plus Premium** — includes ~300 PS3 titles streamable (720p/60fps, input lag varies). No local PS3 emulation on PS4/5.