Account up.
Update: Microsoft has acknowledged it made an error in its original Q&A. PlayStation Plus is not required for split-screen play on PS5.
“We incorrectly stated that PlayStation Plus is required for local co-op splitscreen play,” Microsoft said in a correction. “Local splitscreen co-op requires a PlayStation account for each player but does not require a PlayStation Plus account.”
Original story: Halo Campaign Evolved on PS5 will require a Microsoft account to play, and even a PlayStation Plus subscription for each player that plans to play in local split-screen action.
“Just as you do today for Halo: The Master Chief Collection and Halo Infinite to ensure smooth cross-platform progression, to play Halo: Campaign Evolved you will need a Microsoft account and Xbox Gamertag, regardless of the platform(s) you play on,” Microsoft said in a new Q&A. This enables both cross-platform play and cross-platform progression.”
While that’s fine enough — cross-platform progression means those who choose to play on both Xbox and PS5 can take advantage of dual Achievement and Trophy unlocks — it’s another requirement that seems questionable.
“If you’re playing split-screen on PlayStation 5, both accounts will need to have PlayStation Plus and be linked to a Microsoft account,” the company continued without any further clarification as to why. “Having these active PlayStation Plus subscriptions will also provide access to online co-op play.”
Again, the need for a subscription service like PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass on console makes sense when playing online with those in different homes than your own — but why the need for such a service when playing split-screen in the same place?
Those playing on Steam will need a Microsoft account to play.
We’ve reached out to Microsoft for further comment on the matter.
Halo Campaign Evolved is available from 23 July on Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, and PS5. We recently previewed it here.
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