I have a soft spot for couch co-op. In 2026, the gaming industry still leans toward online-only multiplayer, and split-screen releases are not as common as they were in the Xbox 360 era. Yet when I look at my Xbox library, I find plenty of reasons to hand a controller to a friend, sibling, or partner. The following games are not just nostalgia picks; many are available on Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S, and several can be played through Game Pass. I have played most of them in local sessions, and I keep coming back because nothing beats sharing a screen, a snack, and a chaotic victory.

Halo Infinite (Multiplayer)

When I want a competitive shooter that still respects the couch, I launch Halo Infinite. The campaign split-screen was cancelled, which still stings, but the multiplayer arena supports up to four players in split-screen. Big Team Battle limits local play to two players. The multiplayer is free, and in 2026 it remains one of the most reliable Xbox split-screen shooters. Forge mode keeps the community alive, and online co-op for the campaign exists if you and a friend want to team up from separate screens. I love the energy of passing a controller and trash-talking in the same room.

SpiderHeck

SpiderHeck is absurd in the best way. I did not expect a game about spiders with laser swords to become a regular party pick, but here we are. It supports four-player local co-op, and every match turns into a frantic scramble. You swing, dash, and fire rockets while trying not to fall off the stage. The rounds are short, so losers get revenge quickly. If you want laughter more than competition, this is it. 🕷️

Unravel Two

Unravel Two is my go-to when I want a gentler co-op experience. One player controls Red Yarny, the other controls Blue Yarny. The world is gorgeous, the puzzles are clever, and the cooperation feels natural. It is kid-friendly, but the bonus levels offer a real challenge. I have solved these levels with a friend and with my niece, and both sessions were memorable.

Escape Academy

Escape Academy scratches the escape-room itch without leaving my living room. It has 13 unique rooms, and every puzzle is designed for two players. I love the moment when a solution clicks and we both shout at the same time. Split-screen puzzle games are rare in 2026, so this one feels like a treasure. 🧩

Rayman Legends

Rayman Legends remains one of the best 2D platformers ever made. The art style is stunning, the music levels are rhythmic joy, and the movement is fluid. Up to four players can join locally, and each character feels distinct. I have replayed it many times, and it never gets old. If you only try one platformer from this list, make it this one.

Divinity: Original Sin 2

Divinity: Original Sin 2 is a massive RPG, and the fact that it supports split-screen co-op still amazes me. The game is deep, tactical, and full of choices. When my friend and I play, we can split up, explore different areas, and reunite for tough battles. It is a long commitment, but it is one of the richest co-op experiences on Xbox.

Nobody Saves the World

Nobody Saves the World is an action RPG with a clever transformation system. You start as a blank character and unlock forms like a mouse, a dragon, and many others. Local co-op is supported across every platform, and playing with a friend makes the grind feel like play. The humor is weird, the combat is snappy, and the exploration is rewarding.

Totally Accurate Battle Simulator

Totally Accurate Battle Simulator combines strategy and physics into pure comedy. I place my units, hit start, and watch Vikings, Reapers, and Mammoths fling each other across the battlefield. It is goofy, unpredictable, and perfect for local play. Whether you cooperate or compete, you will laugh until your sides hurt. 🤣

The Ascent

The Ascent drops you into a cyberpunk world called Veles. It is a top-down twin-stick shooter with RPG elements, and it is chaotic in the best way. The story is not groundbreaking, but the combat and weapon variety carry the experience. I played it with a friend, and the co-op made the difficulty spikes feel fair. If you miss twin-stick shooters, this is a quality pick.

Lego Marvel Superheroes 2

Lego Marvel Superheroes 2 is a reliable split-screen action-adventure. It covers a huge swath of Marvel lore, and the Lego humor keeps things light. The main story takes around 13 hours, and the complete edition includes all downloadable content. I enjoy it most when I play with someone who loves Marvel, because every new character unlocks a small celebration.

Quick Comparison

Game	Genre	Local Players
Halo Infinite	Shooter	Up to 4 (Arena)
SpiderHeck	Party	Up to 4
Unravel Two	Puzzle Platformer	2
Escape Academy	Puzzle	2
Rayman Legends	Platformer	Up to 4
Divinity: Original Sin 2	RPG	2
Nobody Saves the World	Action RPG	2
Totally Accurate Battle Simulator	Strategy	2
The Ascent	Twin-Stick Shooter	2
Lego Marvel Superheroes 2	Action-Adventure	2

Final Thoughts

In 2026, split-screen gaming is not dead; it just requires a little searching. I keep these games installed because they turn an ordinary evening into a shared event. Some are free, some are on Game Pass, and some are older titles that still shine. If you have an Xbox One or an Xbox Series X/S, pick one, hand over a controller, and enjoy the couch co-op magic. 🎮