How to Play Split-Screen Multiplayer on Terraria for Nintendo Switch
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The whimsical, pixelated world of Terraria is even more enjoyable when shared with a friend. If you’re looking to experience this adventure in local co-op on your Nintendo Switch, the good news is that split-screen multiplayer is indeed an option! Here’s a direct and comprehensive answer on how to dive into some couch co-op:
To play split-screen on Terraria for the Nintendo Switch, you need to ensure the following:
- Docked Mode: The split-screen feature is only available when your Switch is docked and connected to a TV. Handheld mode does not support split-screen.
- Two Controllers: You will need a second set of Joy-Cons or a Pro Controller connected to the console.
- Separate Accounts: Each player must have their own Nintendo Switch user account. These accounts do not need to be connected to Nintendo Online; they simply need to exist on the console.
- Start the Game: Launch Terraria using the main account (Player 1).
- Join the Game: Once a game world has been loaded, Player 2 can press the “+” or “-” button on their controller to join. The screen will then split, and each player will have their own view of the game world.
That’s it! Once the second player has joined, you are free to explore, build, fight, and craft together in the world of Terraria. Keep reading for more details and answers to frequently asked questions.
Understanding Terraria Split-Screen on the Switch
Terraria’s split-screen mode on the Nintendo Switch allows for a seamless co-operative experience. Both players can navigate the world independently, mine, build, battle, and progress together within the same world. This is excellent for playing together as a family or with friends, enjoying the game’s rich and varied gameplay side-by-side.
Setting Up Your Switch for Split-Screen
The primary focus is to make sure your Switch is in docked mode, and that a second controller is properly paired to the system. Ensure both players have profiles created and are logged into the system. These do not have to be Nintendo Online accounts, just individual profiles on the device. Once this is done, you’re more or less ready to start enjoying Terraria in split-screen mode.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions that often arise when exploring how to play Terraria in split-screen mode on the Switch, providing detailed explanations and answers to common issues:
1. Can I play split-screen in handheld mode?
No, the split-screen feature in Terraria is exclusively available when the Nintendo Switch is docked and connected to a TV. Handheld mode does not support this feature due to the screen size limitations.
2. Do I need a Nintendo Online subscription for split-screen?
No, a Nintendo Online subscription is not required to play split-screen. The second player joining just needs to have an existing local profile on the Nintendo Switch.
3. Can more than two people play split-screen on the Switch?
Currently, Terraria on the Nintendo Switch only supports two-player split-screen. You can have up to 8 players locally or online, but not all on a single split screen.
4. Do both players need their own copy of the game to play split-screen?
No, only one copy of Terraria is needed for two players to enjoy the game in split-screen on a single Nintendo Switch console.
5. What controllers can be used for split-screen?
You can use a variety of controllers for split-screen play: a pair of Joy-Cons, a single set of Joy-Cons per player, a Pro Controller for one or both players, or even some third-party compatible controllers. The key is that they need to be recognized by the Switch and associated with a user profile.
6. How do I add a second player to the game?
After starting a Terraria game world, the second player can join by pressing the “+” or “-” button on their connected controller. This will trigger the screen to split, and they can begin playing.
7. Can Player 2 bring their characters/items from another world?
No, each time a player joins, they will start with a default character. The game does not provide a way to transfer a player’s existing save game into the split-screen. To gain any progress for Player 2, they will need to collect and earn it within the current game world.
8. Can we explore different areas on the map at the same time?
Yes, the split-screen feature allows both players to explore different areas of the map simultaneously, giving each a personal view of the world as they move independently.
9. What happens if one player dies?
If one player dies, they will respawn at their bed. If no bed has been placed they will start back at their original spawn point. This will not affect the gameplay of the other player.
10. Is the split-screen functionality smooth and lag-free?
The performance of split-screen on Terraria on the Switch is generally smooth and enjoyable. However, like most split-screen games, performance can be slightly reduced when there’s a lot of action on screen. Generally, it’s acceptable, and not too noticeable.
11. Does the split-screen feature affect the difficulty of the game?
The game’s difficulty isn’t changed by enabling split-screen. The monster health and difficulty is dynamically changed based on the number of players on a server; this will apply in split-screen as well. The difficulty is adjusted to make the gameplay suitably challenging for more than one player.
12. Can we switch to online multiplayer after playing in split-screen?
Yes, you can save your progress in the split-screen game, then go to the main menu and switch to online multiplayer with the same world. The character progress is independent to the player, and will be retained.
13. Is there a way to adjust the size or position of the split-screen?
Unfortunately, the split-screen display in Terraria is a fixed vertical split. There are no settings to adjust the size or the position of the splits.
14. Can both players interact with the same chests or crafting stations?
Yes, both players can interact with all game elements such as chests, crafting stations, and other environmental items. This is necessary for a fluid co-op experience.
15. How do I know if split-screen is not working correctly?
If the second player is unable to join the game, make sure both player profiles are correctly loaded, and that the correct controllers are assigned to each player. Ensure the Switch is docked and all controller settings are up to date. Try to restart both the game and the console if the issues persist. If these don’t work, check the official Terraria forums for possible known bugs and fixes.
Conclusion
Playing Terraria in split-screen on the Nintendo Switch is a fantastic way to share the experience with a friend or family member. By ensuring the right setup and following these guidelines, you can enjoy countless hours exploring, battling, and building together in a shared world.