In the 90s and early 2000s, the split-screen mode was an integrated part of almost every game. Online multiplayer wasn’t as popular back then since broadband internet connection was more of a luxury. That’s why people born before the 2000s had to visit themselves to actually play together. Playing local multiplayer games has a lot of charm and lets you know each other better. You know it’s incomparable to online multiplayer if you've tried it once. 

Playing with your friends, family, or a better half on the same couch has a lot of enthusiasts even today. We’ve managed to pick up the best split-screen games to play for years to come. Some of them allow up to four players! So gather your friends, prepare some snacks, and have fun together with RoyalCDKeys!

Rocket League

• Release Date: 5 July 2015
• Developer: Psyonix
• Metascore: 86

We’re starting with a title known by almost everyone. Rocket League has a lot of game modes to choose from, including a split-screen option with up to 4 players. It features football and cars in an enclosed stadium with low gravity. 

Your main objective is to hit the ball in your opponent’s goal post. Whoever scores the most goals within 5 minutes wins. Combine this with vehicular acrobatics, customizable cars, and an easy-to-learn approach for hours of joy together.

There’s hardly anyone who won’t enjoy Rocket League. Even if you’re already experienced the game's competitive side, there’s nothing better than playing a friendly match alongside or against your best buddies. Since the game is entirely free-to-play, you can download it from Rocket League’s official website.

Key Features

• One of the most popular free-to-play games to date.
• Great split-screen game with up to 4 players.
• Customizable cars.
• Easy to learn, hard to master.

It Takes Two

• Release Date: 26 March 2021
• Developer: Hazelight Studios
• Metascore: 89

The title itself suggests how this game is meant to be played. It’s built around playing in co-op mode, which is why it’s one of the best titles for couch multiplayer. Additionally, it’s available on both PC and console, so you don’t have to worry about owning an expensive gaming rig. 

The game features two playable characters – Cody and May. They are a human couple who got transformed into dolls by a magic spell. It Takes Two revolves around solving puzzles and fighting enemies together. 

They both feature a bunch of unique and interconnected abilities, which further enhances the co-op aspect of the game. The split-screen gameplay works flawlessly, and due to the theme of the game, it’s a perfect title for couples.

It Takes Two Origin Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.

Key Features

• An excellent co-op game with flawless split-screen support.
• Solve puzzles and fight enemies together using interconnected abilities.
• A tale about love and friendship, perfect for couples.

Castle Crashers

• Release Date: 26 September 2012
• Developer: The Behemoth
• Metascore: N/A

A classic, cartoonish tale about a brave knight in shining armor trying to save a princess. Although the story is not the most complex, the gameplay aspect makes up for it. You can either play solo or in co-op. Your journey will take you through villages, castles, forests, magical places, etc. 

The game is also full of RPG elements, offers a detailed character progression, and many weapons to choose from. Team up with up to three friends on your couch and choose from 25 playable characters. Every character is unique and offers a special combo system to fire off powerful attacks against your enemies. 

There’s also a separate game mode where you can fight against each other in a closed arena! It’s worth mentioning that the colorful cartoon-style makes it a fantastic game suited for people of every age.

Castle Crashers Steam Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.

Key Features

• Many characters and weapons to choose from.
• Co-op up to 4 players.
• Sense of progression.
• PvP arena to fight against your friends.

Portal 2

• Release Date: 18 April 2011
• Developer: Valve Software
• Metascore: 95

The second release of the highly-acclaimed Portal series gathered millions of fans worldwide. Although famous for its single-player campaign, Portal 2 also features a multiplayer mode that can be played online and offline. Like the first game, you’re going to solve complex puzzles and go through different dimensions using your special Portal device.

The multiplayer offers a 2-player campaign which is impossible to complete playing solo. You can both complete it via online multiplayer, but split-screen play is better if you ask us. However, the overall difficulty is significantly more challenging than the single-player mode. 

The only downside is the length of the campaign, as it can be completed in roughly four hours. Apart from that, it’s a delightful game if you both want to put some work into your brain cells. 

Key Features

• One of the best puzzle-solving games to date.
• Unique gameplay mechanics.
• A separate campaign made only for multiplayer.

Trine: Ultimate Collection

• Release Date: 8 October 2019
• Developer: Frozenbyte, Inc.
• Metascore: N/A

Trine is one of the most renowned puzzle platformers where up to three players can play together. You will take control of three characters: Zoria the Thief, Amadeus the Wizard, and Pontius the Knight. It’s one of the best platforming co-op games to choose from, although it can be played solo. To get the most fun out of it, it’s best to play with two friends, each of you controlling a different character. 

Together, you’re going to brave the threats of a troubled kingdom. It’s a great couch co-op where all of you play on a shared screen. The cooperative gameplay involves shared sets of abilities that will be useful when solving puzzles. 

