Terraria has split screen, but only on console versions

Terraria supports split screen on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. The PC version does not have split screen built in. If you own the game on console, you can play with another person on the same TV without needing a second copy of the game — both players use one console and two controllers.

Split screen works in both single-player and multiplayer modes. You can explore the world together, fight bosses as a team, or build structures side by side. The screen divides horizontally, so each player sees their own vertical section of the world while staying aware of what the other person is doing nearby.

Key Takeaways

  • Split screen is available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, but not on PC.
  • You need one console, one copy of Terraria, and two controllers to play split screen.
  • Both players can explore the same world together, and the game saves progress for both.
  • Split screen works whether you are playing locally only or connected to online multiplayer servers.
  • The screen divides horizontally, and each player controls their own character independently.

What you need to play split screen

You need a console (Switch, PlayStation 4, or Xbox One), one copy of Terraria installed on that console, and two controllers. Both controllers must be connected to the console before you start the game. On Nintendo Switch, you can use Joy-Con controllers, a Pro Controller paired with a single Joy-Con, or two Pro Controllers.

On PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, use two DualShock 4 controllers or two Xbox One controllers respectively. Make sure both controllers are charged and synced to the console. If a controller is not recognized, restart the console and try pairing it again through your system settings.

How to start a split screen game

Launch Terraria on your console. From the main menu, select "Play" or "New Game." When the game asks whether you want to play single-player or multiplayer, choose the multiplayer option. The game will then prompt you to select a world — you can create a new world or load an existing one.

Once you enter the world, the second controller will automatically join as a second character. The first player uses the first controller, and the second player uses the second controller. Both characters spawn in the world, and the screen splits so each player has their own view. If the second controller is not recognized, return to the main menu and check that both controllers are connected before trying again.

How split screen display works

The screen divides horizontally into two sections — the top half shows one player's view, and the bottom half shows the other player's view. Each player sees their own character in the center of their section and can move independently around the world. When one player moves far away from the other, their sections of the map show different areas.

The split adjusts as you play. If both players are close together, you may see overlapping terrain on both screens. If one player goes deep underground while the other stays on the surface, each screen shows that player's location. This setup lets both players explore at their own pace while staying in the same world.

Playing online multiplayer with split screen

You can use split screen while connected to Terraria's online servers. This means two people on the same console can play together in a world that other online players can also join. To do this, start a split screen game, then look for the option to enable online multiplayer or connect to a server.

When you enable online play, other players can join your world through the server browser, and they will appear in the game alongside your two split screen players. The split screen remains on your TV — the online players see the full screen on their own devices. This is useful if you want to play locally with a friend while also inviting others to join remotely.

Differences between console and PC versions

Terraria on PC does not have split screen. If you play on a computer, you can only play single-player or join online multiplayer servers with one character per account. To play with someone else on the same PC, you would need two separate accounts and two separate copies of the game running at the same time, which requires more setup and processing power.

If you want split screen specifically, you need to play on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, or Xbox One. The console versions are designed for local multiplayer from the ground up, so split screen is built into the game rather than added as an afterthought.

Troubleshooting split screen problems

If the second controller is not joining the game, first check that it is connected to the console and shows up in your system settings. Restart Terraria and try again. If it still does not work, restart the console entirely, then reconnect both controllers before launching the game.

If the split screen display looks wrong — for example, if one half is black or frozen — try pausing the game and unpausing it, or return to the main menu and rejoin the world. If one player's character is not moving, check that their controller is not out of battery and that they are pressing the correct buttons. On Nintendo Switch, make sure you are not in handheld mode if you are trying to use two separate controllers; you need to dock the Switch or use a stand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play split screen on Nintendo Switch in handheld mode?

No. Split screen requires two controllers, which means the Switch must be docked or in tabletop mode so both players can hold controllers. Handheld mode only supports one player at a time.

Do both players need their own copy of Terraria?

No. One copy of Terraria on one console is enough for two players to play split screen together. Both players use the same game installation.

Can I play split screen offline?

Yes. Split screen works entirely offline. You do not need an internet connection or online subscription to play locally with another person on the same console.

What happens to my progress if I play split screen?

Both players' progress saves to the same world file. When you exit the game, all items collected, structures built, and bosses defeated by either player remain in that world for the next time you play.

Can I switch between split screen and single-player in the same world?

Yes. You can load a world in split screen mode with two players, then later load the same world in single-player mode with just one controller. The world itself stays the same — only the number of active players changes.