A Complete Guide on Playing Rocket League in Split Screen Mode

Experience the thrill of Rocket League with friends in couch co-op split-screen mode. Although the game offers vibrant online multiplayer and co-op features, nothing compares to the excitement of playing side by side on the couch. Released in 2015, this beloved title continues to captivate players well into 2025.

If you’re eager to dive into split-screen gameplay, this guide will walk you through the setup process for various platforms including Xbox, PlayStation, and PC.

Setting Up Split-Screen Mode in Rocket League

Rocket League is backward compatible and can be played on older consoles as well (Image via Psyonix LLC)

Let’s explore how to enable split-screen mode across different gaming platforms:

For PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5

Turn on your PlayStation console.
Launch Rocket League using your primary controller.
On the second controller, press the PlayStation button.
Select one of the following account options:

Get Started – Create a new PlayStation account or sign into an existing one.
Sign In and Play – Log in with an existing account; note that any signed-out data will not be saved.
Quick Play – No account required; simply choose this for immediate access to Rocket League.

After signing in, return to the Rocket League Main Menu.

With the second controller, navigate to Settings.

Player 2 will appear in the party lobby, allowing Player 1 to choose the desired Playlist for gameplay.

For PC Users

Connect your controllers to the PC.
Open the Epic Games Launcher and start Rocket League.
In the Main Menu, Player 2 should press:

Options button for DualShock 4 Controller.
Menu button for Xbox One Controller.

Player 2: Select Join the party to begin.

For Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S

Connect all controllers.
Player 2 should log in with their own Xbox account.
Launch Rocket League.
Press the Menu button on the second controller.
Note: Up to four players can join in total.

Nintendo Switch Setup

For a Single Joy-Con Setup:

Start Rocket League on your Switch.
Player 2: Press the Minus Button (-) on the Joy-Con.
Log into the Nintendo account or select Skip for a temporary local profile.
Both players confirm their controllers by pressing the SL and SR buttons simultaneously.

For Separate Joy-Con or Pro Controller Setup:

Open Rocket League on your Switch.
Player 2: Press the Plus Button (+) on the Joy-Con or Pro Controller.
Player 2: Log into your Nintendo account or choose Skip.
Both players confirm their controllers by pressing the L and R buttons at the same time.

Since its release in July 2015, Rocket League has garnered immense popularity, selling over 10 million copies. Originally available for Xbox One, PS4, and PC, the game’s backward compatibility feature allows it to be played on next-generation consoles like Xbox Series X/S and PS5. Additionally, a Nintendo Switch port was introduced in November 2017, broadening its reach and appeal.

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