How to Play Splitscreen Multiplayer in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 on PS5

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

Enabling splitscreen multiplayer on PS5 is easy – simply connect a second controller and have Player 2 press X on the Join prompt. This guide covers everything you need to know about unlocking couch co-op in the latest Call of Duty.

Overview of Splitscreen on COD PS5

Call of Duty has supported couch co-op multiplayer for years across Xbox and PlayStation consoles. The good news is that capability continues with Modern Warfare 2 on PS5.

By connecting a second DualSense controller, two players on the same PS5 can squad up online in competitive multiplayer or special co-op modes.

Here are some key facts about PS5 splitscreen:

  • Supports 2-player horizontal or vertical splitscreen
  • Available for online and offline multiplayer
  • Also works in Private Match with bots
  • Certain game modes disable splitscreen

This makes PS5 the ideal console for intense splitscreen action in the latest COD title.

Step-by-Step Guide to Enabling PS5 Splitscreen

Follow these instructions to start playing couch co-op on your PS5:

1. Connect Second Controller

Turn on a second DualSense controller by pressing the PS button and connect via USB or Bluetooth in Settings > Accessories. The light bar will glow solid white when powered on and paired.

PS5 Controller

Figure 1 – An additional DualSense controller is required for splitscreen

2. Join from Main Menu Prompt

Boot up Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 on your PS5 as normal. When you reach the main menu, a prompt will appear in the top right corner asking "Press X to join".

Have Player 2 press the X button on their connected controller to join the lobby. Both controllers will rumble upon successfully joining.

3. Pick Multiplayer Mode

As the host, navigate to the Multiplayer menu and select a game mode you wish to play. Popular options like Team Deathmatch, Kill Confirmed, and Domination all support splitscreen.

With Player 2 joined in, they will automatically accompany you into any game mode lobby.

4. Start Playing Splitscreen!

Once Player 2 is joined and you have chosen a splitscreen-compatible multiplayer mode, the last step is starting matchmaking to search for an online match.

You‘ll now both play in the same online game, with the screen split horizontally or vertically depending on your Settings.

COD Splitscreen

Figure 2 – Modern Warfare 2 PS5 running 2-player splitscreen co-op

And that‘s all there is to it! Within a few minutes you can experience Call of Duty multiplayer mayhem in couch co-op on your PS5.

Multiplayer Modes that Support PS5 Splitscreen

While the majority of Standard Multiplayer modes allow splitscreen, some do restrict it.

Here are the known game modes that support and don‘t support splitscreen in Modern Warfare 2:

Supports Splitscreen

  • Team Deathmatch
  • Domination
  • Hardpoint
  • Kill Confirmed
  • Grind
  • Search & Destroy
  • Infected
  • Prisoner Rescue

Doesn‘t Support Splitscreen

  • Ground War
  • Free-For-All
  • Third Person Mosh Pit
  • Invasion

So game modes with large player counts like Ground War understandably disable splitscreen. But otherwise you have plenty of options for squad competition!

Private Matches against bots also fully supports splitscreen if you wish to practice offline.

Optimizing the PS5 Splitscreen Experience

Playing splitscreen COD on a TV or monitor comes with some considerations for the optimal experience:

Adjust Screen Boundary

Determine if a vertical or horizontal split fits your display better, and tweak the alignment in Settings > General > Splitscreen Bounds.

Use Headphones

With both players‘ audio coming through the TV, headphones avoid sound interference. Plus you gain tactical listening and clearer communication.

Sit Further Apart

Sit a reasonable distance apart on the couch to allow some personal screen space for each player.

Communication

Constant communication with your teammate is key! Call out enemy locations, request support, coordinate strategy. Couch co-op demands next-level teamwork.

With the right setup, PS5 splitscreen multiplayer allows epic COD battles that just aren‘t possible in solo play.

PS5 vs Other Platforms for Modern Warfare 2 Splitscreen

Splitscreen support varies across platforms with Modern Warfare 2:

  • PS5 / PS4 – Fully supported in offline and online multiplayer
  • Xbox Series X|S – Fully supported like PlayStation
  • Xbox One / Xbox 360 – Only supports offline play
  • PC – No splitscreen support

So PlayStation and latest Xbox consoles allow unrestricted online couch co-op with crossplay. But last-gen Xbox gamers can only play offline locally.

The Bottom Line

Playing Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 in splitscreen takes couch gaming to the next level. PS5 makes pairing up with a buddy easy thanks to the seamless second controller integration.

Now that you know the process, gather a partner, strap in, and enjoy hours of tactical two-player action!

Whether you just want to hang out and cause some carnage in Team DM, or cooperate closely for objective modes, splitscreen is built for good times.

Let us know your favorite splitscreen moments and tips in the comments!

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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