The Ultimate Guide to Local Multiplayer Gaming on Xbox Series S

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As a lifetime Xbox fan and passionate gamer who has been running LAN parties and competing in esports tournaments since the original 2001 console, I‘ve helped countless friends and readers set up flawless multiplayer. So let me share my deep expertise on how to play local co-op and competitive games on the Xbox Series S with two controllers.

The Xbox Series S supports connecting up to 8 controllers simultaneously – 4 wirelessly via Xbox Wireless and 4 more wired over USB. With full backward compatibility, this gives access to over 4 generations of splitscreen and same-screen multiplayer gaming.

Follow these steps to enable two player local multiplayer:

Connecting Two Controllers

Firstly test and check your controllers before jumping into games:

  • Fully charge any wireless controllers to avoid mid-game battery dies
  • Plug in controllers with a USB cable to both power them and provide a reliable wired connection
  • Update controller firmware manually via Settings or let the Xbox handle updates automatically

To connect controllers:

  • Turn on your Xbox Series S
  • Press the Xbox button on any wireless controller to automatically pair it
  • Wired controllers just need plugging into any USB-A port

I recommend using the front USB-A port on the Series S rather than the rear – this avoids cable snaking and potential disconnections if knocked.

New Xbox Wireless Controllers with the Share button are supported, as are all previous Xbox One gamepads. Third party wired controllers from PowerA and others also work perfectly.

Optimizing Your Local Multiplayer Setup

A key component of smooth local multiplayer gaming is environment setup…

For avoiding connectivity issues, don‘t place your Series S inside an enclosed cabinet or cramped TV stand. Keep it out in the open to maintain reliable wireless controller links.

Additionally, position your gaming screen centrally between players rather than off to one side – this enables both to clearly see any splitscreen action. And the larger your display, the better! A 40"+ TV or monitor lets 2 players get their own decent sized view of the gameplay.

If running into any controller linking or button input problems, try manually re-syncing by holding the small Pair button on each gamepad until the Xbox button flashes.

Top Backward Compatible Local Multiplayer Games

The Xbox Series S delivers 60fps performance, faster load times and Quick Resume convenience even for older backward compatible games. This means titles from the Xbox One, Xbox 360 and original Xbox generation play better than ever before.

Here are some of the most popular last-gen games that support local 2 player co-op campaigns and 4 player competitive multiplayer:

  • Halo: The Master Chief Collection (Xbox One)
  • Gears of War 4 & 5 (Xbox One)
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops (Xbox 360)
  • Left 4 Dead 2 (Xbox 360)
  • Portal 2 (Xbox 360)
  • FIFA 22 Legacy Edition (Xbox One)

And with Xbox Game Pass granting access to over 100 games for a monthly fee, trying new stuff in co-op couldn‘t be easier. Recent additions like It Takes Two and Unravel Two serve up exclusively 2 player adventures.

Benefits of Playing Local Multiplayer on Xbox Series S

While not quite as powerful as the flagship Xbox Series X, the budget-friendly Xbox Series S still delivers compelling benefits for local multiplayer gaming:

  • Smoother and more stable 60fps frame rates in supported titles
  • Massively reduced load times compared to Xbox One
  • Quick Resume for instantly jumping between multiplayer games
  • Spatial sound and 120fps gaming on compatible displays

Combined with accessibility features like Copilot that lets two players share one controller, the Series S makes enjoying games with others simple.

And at just £249/$299, experiencing next-gen multiplayer has never been more affordable.

Let the Fun Begin!

The Xbox Series S opens up social gaming thanks to extensive backward compatibility and up to 8 controller support. Both long term Xbox fans and those new to the platform can experience what makes local co-op and competitive multiplayer so special.

So grab some extra controllers, bunch of friends, browse my top game recommendations, and enjoy playing together the Xbox way!

What backward compatible titles do you hope get FPS Boost and other next-gen upgrades to improve local multiplayer on Series S? I‘d love to hear your picks and setup tips in the comments. Happy gaming!

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.

Similar Posts