If you plan on diving into Halo: Campaign Evolved’s split-screen co-op mode on PlayStation 5 when it launches next month, be prepared for a surprise: both players will need active PlayStation Plus subscriptions. This requirement was confirmed by Halo Studios during a recent Q&A on Halo Waypoint, which addressed many of the questions surrounding the upcoming story-driven remake. The game was initially announced for PC, Xbox Series X | S, and PlayStation 5 in October 2025, but the split-screen rules on PS5 have sparked mixed reactions.
The breakdown of requirements varies depending on the platform. For example, players on Xbox Series X | S or PC only need a Microsoft account and a valid Xbox Gamertag to enable cross-play and cross-platform progression. However, PlayStation 5 users face stricter conditions. According to Halo Studios, both players must have active PlayStation Plus subscriptions and be linked to a Microsoft account. This also grants access to online co-op, even if the game is being played locally.
This means that if you and a friend are sitting side by side on the couch, ready to relive the co-op experience of the original Halo: Combat Evolved, both of you will need to maintain a PlayStation Plus subscription — despite the fact that the game is being played locally. Normally, PlayStation Plus is required for online multiplayer, but not for offline or free-to-play titles. This requirement has left many fans puzzled, especially given the game’s legacy as a beloved co-op experience.
For comparison, players on Xbox Series X | S only need a unique Microsoft account for split-screen, while online co-op requires an active Xbox Game Pass subscription. Meanwhile, PC players on Steam only need to link to a Microsoft account. This disparity in requirements has led to confusion and frustration among PlayStation users, particularly those who expected the split-screen feature to be available without extra cost.
The decision to require PlayStation Plus for split-screen co-op feels particularly odd, given that the original Halo: Combat Evolved allowed for local co-op without any additional fees. Online reactions have been largely negative, with many fans expressing disappointment. One user on X/Twitter called the requirement “next level insanity,” while another joked that the original Halo from 2001 is “laughing” at the situation. These comments reflect the sentiment of many who feel the game’s accessibility has been unnecessarily restricted on the PS5.
Despite the controversy, Halo: Campaign Evolved promises to bring the classic sci-fi narrative to modern devices. While the game supports up to four players online, the split-screen feature — a staple of the original — seems to come with extra hurdles for PS5 players. With a release date set for July 28, 2026, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X | S, fans are left wondering if the added cost will be worth it for the co-op experience.
PlayStation Plus offers three tiers: Essential ($10.99/month), Extra ($16.99/month), and Premium ($19.99/month). Prices for the service were raised in May, adding to the frustration of users who feel the cost is unjustified for a feature that was once free. IGN has reached out to Sony for further clarification on the requirements, but for now, the rules remain in place.
Some fans have already reconsidered their purchase decisions, with one Reddit user stating they would no longer buy the game day one. Others are questioning the necessity of paying for an additional subscription to play with someone on the same couch. As the release date approaches, the debate over accessibility and value will likely continue to grow.
