Can You Use Two Controllers at Once on a PS4?

Yes, absolutely! The PlayStation 4 (PS4) is designed to support multiple controllers, allowing for a fantastic local multiplayer experience. You can connect and use up to four PS4 controllers simultaneously on one console. This opens the door for a wide array of cooperative and competitive gaming sessions with friends and family, all from the comfort of your living room. This capability makes the PS4 a hub for social gaming, where everyone can join in on the fun.

How to Connect a Second Controller to Your PS4

Connecting a second controller, or even a third or fourth, to your PS4 is a straightforward process that primarily involves Bluetooth technology. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Pairing via Bluetooth

1. Turn on your PS4: Start by powering on your PlayStation 4 console using the power button.
2. Initiate pairing mode on the new controller: Press and hold the PlayStation button (the central PS button) and the Share button (located to the left of the touchpad) on the controller you wish to pair. Continue holding both buttons until the light bar on the top of the controller starts flashing rapidly. This indicates that the controller is in pairing mode and ready to connect.
3. Access the PS4 Settings: Using your already connected controller, navigate to the Settings menu on the PS4’s home screen.
4. Go to Devices: In the Settings menu, select Devices.
5. Choose Bluetooth Devices: Next, select Bluetooth Devices. Your PS4 will now scan for Bluetooth devices.
6. Select your new controller: Your controller should appear as a new device in the list. Click on the controller to select it.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions: The PS4 will provide on-screen prompts to complete the pairing process. Once done, the light bar on the new controller should be lit up solid, indicating a successful connection.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

If you encounter any difficulties connecting a second controller, consider the following:

• Controller Battery: Ensure the controller you are trying to connect is adequately charged. A low battery can sometimes interfere with the pairing process.
• Sync Issues: If your controller has previously been connected to a different PS4 or other Bluetooth device, you may need to “forget” the connection. This can usually be done via the Bluetooth settings on the other device.
• Controller Reset: If all else fails, try resetting the controller. You can do this by using a small pin or unfolded paperclip to press the reset button located on the back of the controller, near the L2 shoulder button. Then, try the pairing process again.
• Wireless Interference: Ensure there aren’t any devices near your PS4 that could cause wireless interference. This can sometimes disrupt the Bluetooth connection.

Games That Benefit From Local Multiplayer

The ability to connect multiple controllers makes many games significantly more enjoyable, offering fun for everyone. Games like sports titles, fighting games, and co-op adventures are perfect examples. Here are a few notable categories that often take advantage of multiple controllers on the PS4:

• Fighting Games: Games such as Mortal Kombat 11, Street Fighter V, and Tekken 7 are always more enjoyable when played locally with friends. The fast-paced action and friendly rivalries make these perfect for gatherings.
• Sports Games: Titles like FIFA, NBA 2K, and Madden NFL allow multiple players to compete on the same team or against each other. These games are great for parties and group activities.
• Co-op Adventure Games: Titles such as It Takes Two, Overcooked, and A Way Out offer unique gaming experiences designed for two or more players. The collaborative nature of these games makes them especially fun to play with a friend or family member.
• Racing Games: Racing games like Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled or Gran Turismo Sport provide a competitive local multiplayer element where players can compete on a split-screen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding using multiple controllers on the PS4 to further guide you.

1. Can I use PS5 controllers on my PS4?

While the DualSense controllers for the PS5 are not directly compatible with the PS4, there are third-party adapters available that may allow you to use them, but it’s not a guaranteed experience. It’s generally best to stick with PS4 DualShock controllers for a reliable and consistent experience.

2. How many players can play locally on a PS4?

The PS4 supports up to four players locally, meaning you can have up to four controllers connected to a single console for local multiplayer gaming.

3. What is Share Play on PS4?

Share Play allows you to invite a friend online to view your screen and, at times, even hand over control to them. It is limited to 60-minute sessions. This is a different feature than local multiplayer, and is used for remote play.

4. Can I use a PS4 controller for It Takes Two?

Yes, you can use PS4 controllers for It Takes Two, and it usually works without issue if you manually connect them. Sometimes, the game might not recognize it automatically, but going through the connection process should allow it to work.

5. How many people can play online on PS4?

The PS4 supports up to 8 players online for certain multiplayer games. It depends on the specific game.

6. Do I need two copies of a game to play on two different consoles?

Yes, if you want to play the same game on two different consoles at the same time, each console must have its own copy of the game. This is a standard requirement for most games.

7. Can I play It Takes Two with two controllers on the same console?

Absolutely! It Takes Two is specifically designed for co-op play. You can play it with two controllers on the same console via couch co-op, where you simply connect two controllers and start the game.

8. Can you use split controllers with It Takes Two?

Yes, as mentioned before, the game was designed for couch co-op which can be achieved by using two gamepads/controllers or two joy cons.

9. Can you connect two Xbox controllers to a PS4?

No, Xbox controllers are not natively compatible with the PS4. You would need a third-party adapter, which may not always be reliable, to connect Xbox controllers to a PS4 console. It is recommended that you use controllers designed for the system that you are using.

10. Can you play It Takes Two if you only have one copy?

Yes, the game has a Friend’s Pass feature, which allows one player to invite a friend to join online for free if only one person owns the game. This is not for couch co-op however.

11. Can you play It Takes Two on PS5 with a PS4 controller?

Unfortunately, PS4 controllers are not compatible with PS5 games natively. You would need to use a DualSense controller to play PS5 games.

12. Can you connect two consoles together for a local multiplayer experience?

Yes, to connect consoles you would connect them to a separate monitor or tv. You would also need to use ethernet cables and connect both to your internet source. Both consoles would also need their own copy of the game that you wish to play.

13. Can two people play the same game with game sharing on Xbox?

Yes, an account can share a game with other accounts that use the console that is logged in. This will allow others to play the games attached to that account on that specific console. However, you cannot do this across different consoles.

14. Why is my second controller not connecting to my PS4?

Possible reasons include a faulty wireless connection, low battery, an unsynced controller, or too many active connections. Troubleshoot by checking the battery, following the pairing procedure, and resetting the controller if needed.

15. Can two players play PS5 on the same console?

Yes, you can play up to four local players on a PS5 for certain games and up to two can play when connected to PSN. This depends on the game you wish to play.

By following these guidelines and troubleshooting steps, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable multiplayer experience on your PS4. Whether you’re diving into intense battles or embarking on cooperative adventures, the PS4’s multiple controller support opens a whole world of possibilities for local multiplayer gaming.