How to Play Two-Player on Xbox One

Method depends on the game's supported modes.

1. Local Split-Screen (Same Console, Two Controllers)

1. Sign in Player 1 (main profile)
2. Turn on Controller 2 → hold Xbox button → "Add Guest" or sign in Player 2 profile
3. Launch game → select Local Multiplayer / Split-Screen / Co-op
4. Game prompts "Press Start on Controller 2" → Player 2 joins

Examples: Halo MCC, Gears 5, Minecraft, Rocket League, Call of Duty (some), Borderlands 3

2. Online Multiplayer (Two Consoles, Two Accounts, Two Gold/GPU Subs)

1. Both players: Settings → Account → Subscriptions → ensure Xbox Live Gold or Game Pass Ultimate active
2. Add each other as Friends (Guide → People → Find someone)
3. Start a Party (Guide → Parties → Start a party → Invite)
4. Launch same game → Invite friend from in-game menu or Party overlay (Xbox button → Party → Invite to game)

3. System Link (LAN) – Rare

Connect two Xbox Ones via Ethernet switch/router. Supported in Halo MCC, Gears 5, Minecraft. No internet/Gold needed.

Quick Check

Before buying: Search "Game Name split screen Xbox One" or check the store page "Capabilities" → "Local multiplayer (2)".