For example, the Wizard can manipulate objects from afar, while the Thief can use a grappling hook to move them further. Meanwhile, the Knight will deal with enemies. Work together, and you’ll be able to overcome any obstacle the game throws at you. 

Trine: Ultimate Collection Steam Key is available on RoyalCDKeys and includes all four titles from the Trine series in one package.

Key Features

• Four installments of the series in one package.
• Unique characters with different abilities.
• Three-player co-op.
• Character progression.

Cuphead

• Release Date: 29 September 2017
• Developer: Studio MDHR
• Metascore: 88

If you were born in the 90s and remembered playing Metal Slug in arcades, this one should feel familiar. Cuphead is a 2D side-scroll platformer inspired by the cartoons created at the beginning of the 20th century. I can hardly name any game using this art style, making it unique. 

The story follows two characters with cups instead of heads. Due to losing a game with the devil, these two lads are on his service to erase the debt. The game features fast-paced combat and will put your platforming skills to the ultimate test. Cuphead isn't a walk in the park compared to previous games on this list. 

Most levels are filled with enemies, and bosses are tough to deal with, not to mention traps and obstacles along the way to end your journey prematurely. At least when playing together, there’s a small window of time to grab your fallen companion and bring him back to life. Additionally, the entire story has two different endings. 

Cuphead Steam Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.

Key Features

• A unique aesthetic of old cartoons, except in full color.
• One of the hardest games on this list, a tribute to old run & gun titles.
• Two-player co-op on a shared screen, either local or online.
• Two endings.

Aqua Moto Racing Utopia

• Release Date: 29 November 2016
• Developer: Zordix
• Metascore: N/A

Jet Ski Racing is not the most sought-after theme in the video game industry. This one’s unique, though, as it supports up to four-player split-screen racing. It perfectly mixes extreme speeds, stunts, and water simulation. You’ll operate your Jet Ski from a third-person perspective eliminating your friends. The first one to cross the finish line wins. 

There are fifty exotic tracks located in ten different locations around the world. Each track offers a diverse environment and is challenging in its own way. Not to mention various Jet Skies, Career Mode, etc. It’s one of the best games revolving around Jet Ski racing; there’s no doubt.

Key Features

• Probably the best game featuring Jet Ski racing.
• Supports up to four-player split-screen gameplay.
• 50 tracks to choose from.
• Various game modes such as Career mode.
• Online and local multiplayer.

LEGO Batman 2

• Release Date: 19 June 2012
• Developer: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
• Metascore: 81

If you’re tired of fast-paced action and challenging gameplay, LEGO games are coming to the rescue. Compared to other games on this list, LEGO Batman 2 is an effortless experience made solely to have fun with your kids or recreational players. 

The game lets you control Batman and Robin alongside other superhero friends from the DC universe. The multiplayer experience is top-notch, offering a dynamic split-screen if your partner goes too far from you. The satirical and humorous approach to presented events also adds to the light atmosphere of the game.

Roaming around Gotham and serving justice has never been more fun. The family-friendly experience ensures straightforward gameplay suitable for people of every age. One of the best games for parent/child gaming sessions.

LEGO Batman 2 - DC Super Heroes Steam Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.

Key Features

• Easy to learn and fun experience.
• DC licensed characters.
• Dynamic split-screen multiplayer.
• Suitable for people of every age.
• Absurd humor.

Children Of Morta

• Release Date: 3 September 2019
• Developer: Dead Mage
• Metascore: 82

Switching again to more demanding titles in terms of gameplay, Children Of Morta is a mix of roguelike and hack’n’slash games. You play as a member of the Bergson family, in which everyone’s a hero and adventurer. Hunting and exploring dungeons have become their family business. 

There are six playable characters, and you decide who’s the best suited for the challenge. In co-op mode, you will clear dungeons together, each controlling a different family member. Each represents a separate character class. 

For example, Father is an archetypical sword and board fighter, while his daughter is a skilled pyromancer. Everyone plays differently and has a unique set of skills. As you progress, you’ll be able to upgrade their abilities individually or as a whole.

Children Of Morta Steam Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.

Key Features

• Procedurally generated levels.
• Hack’n’slash, action-adventure experience.
• Two-player co-op.
• Pixel-art graphics.

Sonic and All-Stars Racing Transformed

• Release Date: 18 November 2012
• Developer: Sumo Digital
• Metascore: 82

Thanks to the recent movie, the Sonic franchise is on the hype train. You could say this game looks like Mario Kart but with a different skin. While it’s true to some extent, it offers some unique mechanics that separate it from the aforementioned title. You’ll be racing across land, water, and air switching between different vehicles mid-race. 

