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PS5 Co-Op Frustrations Mount | Are Players Ready to Give Up Local Multiplayer?

By

Kylie Moon

Feb 12, 2026, 01:38 PM

Edited By

Emily Johnson

Updated

Feb 13, 2026, 08:15 PM

2 minutes of duration

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A growing skepticism surrounds PS5's local co-op features as many gamers voice disappointment with split-screen capabilities. Players express nostalgia for past systems while questioning if modern advancements justify the decline in multiplayer experiences.

The Nostalgic Glance Back

Many players are recalling the glory days of split-screen play on older consoles like the PS2 and PS3. One user commented, "Playing Bomberman Ultra with a group of 6 people was so fun." The fondness for past experiences is palpable, with one player vividly recalling browsing menus for hours as a kid, feeling like they were living in the future.

Debates on Controller Capabilities

Recent discussions have revealed mixed opinions about the DualSense controller's functionality. "The 5th controller would light up 1 and 4," said a player, shedding light on the issues surrounding multiple controller connections. Some gamers are frustrated with Sony's strategy of limiting controllers, arguing that the "PS3 and Xbox generation was such a great time to believe" in split-screen options.

In contrast, many have expressed regret that current titles do not support couch co-op adequately, raising the question: is there still a market for local multiplayer? Comments suggest the limitations on PS5 controllers hinder the possibility of reviving this feature, unlike the Switch, which can accommodate up to 8 players in some games.

Exploring Cross-Platform Capabilities

Interestingly, a player pointed out that the DualSense can be paired with up to four devices, enhancing convenience for gamers who switch between systems. However, this still leaves the community longing for experiences reminiscent of their past, particularly the camaraderie that local multiplayer used to provide.

Sentiment Analysis in the Community

  • 🔹 Nostalgia Strong: Players reminiscing about multiplayer experiences from older consoles.

  • 🔸 Controller Limitations: Frustration around the availability and functionality of controllers for co-op play.

  • 🔹 Comparison with Competitors: Discussions about how other systems like the Switch allow more flexible options for multiplayer games.

"People don’t play together in the same room anymore. They only play together virtually." - An insight into the shifting gaming culture.

Key Community Takeaways

  • 🔸 Controller Support Lacking: Many lament the limitations on PS5 controller connections for local play.

  • 🔺 Nostalgia's Grip: Frequent reflections on past gaming experiences highlight a community yearning for more split-screen games.

  • 🔹 Desire for Change: Users express hopes that Sony will consider expanding multiplayer options in future updates.

The ongoing dialogue emphasizes a divide between advancing technology and the cherished communal experiences many players miss. As the gaming landscape evolves, will developers heed the call for more multilayered local play options?