Can I Play Split Screen on Steam? A Deep Dive into Local Multiplayer on PC
The short answer is: yes, you can play split-screen games on Steam, though it’s not as straightforward as it might be on a console. While PC gaming hasn’t traditionally been synonymous with local co-op experiences, the demand for shared-screen play is rising, and many titles on Steam cater to this desire. This article will explore the nuances of split-screen gaming on Steam, clarify how it works, and address some frequently asked questions.
Understanding Split-Screen on PC
The term “split-screen” refers to a game display where the screen is divided into multiple areas, each representing a different player’s view. This allows multiple players to participate in a game on a single display device. Historically, this has been a staple of console gaming, but with the evolution of PC hardware and software, split-screen gaming is finding its niche in the PC space as well.
While not as universally supported as online multiplayer, many games on Steam offer local co-op, which can include split-screen. It’s important to note that the implementation of split-screen can vary greatly from game to game. Some games might have a classic vertical or horizontal split, while others might utilize dynamic splits, adjusting screen real estate based on player proximity.
How to Find Split-Screen Games on Steam
Unfortunately, Steam doesn’t have a specific filter for “split-screen” games. Instead, you’ll often have to look for games tagged with “Local Co-op” or “Shared/Split Screen”. You can also browse through popular lists on Steam curated by users. Additionally, look through game trailers and descriptions for mentions of local multiplayer capabilities. Often, a game’s store page will clearly state if split-screen functionality is supported.
Utilizing Steam’s Search Functionality
To find split-screen games, start with Steam’s search bar. Use terms like “local multiplayer,” “couch co-op,” or “split screen” to narrow down your search. Once you find a potential game, carefully read the description and check user reviews for confirmation of split-screen play.
Community Curated Lists
Steam’s community is an excellent resource. You’ll find many user-created lists and guides that highlight the best local co-op and split-screen games. These are often a good starting point if you’re not sure where to begin.
Alternative Local Co-op Methods on Steam
It’s worth noting that “local co-op” on Steam can encompass more than just split-screen. It also includes games that allow multiple players to share a single display, either by taking turns or using different input methods like a keyboard and a controller. Furthermore, there’s Remote Play Together, a fantastic feature that allows you to play local co-op games with friends online. While not technically split-screen, it achieves a similar goal by sharing a game instance between multiple players and screen-sharing your view.
Remote Play Together: Sharing Your Game Experience
Steam’s Remote Play Together feature is a powerful way to play local multiplayer games with friends who may not be physically with you. By hosting the game and sending an invite to your friend, they can virtually play as if they were on the couch next to you. This essentially simulates the experience of a local co-op setup even when players are remote.
Why Isn’t Split-Screen More Common on PC?
The prevalence of online multiplayer has significantly impacted game development. While split-screen was a staple of past generations, many modern games now focus on online play. This shift can be attributed to several factors:
- Profitability: It is often argued that developers focus on online multiplayer since it encourages each player to buy their own copy of the game instead of sharing a local experience.
- Development Complexity: Designing and implementing split-screen functionality adds complexity to the development process. It means optimizing game performance to handle multiple viewpoints simultaneously, which can be resource-intensive.
- Performance Demands: Modern games often feature highly detailed environments, and rendering them multiple times for a split-screen display can significantly strain PC hardware.
- Market Trends: The market has largely shifted toward online multiplayer, reducing the demand for local co-op in many developers’ views.
The Resurgence of Local Co-op
Despite the challenges, there’s a growing resurgence of interest in local co-op and split-screen gaming, with many indie titles and some major releases pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on PC. Many players crave the social interaction and personal engagement that comes with playing together in the same room. As a result, more developers are revisiting this gameplay style, leading to an increase in local multiplayer offerings on Steam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Split-Screen on Steam
1. Can I play the same game twice on two separate computers from one Steam account?
No. Each Steam account can only run one game from its library at a time, regardless of the number of computers the game is installed on. For playing simultaneously on different computers, use Family Sharing.
2. What is Steam Family Sharing and how does it help with local multiplayer?
Steam Family Sharing allows authorized accounts to access a shared library of games. This means multiple users can play the same game library separately, each with their own progress and achievements. It’s crucial for families and friends wanting to game together using different accounts.
3. Can you play couch co-op on Steam Deck?
Yes, you can play local co-op on the Steam Deck in a few different ways. The Steam Deck supports multiple controllers, and it’s possible to play both split-screen and single-screen local multiplayer games.
4. How does Remote Play Together work?
Remote Play Together lets you invite friends to join your local co-op game remotely. Once they accept the invite, your friend effectively sees your game screen and can control a character using their own inputs as if they were local to the game on your computer.
5. What does “local co-op” mean on Steam?
Local co-op is where you can play with other people in the same room on one PC, often using multiple controllers or a combination of keyboard, mouse, and controllers.
6. What is Family View on Steam?
Family View on Steam is a parental control feature. It allows parents to restrict access to specific games and features for child accounts within the family.
7. Why are split-screen games less common on PC?
Split-screen games are less prevalent due to a combination of factors, including a focus on online multiplayer, the increased complexity of development, higher performance demands, and market trends.
8. What are some examples of excellent split-screen co-op games?
Popular split-screen games include “It Takes Two,” “Portal 2,” “Borderlands 2,” “Halo: Combat Evolved,” and “Unravel Two”. There are many more, and exploring Steam’s store and community lists is a good way to find them.
9. Is multiplayer free on Steam?
Many multiplayer games on Steam are free to play. Games that you’ve acquired for free on the Steam platform often feature included multiplayer capabilities without extra cost.
10. Why are split-screen games becoming less common?
As console hardware has improved, developers have focused on more detailed environments and online play, making split-screen a more challenging and less profitable option. However, its popularity and demand are seeing some resurgence.
11. Can I share games with friends who live outside my house?
Yes, Steam Family Sharing can work for users who don’t live with you, however there may be technical limitations or issues which Steam Support may not be able to resolve.
12. Are all Steam games sharable?
No, some games cannot be shared. Games that require an additional third-party key, account, or subscription are generally not sharable via Family Sharing.
13. What’s the difference between multiplayer and co-op?
Multiplayer simply means more than one human player is involved. Co-op specifically means that players are collaborating and working together. A game can be multiplayer and competitive, or multiplayer and co-operative (co-op).
14. Can I connect multiple controllers to Steam?
Yes. You can connect multiple controllers to your PC, and to the Steam Deck, allowing for couch co-op play.
15. Can you play with more than one player on Remote Play Together?
Yes, a maximum of four people can participate using Remote Play Together for supported games.
Conclusion: Split-Screen on Steam is Alive and Kicking
While not as commonplace as it once was, split-screen gaming is still a viable and enjoyable option on Steam. By understanding the different terminology, how to navigate Steam’s interface, and the limitations of local multiplayer, you can find plenty of games to enjoy with friends and family. With the rise in both innovative indie titles and remastered classics, local co-op and split-screen on PC are experiencing a welcome resurgence.