Borderlands 3 supports split-screen play, allowing two players to enjoy the game side by side on the same screen. To play split-screen locally, each player must log into their own profile on their controller before joining at the main menu, where the second player presses the designated button to connect. This setup enables friends to dive into the game together without needing an online connection.
The game limits local split-screen to two players, optimizing the screen space for better gameplay without overwhelming the display. Players can create or select characters individually, and Borderlands 3’s level-sync feature balances experience and damage, ensuring cooperative play remains fair and enjoyable regardless of character progress.
Split-screen mode keeps the cooperative spirit alive with options for shared loot or competitive playstyles, catering to different player preferences. Understanding how to activate and manage these features enhances the experience for anyone looking to play Borderlands 3 together in person.
Key Takeaways
- Two players can connect locally by logging into separate profiles on their controllers.
- Split-screen mode balances gameplay with level syncing for fair co-op progress.
- Players can choose cooperative or competitive loot settings during split-screen play.
Setting Up Split Screen in Borderlands 3
Borderlands 3 supports split-screen play on specific platforms, with player limits varying between consoles and PC. Activation involves connecting controllers in a particular sequence on consoles. The game also offers distinct co-op modes catering to either cooperative or competitive playstyles.
Supported Platforms and Player Limits
Split-screen in Borderlands 3 is officially supported on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5. On these consoles, the game allows two players to play locally on a single screen.
PC does not natively support split-screen. However, third-party software like Universal Split Screen can enable multiple instances for local multiplayer, but this is unofficial and requires manual setup.
The maximum local player count for split-screen is two. For more than two players, online multiplayer must be used. This limitation is important for players planning to use split-screen for more than two participants.
Step-by-Step Activation for Consoles
To activate split-screen on consoles, players must start from the main menu of Borderlands 3. First, the primary player launches the game and remains on the main menu screen.
Next, a second controller is turned on and used to press the corresponding “join” button (e.g., A on Xbox controllers or X on PlayStation controllers). This action invites the second player to join the party locally.
Once the second player joins, the primary player selects Play, followed by Add Splitscreen on the next menu. The game then loads the split-screen mode, allowing both players to play side-by-side on the same display.
Attempting to add splitscreen after entering the game or using a different sequence will prevent proper activation. Thus, following these steps precisely is critical.
Co-op Modes: Cooperation vs. Coopetition
Borderlands 3 supports cooperative play where players work as a team to complete objectives and defeat enemies together. Both players share loot, experience, and progress equally during splitscreen sessions.
Alternatively, a coopetition style occurs naturally since players can compete for loot drops and in-game resources within the same environment. This unofficial competitive aspect can add an extra layer of challenge between players.
Menu options do not explicitly separate these modes; the experience depends on how players engage in the gameplay. Both styles are possible in split-screen and impact strategies for combat and resource management.
Split Screen Features and Tips
Borderlands 3 split screen allows players to share a single screen for local co-op play. Understanding different screen layouts, managing save files, and adjusting performance settings can enhance the experience and minimize potential issues.
Screen Orientation Options
Borderlands 3 supports horizontal split screen by default on consoles and PC when playing locally with two players. This layout divides the screen into top and bottom halves.
Players cannot switch to vertical split screen natively, which places player views side by side. This limitation might affect visibility depending on the display size and personal preference.
Adjusting the physical positioning of the display, such as tilting the monitor or using a large TV, can improve comfort during split screen sessions. Screen borders and UI elements remain consistent, ensuring both players have access to necessary gameplay information.
Save Data and Progress Considerations
In Borderlands 3 split screen, save data is tied to the primary account on the console or PC. Only the host’s progression and inventory are saved automatically in local co-op.
Secondary players use guest profiles or separate accounts, but their individual progress and customizations do not always carry over fully between sessions.
It is vital to communicate before starting sessions to avoid conflicts or lost progress. Guest players should note which character they are using, as switching between split screen and online multiplayer modes can affect save continuity.
Performance and Visual Adjustments
Playing Borderlands 3 in split screen mode reduces rendering resolution since the GPU must process two viewpoints simultaneously.
The game runs at a lower or dynamic resolution to maintain performance on consoles such as PS4 and Xbox One. Frame rates may dip compared to single-player or online multiplayer modes, especially during intense combat scenarios.
Players should consider lowering graphics settings or disabling intensive effects if performance issues arise. On PC, third-party programs like Universal Split Screen can aid split screen functionality but may require manual configuration to optimize visuals and prevent input lag.