The game features the most popular characters from the Sonic franchise – Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Eggman, etc. And most importantly, it supports split-screen mode with up to 4 players. If you like a more cartoony-style racing games, this will suit your taste.

Sonic and All-Stars Racing Transformed Steam Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.

Key Features

• A racing game in the Sonic universe.
• Ability to change vehicles mid-race.
• Four-player split-screen co-op.
• A huge roster of playable characters.

Overcooked! 2

• Release Date: 7 August 2018
• Developer: Ghost Town Games Ltd.
• Metascore: 81

“Too many cooks spoil the broth.” It’s one of those games where you’ll be yelling at your friends instead of having a good time. The gameplay is simple: there are four cooks, a recipe, ingredients to prepare, and a lot of kitchen utensils. This is where the fun begins. All of these have to be done in order; the kitchen’s layout changes regularly, and plates must be cleaned. 

Every delay means fewer deliveries, resulting in less score at the end of each round. Almost always someone will try to establish orders without cooperation. It’s pretty challenging but also immensely fun. It features local multiplayer with up to four players and an online mode.

Overcooked! 2 Steam Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.

Key Features

• Simulation of working in a kitchen.
• Cute characters.
• Four players locally or online.
• Two players can play on one controller.

Resident Evil 6

• Release Date: 22 March 2013
• Developer: Capcom, QLOC
• Metascore: 69

Here’s a great co-op game for mature players. Resident Evil 6 is a third-person shooter mixed with survival horror mechanics that can be played on split-screen. It includes four different campaigns, while three of them can be played in co-op mode. 

Due to the game’s gentle difficulty curve, it's suitable for first-time players wanting to join you in battling neverending hordes of zombies. There’s much more fun to be had fighting the bad guys in Resident Evil 6 with a friend than solo. If the Resident Evil series in general suits your taste, you should also check its predecessor, as it plays in a very similar fashion. 

Resident Evil 6 Complete Steam Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys. 

Key Features

• A renowned franchise with over 20 releases.
• Three out of four campaigns can be played in co-op mode.
• Gentle difficulty curve.
• A mix of survival horror and third-person shooter.

Gears 5

• Release Date: 10 September 2019
• Developer: The Coalition
• Metascore: 82

Gears of War is an immensely expanded franchise that includes games, comics, visual novels, and action figures. Gears 5 takes place after the events presented in Gears Of War 4. It also features a new protagonist named Kait Diaz. He’s not alone, obviously, and has his group of friends – COG soldiers – like himself. 

The newest installment follows the series tradition of split-screen cooperative experience in multiple modes. You can finish the campaign together or delve into Horde mode, fighting increasing waves of enemies. As usual, you’ll be deploying defenses, sticking to high walls, and shooting a ray of bullets toward your enemies. A classic Gears Of War experience.

Gears 5 Steam Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.

Key Features

• One of the best third-person shooter series to date.
• Split-screen mode to play locally.
• Various game modes.
• Co-op campaign.

Dragon Ball FighterZ

• Release Date: 26 January 2018
• Developer: Arc System Works
• Metascore: 85

This list wouldn’t be complete without a side-scroll fighting game. Instead of recommending bloody and gory Mortal Kombat, we’ve decided to pick a game suited for a wider audience. Based on the most popular anime ever, Dragon Ball FighterZ was met with a warm welcome from fans. Apart from that, the reviews among critics were mostly positive.

You can pick from a huge roster of familiar characters, including those from the New Dragon Ball Super series. It features flashy combos and superb graphics and is one of the best fighting games released in recent years. Even if you’re not a Dragon Ball fan, the gameplay alone will get you hooked for hours. Especially when fighting against your buddy on the same couch.

Dragon Ball FighterZ Steam Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.

Key Features

• One of the best fighting games released in recent years.
• A roster of many characters, including those from Dragon Ball Super.
• Many multiplayer features, including co-op on the same screen.
• Lengthy campaign mode.

Divinity: Original Sin 2

• Release Date: 14 September 2017
• Developer: Larian Studios Games
• Metascore: 93

Divinity: Original Sin 2 is a must-play for every classic RPG fan. Playing it alone is ridiculously entertaining, but if you manage to bring a friend on your journey, the gameplay rises to a whole new level. 

Like its predecessor, Divinity: Original Sin 2 allows you to play the entire story with up to four players. Two players can play in local co-op on the same screen and have two more (also playing in split-screen) join online.

You can also create entirely new stories in DM Mode for infinite replayability potential. Create a custom-made adventure, string together locations, pick music, add texts, etc. It’s like a tabletop RPG session, only in digital format.

Divinity: Original Sin 2 GOG Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.

Key Features

• Two players can play locally, while two more can join online.
• Many pre-made characters to choose from.
• Full mod support, including Steam Workshop.
• Ability to create your own RPG sessions with an advanced editor.