Can Xbox One Use 2 Controllers? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, absolutely! The Xbox One is designed to support multiple controllers, allowing for local multiplayer gaming with friends and family. You can easily connect and use two controllers simultaneously for a variety of games, and even more depending on your setup. This article delves into the details of controller connectivity on the Xbox One, addressing common questions and clarifying any confusion you might have.
Setting Up Multiple Controllers
Wireless Connection
The primary method for connecting controllers to your Xbox One is wirelessly. Here’s how to get started:
- Power on your Xbox One console.
- Press the Xbox button on the controller to turn it on.
- Press and release the Pair button on the Xbox One console. On the Xbox One, this button is usually located on the left side. On Xbox Series X, it’s on the front right, above the USB port, and on Xbox Series S, it’s on the front left, to the right of the USB port.
- Press and hold the Pair button on the controller (usually a small button near the top). The Xbox button on the controller will start flashing rapidly.
- Once the controller is paired, the Xbox button will remain lit, and you’re good to go!
Repeat this process for your second controller, and you’ll be able to play games together.
Wired Connection
You can also connect controllers via a wired connection using a USB cable.
- Plug the USB cable into a USB port on your Xbox One. These are typically on the front and back of the console.
- Plug the other end of the USB cable into the controller.
- The controller should automatically pair, and you are ready to play.
The Xbox One supports both wired and wireless controllers, giving you flexibility in your setup.
Playing with Two Controllers
Once you have two controllers connected, the possibilities open up for local multiplayer games. Many Xbox One games support couch co-op, allowing two players to play on the same console. To start playing:
- Make sure each controller is assigned to a different user profile (gamertag) on your console.
- Launch the game and select the mode you want to play (e.g., local multiplayer, co-op).
- Follow the on-screen prompts to set up the player assignments. This usually involves pressing a button on the second controller to have that player join the game.
- You should now be able to play the game with two players on one console.
Games for Two Players
There are numerous games that support two players on the same Xbox One, including:
- Halo: The Master Chief Collection
- The Gears of War Series
- It Takes Two
- Portal 2
- Left 4 Dead 2
- Divinity: Original Sin 2
- The LEGO Games
- Rocket League
- Call of Duty: Black Ops 3
and many more!
Understanding Controller Limits
While the Xbox One can support multiple controllers, there are some limitations to keep in mind:
- Wireless Controllers: The Xbox One can wirelessly connect up to 8 Xbox Wireless Controllers simultaneously.
- Controllers with Headsets: The number of wireless controllers you can use simultaneously reduces when you start adding headsets.
- If you’re using Xbox Chat Headsets, you can connect up to 4 controllers.
- If you’re using Xbox Stereo Headsets, you can connect only up to 2 controllers.
These limits are due to the bandwidth needed for audio transmission via the controllers.
Copilot Feature
The Xbox One also has a unique feature called Copilot, which allows you to link two controllers so they act as one. This feature can be useful for those who need extra assistance while playing. It allows one player to play the game, while another player supports their movements with the second controller.
To turn on copilot, go to the copilot settings. To turn off copilot, go back to the copilot settings and select “Turn off Copilot”.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you connect more than two controllers to an Xbox One?
Yes, you can connect up to 8 wireless controllers at once. However, the number of controllers is limited to 4 if using Xbox Chat Headsets and 2 if using Xbox Stereo Headsets.
2. Do you need two Xbox controllers to play It Takes Two?
Yes, It Takes Two requires two controllers as it is specifically designed for two-player co-op, and the game uses both analog sticks, one for movement and the other for camera control. You will need to have 2 controllers to play It Takes Two.
3. Can I use a wired and a wireless controller at the same time?
Yes, you can use a combination of wired and wireless controllers on the Xbox One simultaneously.
4. Is it possible to use an Xbox controller on a Nintendo Switch?
While technically possible, it requires a third-party adapter. Bluetooth controller connections are also required, as wired third party Xbox controllers won’t work.
5. Can two players play online with split screen on Xbox One?
Yes, some games support online split-screen where two players on the same console can play online with other players.
6. Can you use an Xbox controller on PC?
Yes, Xbox controllers are compatible with PCs. You can connect them wirelessly via Bluetooth or with the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows, or through a wired USB connection.
7. Can I use a wireless adapter to connect more controllers to my PC?
Yes, the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows can connect up to 8 controllers to a PC simultaneously.
8. What is the Copilot feature on Xbox One?
Copilot allows you to link two controllers so they function as one. It is a useful accessibility tool that allows another person to provide support while you are playing a game.
9. Do I need separate profiles for each player using two controllers?
Yes, each controller should be assigned to a separate profile on the Xbox One to properly track player progress and settings in games. This allows the console to track who is who.
10. How many wired controllers can I connect to an Xbox One?
You can connect up to three wired controllers to the Xbox One at once using the USB ports, and in conjunction with wireless ones.
11. Can I use a standard USB hub to connect more wired controllers to my Xbox?
No, the Xbox One console is designed to connect a limited amount of devices through the USB ports, and connecting a hub will not enable the console to use more controllers.
12. Can I play online games with two players on the same Xbox?
Yes, you can play online multiplayer with two players using the same console, depending on the game. You will need a separate gamertag for each player, as well as a game subscription.
13. Does using a chat headset reduce the amount of connected controllers?
Yes, if you are using a Xbox Chat Headset, the number of wireless controllers you can connect is limited to 4.
14. What if I have a third party Xbox controller that is not compatible?
If you have an incompatible controller, you can try to see if any drivers are available, or alternatively, purchase a supported controller.
15. Can you have 2 controllers with same name?
In an ASP.NET MVC application, using the same name for controllers in different areas can cause conflicts. You’ll need to provide the correct namespace when creating the route for each controller to avoid the conflict.
Conclusion
The Xbox One supports two controllers and more, making it ideal for local multiplayer fun. Whether you’re playing co-op, competitive games, or using the Copilot feature, the Xbox One provides plenty of ways to enjoy gaming with multiple players. Remember to pair your controllers correctly, manage your headset usage, and assign each controller to a separate profile for the best experience. With these tips, you’re ready to jump into the world of local multiplayer gaming on your Xbox One!