- Minecraft on Nintendo Switch supports split-screen play only in TV mode.
- You need to have the Bedrock Edition and a minimum 720p display.
- Up to four controllers can be connected for multiplayer gaming.
- Split-screen play is possible locally and online with an active subscription.

Minecraft is a game that has delighted millions of players around the world thanks to its endless possibilities. Among the most interesting options it offers is the possibility of playing in split screen, a feature that allows you to share the experience with friends on the same console. However, setting up this option on Nintendo Switch can raise some questions.
If you have a Nintendo Switch and want to enjoy Minecraft with another person on the same screen, in this article we explain how to do it. Step by step how to set up split screen, requirements that you must comply with and some tips to improve the gaming experience.
Requirements for playing split-screen in Minecraft
Before you start playing with another person on the same screen, it is important to make sure you comply with the following: requirements:
Supported Minecraft versions
The split screen option is only available in the versions of comfort of Minecraft. In the case of the Nintendo Switch, it is necessary to have installed the edition known as Minecraft Bedrock Edition, which is the current version and supports cross-platform play. For more details on the different versions of Minecraft, visit this link.
If you try to play on the PC version or other older editions, such as the Legacy Edition, you will not be able to activate split screen.
Minimum TV resolution
Another essential aspect is the resolution of the screen you are going to play on. For the split-screen option to work correctly on Nintendo Switch, the console must be connected to a screen with a minimum resolution of 720pIf you're playing in handheld mode, this option won't be available. Make sure to check your TV to make sure it meets this requirement.
To ensure that the settings are correct, check the console settings and synchronizes the video output with the resolution of your TV.
Additional controls
To play split screen you need to have at least two controlsThe Nintendo Switch allows you to use the Joy-Con as a single controller or split them into two individual controllers, though you can also use other compatible controllers for added convenience. For a guide on how to connect controllers, you can check out this article.
How to play split-screen in Minecraft on Nintendo Switch
If you meet the requirements above, follow these steps to enable split screen and play with another person on the same console:
Play split screen in local mode
To play split-screen without an internet connection, follow these steps:
- Open Minecraft on your Nintendo Switch and log in to your account.
- Select option To play from the main menu.
- Choose an existing world or create a new one.
- Before loading the world, make sure that the option Multiplayer is disabled for local play.
- Connect the second controller to the console. If you're using Joy-Con, separate them and set each one up as a separate controller.
- The game will detect the second controller and display a message telling you which button to press to have the second player join the game.
- Select the user profile for the second player and once inside, the screen will automatically split.
- If you want, you can connect up to four controllers and play with up to four people on the same screen.
Play split-screen in online mode
If you want to play split-screen while playing online with other players, you need to follow these steps:
- Make sure both players have an active subscription to Nintendo Switch Online.
- Launch Minecraft and log in with your main account.
- Select an existing world or create a new one.
- Before loading the world, check the option Online game.
- Connect the second controller and select the second player profile.
- The second player will join the world and the screen will automatically split.
- You can now play split-screen while connecting with other friends online.
Tips to improve the split-screen experience
Playing split-screen can be a very fun experience, but it can also present some drawbacks related to performance and visibility. Here are some tips to improve the experience:
- Use a large screen: If you're playing on a small TV, split-screen can cause game elements to appear smaller, making gameplay difficult. For a guide on how to split-screen on different devices, visit this link.
- Adjust video settings: From Minecraft settings, you can modify the render distance and other graphics parameters to improve performance.
- Avoid very large worlds or those with many effects: If you experience performance drops, try playing in less complex worlds.
Playing Minecraft split-screen on Nintendo Switch is a great way to share the fun with friends or family. By following the proper steps and meeting the requirements, you can enjoy this experience without any hassle. While there may be some limitations, such as performance or visibility on small screens, with the right settings, you can get the most out of the game with others.