How to play Fortnite split screen

Ava Thompson-Powell
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If you’re wondering if you can play Fortnite in split-screen mode, then here’s everything you need to know about playing the game locally with another person.

Fortnite quickly became one of the world’s most popular live-service games, ever since Epic Games released its classic Battle Royale mode. Since its initial viral success, the playerbase has remained strong thanks to its addictive fast-paced gameplay, constant updates, major collaborations and much more.

Since Fortnite began, players had called out for a split-screen mode to be introduced. In Chapter 2, the calls were answered and it was finally added. This has given players the ability to squad up with their friends locally and play together using just one Console.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to use the split screen feature in Fortnite.

Contents


Can you play split screen in Fortnite?

Yes, you can play split screen mode in Fortnite if you are playing on an Xbox or PlayStation console.

Split screen is fully working for PlayStation and Xbox consoles, but there is no split screen capability for Nintendo Switch or PC.

Despite, Epic Games disabling the feature temporarily for a number of days back in November 16, 2023, it was re-activated on November 21 and has been available to all players ever since.

This is not the first time it has been temporarily disabled. All the bay back in Chapter 3 Season 1 as part of the v19.01 update, the ability to play in split-screen mode was disabled for a while, but eventually was re-enabled by Epic Games. Ever since, it has been business as usual, so the long wait is certainly unexpected.

How to play split screen in Fortnite

Follow these steps to enable the feature within your game:

  1. Head to the game’s main lobby on the main player’s account.
  2. Turn on the second controller, and log into the second player’s account when prompted.
  3. On the bottom of your screen, you’ll see the option to press your console’s corresponding Triangle (PlayStation) or Y (Xbox) button to log in Player Two to the game.
  4. Following this, both players should now appear within the lobby area of the game.
  5. That’s it – enjoy split screen Fortnite!

It’s worth noting that the game session will end if one player is disconnected, even if the other player remains in play. Players’ inventories will remain separate – meaning that you still have to collect your own items to craft and upgrade items.

When is split screen coming to Switch and PC?

Currently, split screen is only available on the PlayStation and Xbox consoles.

PC, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices do not support this functionality, and Epic has not indicated that it will be enabled on those platforms anytime soon. We’ll update you right here if that changes.

An image showing the Split Screen feature in Fortnite for Duos and SquadsOnly Duos and Squads can be played in split screen.

Which modes can be played with split screen?

As of now, split screen can only be used in Duos and Squads modes within the Battle Royale, when two players are connected to the same console.

This also applies to Creative, Limited Time Modes (LTMs), and Save the World. However, cross-play between console platforms does allow for shared screens.

Split screen tips

While it can be enjoyable to play split screen with a friend, there are obvious drawbacks as a result of this. One of the most blatant disadvantages is that it cuts your screen size in half. This will undoubtedly have an impact on your in-game awareness.

This is why it’s of the utmost importance to prioritize teamwork and communication when playing split screen. Constantly relaying information to your split screen partner, and them doing the same, will make a huge difference in gunfights.

In addition, make sure you’re comfortable with the screen orientation when doing split screen in Fortnite. By default, your feeds will show horizontally, though this can be changed to vertically if that’s what you prefer. Testing out the different orientations can help you decide which works best for you and what looks best on your screen.

It’s also worth pointing out that playing Fortnite in split screen mode can sometimes lead to temporary glitches like a player’s inventory taking up the whole screen or interfering with the other player’s camera angle. In our experience, this is more common on the previous generation of consoles, such as the PS4.

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About The Author

Ava was formerly Dexerto's Evergreen Editor, based in England. With a BA (Hons) in Media and Communications, and a passion for RPGs, The Sims, Pokemon, and Dead by Daylight, she primarily covered tips, guides, and reviews.