The best split-screen racing game depends on your console and how many people are racing on the same screen. For an easy four-player session on Nintendo Switch, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the clearest fit. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is another kart-racing option with local play on several platforms. PlayStation players who want real-world cars can consider Gran Turismo 7, but its split-screen mode has reported restrictions that matter if you expect a full four-player grid.
Best split-screen racing games at a glance
| Game | Best fit | Local play confirmed in the sources | Important caveat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mario Kart 8 Deluxe | Switch groups looking for approachable kart racing | Up to four players in same-console split-screen in TV or tabletop mode; up to eight players via local wireless, according to Nintendo. | Offline play requires a compatible controller for each player. Local wireless is a separate mode and requires one software copy per player. |
| Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds | Groups looking for a current kart racer across supported platforms | SEGA lists local play for one to four players; PlayStation specifies up to four-player split-screen. | Store descriptions vary in detail, so check the listing and edition for your console. |
| Gran Turismo 7 | PlayStation players who prefer real cars and simulation-oriented driving | The official product page advertises local “4P Split Screen.” | Traxion’s 2026 coverage reports a two-player head-to-head mode with a restricted car selection; confirm the current mode if player count is decisive. |
| DiRT 5 | Groups interested in off-road racing | Traxion describes four-player split-screen and career play with up to three other players. | Check current availability and the exact edition on your platform. |
| Horizon Chase 2 | Groups who want arcade-style racing | Traxion reports up to four-player split-screen. | Check your platform’s current listing and local-play details before buying. |
Which game should you choose?
For four players on one Nintendo Switch: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Nintendo confirms that Mario Kart 8 Deluxe supports up to four players in offline split-screen when the Switch is in TV or tabletop mode. Each player needs a compatible controller, so check your available controllers before planning a full group session. Nintendo’s support instructions say offline multiplayer is not available in Handheld Mode.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
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| 1 |
![Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/517O3bI45YL._SL160_.jpg)
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Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code] | $59.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Non-US Version) | $57.20 | Buy on Amazon |
Do not confuse same-console split-screen with local wireless: Nintendo lists up to eight players for local wireless, but that is a different setup, with one software copy required per player. The game’s official page also states: “If you’re playing in TV mode or tabletop mode, up to four players can enjoy split-screen multiplayer!” (Nintendo).
For a multi-platform kart racer: Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds
SEGA lists local play for one to four players and online play for up to 12 on its official game page. Those are separate player counts: the online figure does not describe how many people can race together on one screen. PlayStation lists up to four-player split-screen, while the Xbox store identifies local split-screen in Grand Prix and Race Park. Check your platform’s current product listing for the mode details that apply to your version.
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- Hit the road with the definitive version of Mario Kart 8 and play anytime, anywhere! Race your friends or battle them in a revised battle mode on new and returning battle courses
- Play locally in up to 4-player multiplayer in 1080p while playing in TV Mode. Every track from the Wii U version, including DLC, makes a glorious return
- Plus, the Inklings appear as all-new guest characters, along with returning favorites, such as King Boo, Dry Bones, and Bowser Jr.
- Players can choose a new Smart Steering feature which makes driving and staying on the track easy for novice players and kids even at 200cc
For real-car racing on PlayStation: Gran Turismo 7—with a caveat
Gran Turismo 7 is the shortlist choice for players drawn to real cars and a more simulation-oriented driving style. Its official product page advertises local “4P Split Screen,” but recent Traxion reporting describes the practical mode as two-player head-to-head, with a limited set of selectable cars. Traxion reported 13 selectable cars in 2026; that is an editorially reported figure, not a publisher specification. The difference between the official headline and the reported mode details makes it especially important to verify the current setup if you need more than two local players.
For off-road or arcade alternatives: DiRT 5 and Horizon Chase 2
Traxion’s 2026 roundup describes DiRT 5 as supporting four-player split-screen, including career play with up to three other players. It also reports up to four-player split-screen for Horizon Chase 2. These are useful alternatives when off-road racing or a more arcade-oriented feel matters more than the strongest first-party documentation in this shortlist; verify current platform availability and local modes before purchase.
Check these details before setting up a race
- Same screen or separate systems? Split-screen means players share one console and display. Local wireless connects multiple systems nearby; online multiplayer connects over the internet. Their player counts and setup requirements are not interchangeable.
- How many people are playing locally? Confirm the same-console limit, not just a game’s online or wireless maximum.
- Which platform and edition? Availability and mode descriptions may vary by console or store listing; confirm the version you plan to use.
- Are there enough controllers? For Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offline multiplayer, Nintendo specifies one compatible controller per player.
How to start local multiplayer in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Nintendo’s support guide covers local and online setup. For same-console split-screen, use TV or tabletop mode and start the game’s multiplayer flow:
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- Nuevos personajes: Inkling, Rey Boo, Huesitos y Bowsy
- Inclusi n de circuitos in ditos en el modo batalla
- Los pilotos cuentan con el volante inteligente, que ayuda a no salirse de la pista
- Hasta 8 pilotos en partidas de multijugador local
- Connect or pair a compatible controller for each player who will race.
- Launch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and choose Multiplayer from the main menu.
- Select the number of players sharing the console, then choose the race mode and settings.
- Have each player join with their controller and proceed to character and vehicle selection.
For Nintendo’s complete instructions and distinctions between local and online options, see How to Start a Local or Online Multiplayer Game.
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Choose Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for documented four-player same-console racing on Switch, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds for a multi-platform kart option, or Gran Turismo 7 if real-car driving is the priority and its reported split-screen limits suit your group. For off-road or arcade alternatives, check DiRT 5 and Horizon Chase 2 against your platform’s current listings.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
