Split-screen gaming, written off for years as an old-school throwback, is properly back on PS5. After ages of online-only matches ruling the scene, heaps of players are getting back into the buzz of couch co-op and friendly local battles. By 2026, split-screen isn’t just a cheeky nod to the past — it’s front and centre in big-name releases and cracking indie hits. 

 The PS5’s power allows developers to deliver split-screen modes without compromising graphics or performance, making local multiplayer smooth and enjoyable again. Several factors are driving this comeback: 


 |  Social gaming revival  |  More players are getting around in-person gaming sessions with mates and family, especially for weekend hangouts and holiday catch-ups. 
 |  Rising console ownership in households  |  DualSense controllers and PS5 consoles have become common entertainment hubs in Australian living rooms. 
 |  Cost-effective fun  |  Split-screen eliminates the need for multiple consoles, subscriptions, or separate copies of games. 
 |  Party gaming trend  |  Local tournaments, house parties, and casual co-op sessions are surging in popularity. 

 Unlike the PS4 days when split-screen felt like a tacked-on extra, PS5 devs are properly backing local modes with smoother performance, cleaner layouts, and some slick new features 

 There’s a solid mix of PS5 games these days rocking smooth split-screen modes, from full-on sports battles to story-driven co-op adventures. 


 |  Game  |  Type  |  Why It’s Popular 
 |  It Takes Two  |  Co-op Adventure  |  Multi-award winning, story-driven, designed for two players 
 |  FIFA 26  |  Sports  |  Local competitive modes, ideal for couch tournaments 
 |  Mortal Kombat 1  |  Fighting  |  Classic arcade-style battles, perfect for split-screen duels 
 |  Moving Out 2  |  Party Co-op  |  Chaotic, fun group experience for up to 4 players locally 
 |  Call of Duty: MW3  |  Shooter  |  Split-screen multiplayer, great for casual shooter fans 
 |  Diablo IV  |  Action RPG  |  Seamless local co-op, accessible for beginners and veterans 

 These titles show how split-screen gaming caters to multiple genres, offering something for competitive players and casual gamers alike. 

 With social gaming regaining momentum, players are expanding their downtime activities to other interactive formats. Platforms like payid pokies casino online Australia offer similar fast-paced entertainment, providing light-hearted gaming sessions suitable for groups or solo players during relaxed evenings. 

Pay ID pokies casino includes accessible mobile games and quick-play features, ideal for a break between gaming sessions. Fans of fast action enjoy themed slots such as Sweet Bonanza, Sugar Rush, and Magic Apple, as well as table games like American Roulette, VIP Baccarat, and Blackjack. Meanwhile, best online casino Australia categories provide a variety of casual gaming options without the need for complicated setups. 

During house parties or laid-back nights, many punters switch to interactive segments like pokies or instant-win games on PayID pokies Australia, such as Aviator and Jet X. These games offer similar group dynamics and fast engagement loops typical of split-screen gaming culture. 

 Retail data from JB Hi-Fi and EB Games indicates a steady rise in sales of games with offline multiplayer features. Australian players are increasingly turning to split-screen for social gatherings, especially in regional areas where fast online connections are less reliable. 

 Local gaming cafés around Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth reckon there’s been a solid spike in group bookings for PS5 split-screen setups. FIFA comps and Mortal Kombat nights are popping up everywhere at community events, proving once again that kicking back with mates in person hits different. 

 Streaming services like PlayStation Plus Extra are jumping on board too, stacking their game catalogues with top split-screen titles and making it way easier for casual players to jump straight in. 

 Several trends suggest that split-screen gaming will continue growing through 2027: 

 As developers invest in refining local multiplayer features, split-screen is reclaiming its place at the heart of Australian gaming. Whether it’s competitive FIFA nights, chaotic Moving Out sessions, or casual Diablo IV runs, split-screen gaming on PS5 is here to stay—bringing players together in a way online gaming rarely matches.