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Published: May 7, 2025
Split-screen multiplayer was once the beating heart of couch gaming, but the rise of online lobbies has made it a rare treasure. There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline of racing side-by-side with someone in the same room—trash talk, shoulder bumps, and all. Thankfully, the 2025–2026 lineup of racing games proves that local split-screen is far from dead.
We’ve dug through the latest releases, upcoming titles, and classic gems to bring you the definitive ranking of the 10 best split-screen racing games for local multiplayer. Whether you’re on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, or Nintendo Switch 2, these games deliver the thrill of shared-screen competition.
Before we dive into the top 10, a few titles deserve a shout-out. The Switch 2’s design screams local multiplayer, and Mario Kart World is the obvious headliner—but don’t sleep on Kirby Air Riders and the futuristic Fast Fusion, both offering chaotic split-screen action. Motorcycle fans can go head-to-head in MotoGP 26, while rally purists can chase ghost cars in WRC Generations (a workaround for EA Sports WRC’s lack of local split-screen). Horizon Chase 2 serves pure arcade fun for up to four players, and Hot Wheels Infinite Rush (launching September 2025) promises open-world split-screen for up to four. Rocket League remains a wildcard, letting four players share a screen for car-football mayhem.
Polyphony Digital’s flagship sim racer surprised many by including split-screen at all. Two players can race head-to-head on any of the 40+ circuits, but the mode feels tacked on. You’re limited to only 13 cars across performance classes—from the Ford Mustang GT to the Subaru WRX Gr.B Rally Car—and AI opponents are absent. The view is also cramped by black bars top and bottom, likely to maintain performance. Still, for a quick session with real-world tracks, it’s a decent option—once you’ve completed the first nine Menu Books in single-player. Exclusive update: A recent patch (v1.45) improved frame pacing in split-screen, but the car roster remains unchanged.
If you want off-road mayhem with friends, DIRT 5 is the king of local multiplayer. Up to four players can tear through gravel, mud, and ice in split-screen, using everything from rally cars to buggies. The game’s vibrant, over-the-top presentation creates a party vibe that’s perfect for couch sessions. What sets it apart: you can play the entire career mode in split-screen, with every player earning XP and currency. That’s a rare feature in 2025, and it makes DIRT 5 a must-have for group racers.
Sony’s anti-gravity racing series may be dormant, but this compilation remains a masterpiece. Bundling WipEout HD, Fury, and 2048, it runs at a smooth 60fps even in two-player split-screen, with 4K visuals on PS5. The blistering speed and tight controls demand lightning reflexes, and the wide selection of ships and tracks keeps sessions fresh. It’s the gold standard for futuristic local multiplayer racing—and backward compatibility makes it easy to play on modern hardware.
For motorcycle fans, Ride 6 offers the deepest two-wheeled split-screen experience. With hundreds of licensed bikes from BMW, Ducati, and Honda, plus a mix of real and fictional circuits, it’s like Gran Turismo for bikes. Split-screen was added post-launch, allowing two players to race head-to-head. Compared to the more simulation-focused MotoGP 26, Ride 6 is more accessible and boasts more content. Pro tip: The 2025 “Legends” DLC adds 12 classic bikes that work in split-screen.
Codemasters’ Formula 1 series brought split-screen back in F1 2020, and F1 25 refines it further. Two players can race on any official circuit, with full car setup and weather options. The 2025 edition introduces a new “Head-to-Head” championship
