Home News Minecraft's Screen Division Formula Clarified

Minecraft's Screen Division Formula Clarified

Author : Savannah Jan 10,2026

Back in the early days when co-op gaming was just gaining ground and voice chat wasn't yet mainstream, we’d gather with friends around a TV and game from a single console. It was a blast, and you can easily recreate that experience today.

Want to play split-screen on your Xbox One or other console? Get your system ready, stock up on drinks and snacks, and invite your friends over. Here’s how you can make it happen!

Table of Contents


Key Details How to Play Split Screen in Minecraft? How to Play on One Console? Can You Split Screen Minecraft Online? Leave a Comment

Key Details

Split Screen on Minecraft
Image: ensigame.com

First, it's important to know that split-screen play in Minecraft is exclusive to consoles. PC players don't have this feature, but if you own an Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo Switch, let’s go through how to split the screen together.

Another point to keep in mind is system specs. Yes, there are a few requirements, though they shouldn't be an issue for most. To enable split screen, you'll need an HD (720p) capable TV or monitor.

Likewise, your console needs to support that resolution. When you connect via HDMI, the resolution usually sets itself automatically. For VGA connections, you may need to adjust video settings manually in your Xbox or PlayStation menu.

How to Play Split Screen in Minecraft?

Split Screen on Minecraft
Image: ensigame.com

The good news is Minecraft offers multiple ways to set up co-op, so you can pick the one that fits best. You can split the screen locally (right from your console) or join an online server to expand your group.

How to Play Minecraft from One Console?

For this, we use local split screen. You can have up to four people playing on the same console—just be sure everyone has a controller ready. The exact steps vary slightly by console, but here's a general guide to help you get started.

First, connect your console to your screen. The easiest way is with an HDMI cable (included with most modern consoles).

Split Screen on Minecraft
Image: ensigame.com

Great! Now start Minecraft and either create a new game or load an existing one. The key step here is to turn off multiplayer mode in the settings.

Split Screen on Minecraft
Image: alphr.com

Then follow the usual steps: pick your difficulty, adjust any game options, and set your world parameters. If you’re loading a saved world, just skip this part.

Split Screen on Minecraft
Image: alphr.com

Ready to go? Hit Start and wait for the game to load. Tell your friends to hang tight—you’re almost there.

Split Screen on Minecraft
Image: alphr.com

Once your game is running, other players can join. The exact button varies, but on PlayStation it’s often the "Options" button, pressed twice. Xbox players usually press the Start button.

Split Screen on Minecraft
Image: alphr.com

After signing into their profile, they’ll join the session. Once they’re in, the display splits automatically (2 to 4 players).

Split Screen on Minecraft
Image: pt.wikihow.com

That’s it! Have fun exploring together.

How to Split Screen Minecraft Online?

Let me clarify: you can’t split the screen with a remote online player—that's only possible when multiple players share the same TV. But if you’re playing locally with friends, you can still invite others online to join your game.

The setup is similar. Create your game as before, but this time enable multiplayer. Then, send invites to your online friends and you're set.

Split Screen on Minecraft
Image: youtube.com

Today, Minecraft remains one of the top co-op games around, and I love how it lets you play side-by-side with friends. I’m confident you’ll enjoy it too—so give it a go and share the fun with a good crew!