Baldur’s Gate 3 Split Screen | How Local Co-Op Works
Baldur’s Gate 3 supports split-screen multiplayer, allowing two players to enjoy the game together on the same screen. The
Baldur’s Gate 3 supports split-screen multiplayer, allowing two players to enjoy the game together on the same screen. The feature is available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, making it one of the few modern RPGs with a full local co-op experience.
Does Baldur’s Gate 3 Have Split Screen?
Yes, Baldur’s Gate 3 includes a built-in split-screen mode for two players. Each player controls their own character and can explore the world independently. The screen automatically splits when players move apart and can merge back together when they stay close.
This system makes local co-op feel natural and helps players enjoy both exploration and story content without constantly waiting for each other.
How Split Screen Works
Split-screen begins when a second player joins the game using another controller. Once connected, the second player can create a new character or take control of an existing companion.
Both players can:
- Explore different locations
- Start conversations with NPCs
- Manage inventory
- Participate in combat
- Complete quests together
The game allows a great deal of freedom, which is one of the reasons split-screen works so well.
Split Screen on PC
PC players can use split-screen mode, but both players must use controllers. Keyboard and mouse cannot be combined with a controller for local co-op.
A reasonably powerful PC is recommended because split-screen places additional demands on hardware. Since the game renders two viewpoints at the same time, performance may drop on lower-end systems.
Split Screen on PlayStation 5
The PlayStation 5 version offers one of the smoothest split-screen experiences available. Players simply connect a second controller and join the game.
Features include:
- Full campaign support
- Character creation for both players
- Shared progression
- Local cooperative gameplay
The entire adventure can be completed in split-screen mode.
Split Screen on Xbox
Baldur’s Gate 3 supports split-screen on Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S.
Players can enjoy the same local co-op features found on other platforms, including:
- Shared story progression
- Character customization
- Turn-based combat
- Exploration and questing
The addition of split-screen support on Xbox Series S helped bring feature parity across current-generation consoles.
Combat in Split Screen
Combat remains turn-based when playing in split-screen mode. Each player takes turns according to the initiative order.
This setup works particularly well because both players can plan actions together, discuss strategies, and coordinate attacks without feeling rushed.
Popular cooperative strategies include:
- Tank and healer combinations
- Rogue and wizard pairings
- Crowd-control focused teams
- High-damage melee and ranged builds
Is Split Screen Worth Playing?
Baldur’s Gate 3 is widely considered one of the best split-screen RPG experiences available today. The game’s deep story, character choices, and tactical combat make it especially enjoyable with a friend or partner.
Unlike many co-op games that limit player freedom, Baldur’s Gate 3 allows both players to make decisions, explore independently, and influence the story.
Pros of Split Screen
Excellent Local Co-Op Experience
Few modern role-playing games offer a complete split-screen campaign. Baldur’s Gate 3 allows players to experience the entire adventure together.
Shared Story Choices
Both players can participate in major decisions and discussions with NPCs.
Deep Character Customization
Each player can build a unique character with different classes, abilities, and backgrounds.
Flexible Exploration
Players can stay together or separate to investigate different parts of the world.
Cons of Split Screen
Performance Can Be Lower
Rendering two viewpoints can reduce frame rates compared to single-player mode.
Controller Requirement on PC
Local split-screen on PC requires controllers, which may disappoint keyboard-and-mouse players.
Smaller Screen Space
Inventory management and reading text can feel slightly cramped on smaller displays.
Verdict
Baldur’s Gate 3 fully supports split-screen multiplayer and delivers one of the best local co-op RPG experiences available. Whether you’re playing on PC, PS5, or Xbox Series X|S, the feature allows two players to enjoy the entire campaign together while making choices, fighting battles, and exploring the world side by side.
