Great news for adventurers on Xbox Series S! Over a year after its initial console debut, the critically acclaimed RPG Baldur's Gate 3 is finally receiving the long-awaited split-screen multiplayer feature on the Xbox Series S platform. This significant addition comes as part of the game's massive eighth major update, Patch 8, which is packed with a plethora of new content and improvements. For Series S players, this marks the first time they can experience the epic journey through the Forgotten Realms side-by-side with a friend on the same couch, a feature that was previously exclusive to online play or available only on more powerful hardware due to earlier optimization challenges cited by developer Larian Studios.

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What To Expect From Split-Screen on Xbox Series S 🎮

The arrival of local cooperative gameplay is a game-changer for the Xbox Series S community. Here’s a breakdown of how it works and what makes it special:

  • Seamless Joining Process: The first player loads or starts a new game. The second player simply connects a controller and presses the A button to join. After the host grants permission, the joining player goes through character creation and appears in the party.

  • Dynamic World Exploration: One of the most praised aspects of BG3's split-screen is the freedom it offers. Players can roam the map independently, potentially tackling completely different side quests simultaneously. This non-linear approach to co-op is a standout feature.

  • Interactive Dialogue: Each player can listen in and participate in the other's conversations by pressing LT, selecting the other player's portrait, and pressing A.

  • Flexible Party Management: Control of companion characters can be swapped between players via the Multiplayer section of the pause menu. If one player needs to leave, their character can be dismissed just like any other party member.

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Patch 8: A Treasure Trove of New Content ✨

While split-screen co-op is the headline for Xbox Series S owners, Patch 8 is a monumental update for all platforms. It's much more than a single feature fix.

Major Additions Include:

  1. 12 New Subclasses: Dramatically expands character customization and build diversity, offering fresh ways to experience classes like Fighter, Wizard, and Cleric.

  2. Full Cross-Platform Play: Unites the community across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, allowing friends to adventure together regardless of their chosen platform.

  3. Photo Mode: Lets players capture stunning screenshots of their adventures, their party, and the beautiful, dangerous world of Faerûn.

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Accessing the Update & The Road Ahead 🛣️

As of now, the features of Patch 8, including the Series S split-screen, are available through a limited playtest for members of the Xbox Insider Hub. This allows Larian to stress-test servers, particularly for the new crossplay functionality. The full, official release of Patch 8 to all players does not yet have a confirmed date, but its arrival is imminent.

The inclusion of split-screen on the Series S was a welcome surprise for the community and addresses one of the last major disparities between the Xbox console versions. It underscores Larian Studios' continued commitment to supporting and enhancing the game for all its players, even years after its initial launch. For Xbox Series S duos, the wait is finally over—get ready to share a controller and forge your legend together in one of the greatest RPGs of the modern era! 🏆

Quick Facts About Baldur's Gate 3 ℹ️

Feature Detail
Release Date August 3, 2023 (PC)
Developer/Publisher Larian Studios
ESRB Rating M for Mature
Multiplayer Online Co-Op, Local Co-Op (Now on all platforms)
Cross-Platform Play ✅ Full support across PC, PS5, Xbox Series X
Critic Reception Metascore: 96

This update solidifies Baldur's Gate 3's position as a continuously evolving and community-focused title, proving that even in 2026, its adventures are far from over. Whether you're a veteran returning for a new subclass run or a Series S player diving into local co-op for the first time, Patch 8 offers a compelling reason to return to the Forgotten Realms.