How do you play split screen grounded?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

In short – you can‘t currently play Grounded in a local, split screen co-op mode. Both Xbox and PC versions lack support for couch gameplay with friends on the same device. But don‘t let that stop you from exploring the backyard! Here are some workarounds:

Technical limitations prevent split screen support

Grounded is an online survival game built in Unreal Engine by a small team at Obsidian. Resources focused heavily on crafting an immersive single-player world before expanding to online multiplayer last year. Certain technical hurdles likely led split screen support to drop down the priority list:

  • Rendering a shared world 4+ times – Each split would lower FPS and visuals. Early Access games rarely optimize fully for split screen.
  • Syncing progression – Tracking item pickups, base changes, etc. gets complex with local players who can freely move to unseen areas.
  • No engine-level assistance – Unreal Engine 5 plans native split screen tools, but 4 lacks those capabilities.

While missing couch co-op is disappointing, we can appreciate the backyard they‘ve crafted even with limitations.

Plentiful multiplayer options online

Just because you can‘t huddle around the same TV in Grounded doesn‘t mean friends can‘t team up. Online multiplayer offers opportunities for 4 player co-op:

PlatformPlayersRequiresHighlights
XboxUp to 4
  • Xbox Live account
  • Xbox One / Series S/X
  • Host/join directly with friends
  • Or matchmake publicly
PCUp to 4
  • Steam account
  • Cross-play with Xbox
  • Text and voice chat

And the numbers speak for themselves – over 5 million players have experienced multiplayer since it launched in 2021 according to Steam and Xbox data.

Imagining ideal split screen scenarios

Sometimes when I‘m grinding solo and hear my roommate cheering over a Fortnite win, I wish we could team up to thump some bugs in Grounded too. Couch play could let families conquer the hedge lab or couples build a luxury acorn base.

Alas, gathering resources remains lone wolf territory for now. But the joy of multiplayer still motivates my personal journey through the story whenever my online friends invite me on expeditions.

What does the future hold?

Obsidian seems committed to supporting Grounded in Early Access, so perhaps split screen gets prioritized later. Or modders may find creative workarounds to simulate local multiplayer. We can hope!

Even without split screen, teaming up with others online offers rewarding experiences full of humor, challenge, and discovery. I‘d love to hear your own Grounded stories! Leave a comment below on your wildest backyard moments so far.

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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