Sonic Racing Crossworlds: Can local split-screen players join an online lobby together, or is it offline-only split-screen?

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If you’re hoping to race couch co-op and jump into online lobbies together, here’s the short version:
✅ Yes — local split-screen is supported and players on the same console can go online in most cases.
⚠️ However: there are platform- and lobby-type caveats (guest accounts, number of local players, etc.) that matter.

Why this matters:
When you’ve got friends or family on the couch and others online, you need to know whether everyone can race together — not just offline or limited to same-console. Choosing the right platform and knowing the rules avoids disappointment at race time.

Supported configurations by platform

PS5 / Xbox Series X|S

On PS5: the official PlayStation page says you can “gather with friends and play local split-screen … or compete online against a community of players” on the same console.
On Xbox: the Xbox store page lists “Shared/split screen” + “Online multiplayer (2-12)” under capabilities.
Max local players per console: Up to 4 local players (varies by mode) according to multiple sources.
Controller/log-in requirements: Each local player likely needs to be signed in (either separate profile or guest account depending on platform). Specific guest-vs-profile rules not fully detailed yet.

PS4 / Xbox One

Although these platforms are supported for the game, split-screen + online may have more limitations (older hardware, fewer resources). Official documentation emphasises newer consoles for “optimized” performance.
Max local players: Up to 4 as above (general note).
Controller/log-in requirements: Standard console rules apply (PSN/Xbox Live account or guest where allowed).

Nintendo Switch

The NintendoEverything article says: “Play with up to 4 players offline split-screen …” and for online: “up to 11 other players online in custom lobbies.”
But it doesn’t clearly state if those 4 local players can also join the online lobby together. This is a gap.
Max local players: 4 local players supported offline.
Controller/log-in requirements: Switch profiles or guest accounts – typical Switch rules apply.

PC (Steam / Epic)

The Steam store description notes: “Gather with friends and play local split-screen in Grand Prix and the new party mode Race Park, compete … around the world with up to 12 players online.”
Max local players: Likely 2-4 (varies by mode and PC hardware).
Controller/log-in requirements: Local accounts or guest profiles depend on Steam/Epic; players usually share the same machine.

Step-by-step: Start couch co-op and hop into online

On your console/PC, ensure the game is installed and updated.
Launch Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds and select a mode that supports local split-screen (e.g., Grand Prix or Race Park).
Connect controllers for each local player and have each player either sign into their profile or select guest/second profile as allowed by your system.
In settings, enable online play for the session.
Choose the online mode/lobby you want (e.g., Custom Match, Friend Match, Online Global).
Invite both local players and any online friends into the same lobby. Local players will share the console, online friends connect separately.
Check performance/connection icon and start the race.
Important: On the Switch open-network test, local split-screen multiplayer was not supported, which means the final game may have conditions too.

Performance and stability tips in split-screen

Frame-rate modes & visual settings

If you’re racing with two or more local players + online opponents, consider choosing the lower resolution or performance mode (if available) for smoother FPS.
On older consoles (PS4/Xbox One) you may experience more lag or input delay when combining split-screen + online.

Camera / UI settings

Local players share the same screen real-estate — adjusting HUD size, splitting arrangement (horizontal/vertical) may help visibility.
If online lobby includes cross-gen players, hosts may need to pick “region” or “matchmaking pool” to avoid high ping.

Network / connection tips

If local + online → ensure your internet upload speed is sufficient, and wired connection is preferred over WiFi when possible.
If lag is noticeable, consider switching to a private friend lobby with fewer players, or remove cross-platform matches to reduce latency.

FAQs

How many local players can go online together?
Generally up to 4 local players (on consoles/PC) can join an online lobby together, but this may vary by mode and platform.
Do guests need PSN/Xbox accounts?
Depends on platform: On PS5/Xbox, guests may join via guest profile but certain features (online invites, parties) may require separate PSN/Xbox Live accounts.
Is voice chat supported for both local players?
Yes — the base online functionality supports chat, but local players might share a headset/mic input or use separate audio arrangements.
Does split-screen reduce online FPS?
Yes — combining local split + online play increases system load, increasing possibility of reduced FPS, longer loading times, or higher ping especially on older consoles.
Are private online lobbies available with guests?
Yes — modes like “Friend Match,” “Custom Lobby” allow private settings where local players + invited online friends can race together.

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