Can 2 Players Play PS Remote Play? The Definitive Guide
The short answer is: No, two players cannot directly play a game together using PS Remote Play on the same console. PS Remote Play is designed for single-player access to your PlayStation console from another device. While the technology is incredibly convenient for playing your games remotely, it doesn’t support concurrent multiplayer gameplay sessions with two separate individuals on separate devices accessing the same console simultaneously.
However, the landscape of PlayStation gaming and its remote capabilities is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. While direct two-player remote play isn’t possible, there are related functions and configurations you might be curious about. This article will thoroughly explore the limitations of PS Remote Play, discuss related features like Share Play, and answer some frequently asked questions about playing multiplayer on PlayStation consoles.
Understanding the Limitations of PS Remote Play
PS Remote Play essentially mirrors your PlayStation console’s output onto another device, such as a smartphone, tablet, computer, or even another PlayStation device using the PlayStation Portal. It allows you to control your PS4 or PS5 remotely, as if you were sitting in front of your television. This feature is designed for one player per Remote Play session. You are essentially taking control of your console from a distance.
The system does not support multiple concurrent Remote Play connections to the same console from different accounts. If another person tries to initiate a remote play session while one is already active, the first one will be disconnected. It’s the same principle as trying to access the same desktop computer remotely from two different machines simultaneously – only one connection can be active at any given moment.
Exploring Related Multiplayer Options
Although PS Remote Play doesn’t allow direct multiplayer, there are other ways to play with friends remotely. The most relevant is Share Play. Share Play offers a way for you to invite a friend to virtually join you in a game, even if they don’t own the game themselves.
What is Share Play?
Share Play allows you to invite another player from your friends list to view your gameplay, or even take control of your game as if they were using the controller on your console. There are different modes available within Share Play:
- Share Screen: This mode lets your friend watch your gameplay. They can’t control the game, but they can see what you’re doing.
- Play with the Visitor: In this mode, you can allow your friend to control your character or participate in local multiplayer games as a second player, virtually using their controller.
- Hand over Control: This mode allows your friend to fully take over your game and play as if it were their own.
Important note: Share Play requires both players to have a PlayStation Plus subscription to use the ‘Play with the Visitor’ function, otherwise only screen viewing is available. Also, it only supports one invitee at a time. Share play cannot be used simultaneously with remote play or broadcasting.
Local Multiplayer on PS4 and PS5
While Remote Play is a single-user experience, both PS4 and PS5 consoles are excellent for local multiplayer gameplay. They support various games that allow multiple players to play together on the same console.
- PS4: Supports up to 2 players locally. Many PS4 games offer couch co-op or split-screen options for local play. Additionally, online modes are available for games that have such options. The PS4 console can host up to 8 players for online multiplayer.
- PS5: Supports up to 4 players locally for split-screen or couch cooperative gameplay in supported titles. Like the PS4, PS5 can also host more online players as supported by specific games. The next-gen version will feature up to four-player split-screen cooperative gameplay and 4K visuals at 60 frames per second.
It is important to remember that local multiplayer on the console means players are physically present with you on the same TV screen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about PS Remote Play and multiplayer gaming on PlayStation consoles, designed to clarify any confusion:
1. How many people can use Remote Play at the same time?
Only one person can use Remote Play at a time per console. If another person tries to connect, the existing Remote Play session will be terminated.
2. Can you share play and use remote play at the same time?
No, you cannot use Share Play and Remote Play at the same time. These functions are mutually exclusive.
3. Can two players play on the same PS5?
Yes, up to four players can play offline on the same PS5 console with local multiplayer games. Two players can play together online with one of the players acting as a guest under the same PSN account, this requires only one account to have PS Plus.
4. Can two players play split-screen on PS4?
Yes, many PS4 games support split-screen multiplayer for two players on the same console. You and a friend can play games in your home on the same TV screen.
5. Can you Remote Play PS4 while someone else is using it locally?
No, you cannot use Remote Play if the PS4 console is currently being used locally, during broadcasting or by another user accessing using Remote Play or Share Play.
6. How do you use two controllers on PS4 for local multiplayer?
To use two controllers on a PS4, press and hold the PlayStation logo on the second controller to pair it. The light bar will turn red, indicating it is the second controller.
7. Can you Remote Play PS5 while someone else is playing?
Yes, you can use PlayStation Portal™ Remote Player to stream games from your PS5, even if someone else is using the TV connected to the console locally. This provides a convenient way to access your PS5 from a different location on your home network.
8. Can two people play the same game on PS4 and PS5?
Yes, using Share Play, you can play games together, or share your game library. A PS4 user can also play PS5 games this way.
9. Can you use a PS4 as a second screen for PS5?
Using PS4 Link, a PS4 can work as a second screen for PS4 Remote Play. This can be set up within the Remote Play settings on the PS4. This allows for control of PS4 games via PS4 Link from your PS4 screen.
10. How do you use Remote Play as a second monitor?
Using the PS4 Link App, you can initiate remote play, then select second screen mode from the function menu to turn your second device into a second screen to display PS4 content. On mobile devices, you can enable the Picture in Picture feature.
11. Can you share play with multiple people on PS5?
No, you can only use Share Play with one visitor at a time on PS5. The person you are sharing with must also have a PlayStation Plus subscription to fully participate.
12. How many PS5 controllers can you connect?
You can connect up to 4 PS5 controllers to a single PS5 console at a time. Each controller needs to be paired initially, and a single controller can only be paired with one console at a time.
13. Can 4 players play on PS4?
Yes, many PS4 games support four-player local multiplayer through split screen, couch co-op, or versus gameplay, in the game selection available on the system.
14. Can I connect 2 PS5 controllers to PS4?
PS5 controllers are not directly compatible with PS4 consoles, but third-party adapters are available to achieve this connection. However, they don’t work natively.
15. Do both people need PS Plus for Share Play?
For full Share Play functionality (specifically, the “Play with the Visitor” mode), both the host and visitor need to be PlayStation Plus members. If the invited player is not a PS Plus member, they can only view the gameplay, but cannot play along.
Conclusion
While PS Remote Play is not designed for simultaneous multiplayer gaming with two separate users on distinct devices, it is a fantastic feature for accessing your PlayStation console from afar. Understanding the limitations and complementary features like Share Play allows you to better navigate your multiplayer gaming options on the PlayStation. Remember to consider local multiplayer games on your consoles for playing with friends in the same room. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now well-equipped to make the most of your PlayStation gaming experience, whether you’re playing solo on Remote Play, sharing the experience through Share Play, or enjoying a fun couch co-op session.