Know How to do Split Screen on Fortnite and Play Together with your Closest Friends

Playing Fortnite is always more fun when you can share the excitement with someone right beside you. Online lobbies are great for teaming up, but sometimes you just want the comfort of sitting next to a friend or sibling and enjoying the game together. Passing the controller back and forth can get boring, and watching someone else play is not the same as being part of the action. This is where split-screen makes a big difference. It helps two players play on the same screen at the same time, turning Fortnite into a more friendly and personal experience.

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know, from what split-screen actually is and the requirements to set it up, to the steps for enabling it, the modes it supports, and the solutions to common issues you might face. Below you will find the full guide on how to do split screen on Fortnite.

What is Split-Screen in Fortnite?

Split-screen in Fortnite is a function that allows two people to play together on the same console and TV. Instead of waiting for your turn, both players get their own area of the screen - the screen is split in half, one section for each player - which allows both players to move and play at the same time.

Split-screen is an awesome feature that allows you and someone else to play Fortnite together, enjoying the game without worrying about needing two consoles or two TVs. But, one thing you need to note is that the split-screen only works on PlayStation and Xbox, so in case if you were playing Fortnite on a PC or mobile, you would not be able to take advantage of this feature.

Think of split-screen as the ultimate way to play Fortnite when you are with someone in the same room. Whether you are trying to get a Victory Royale or just run around adventuring together, split-screen helps make it more personal with the social aspects of gaming. Continue reading to find out how to do split screen on Fortnite

Requirements for Split Screen in Fortnite

Before you set up split-screen, you need to make sure a few main things and requirements are in place. Not every setup works here, so first, you need a console that supports the feature. In present times, we can see Fortnite split-screen features only work on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X or S. Devices like Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile devices do not support it. Maybe we can see these features in the future on these devices.

Second, you need two controllers, and it is a very basic requirement, as each player must have their own controller connected to the console. Without this, the split-screen option will not appear.

The third most important thing is, both players need their own Epic Games accounts. You cannot play together using only one account.

Finally, a stable internet connection is important. Since Fortnite is an online game, both players share the same connection, so make sure your internet speed can handle it without lagging.

Once these requirements are set, you are ready to move on to the actual process of enabling split-screen.

How to Do Split Screen on Fortnite

Now that we have already discussed and understand the basics of split-screen, let’s go step by step to set up split-screen in Fortnite. It is not as difficult a process as it sounds, but you need to follow the steps in the right order for it to work properly. Here's how to do Split screen on Fortnite:

Step 1: Launch Fortnite on your console

Switch on your PlayStation or Xbox and start the Fortnite game. Always check that your game is updated to the newest version, because sometimes the split-screen option may not appear in older builds. After loading, you will land on the main menu using your main account.

Step 2: Connect both controller

Once Fortnite is started on your device, connect the second controller to the console. If you are using a PlayStation, press the PlayStation button on the controller. On Xbox, press the Xbox button. The console will detect the controller and make it ready for use.

Step 3: Sign in with the second account

For split-screen to work, the second controller must be linked to a different Epic Games account. This can be an existing account or a fresh one created for the second player; there's no problem creating one at the same time. Both players cannot share the same account, so logging in separately is a must, and once this is done, the option for the second player to join will appear.

Step 4: Enable split-screen mode in the lobby

When both accounts are signed in, you will see a small message at the bottom of the screen asking the second player to press a button to join. Do that, and the screen will automatically divide into two parts. Usually, player one will be shown on the left side, while player two appears on the right. Both of you will now see your characters in the lobby together.

Step 5: Start a game together

After you are both in the lobby, pick a supported mode such as Duos or Squads. The screen will feel smaller since it is shared between two players, but the excitement of playing side by side more than makes up for it. These steps should let you know how to play split screen on Fortnite.

Game Modes Available in Split Screen

It's only available in some modes. As of now, split-screen is available for Battle Royale in Duos and Squads. The Duos mode is perfect for duos because two players play on a team and compete against all other pairs of players, allowing for the greatest amount of coordination and strategy. The Squads mode allows for up to four players and is great for playing with your friends online while you share the screen locally.
Modes like Creative, Save the World, Team Rumble, and Solo have no support for split-screen functionality. This limitation is very important to keep the game fair and smooth for all players. For example, Creative mode requires more individual space to build, and Solo modes require the player to focus on their own match; that is why split-screen is not supported.
Although it is solely a Duos and Squads environment, there are still many ways you can play Fortnite together. Both gameplay modes allow a great opportunity to discuss strategies, communicate in real-time with each other, or simply enjoy the thrill of winning a match right next to someone.

Common Issues and Fixes for Split Screen in Fortnite

While split-screen is a fun way to play Fortnite with someone nearby, it doesn’t always work perfectly. Many players run into small problems when trying to set it up. Here are some of the most common issues and how you can fix them.

• A common problem is that the split-screen option does not show up at all. This usually happens if you are not using a supported console or if the second controller is not properly connected. Make sure you are playing on a PlayStation or Xbox and check that both controllers are working. Reconnecting the controllers can often solve this issue.
• Another issue is when the second account cannot log in. This can occur if the account is not linked correctly to Epic Games or if the servers are experiencing temporary problems. The easiest solution is to log out and try signing in again. If that does not work, check the Epic Games website to ensure the account is properly linked.
• Sometimes, Fortnite may crash or freeze when you try to enable split-screen. This can happen if your console or game is not updated to the latest version. Make sure both Fortnite and your console have all the updates installed. Restarting the game or even the console can also fix many of these freezing or crashing problems.
• Performance issues like lag can also appear because two players are sharing the same console and resources. To reduce lag, try using a wired internet connection instead of Wi-Fi and avoid running other apps in the background.
• Finally, some players may be confused when they cannot switch to certain game modes. This is not an error but a built-in limitation. Split-screen only works in Duos and Squads. Modes like Solo, Creative, Save the World, or Team Rumble are not supported, so the option will not appear when trying to play them.

Aside from this Fortnite split-screen guide, we also covered a detailed article on the game's mechanics. You can check out the full Fortnite Guide on our official website.