If you've ever visited the PlayStation Store or looked for a game for a group, you've probably come across the abbreviations P2 and P3. What do they mean? This is not a console version or a technical parameter.

P2 and P3 are a designation of the number of players:

• P2 - game for two

• P3 - game for three

But there is an important nuance: not every game is marked P2 allows you to play together on the same console, and some modes require separate accounts and subscriptions.

In this guide we will look at:

• what P2 and P3 mean;

• what multiplayer formats are there;

• how not make a mistake when buying a game.

What are P2 and P3 in the context of PlayStation

P2 is two players at the same time.

P3 is three players at the same time.

Such designations are often found in product cards and descriptions of games for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.

It is important to understand: the designation does not indicate the method of connecting players.

Options There are different ones:

• Local co-op (Couch Co-op)

• Split-screen

• Online co-op

• Combined mode

Brief comparison of modes

Why is it important to know this before buying

Typical mistake of newbies:

You buy a game marked P2, and then it turns out that the second player needs:

• own console;

• separate copy of the game;

• PS Plus subscription.

Before purchasing, always check the type of multiplayer.

P2 modes

1. Local multiplayer (Couch Co-op)

The players are in front of one screen.

How it works

1. The first player logs into the profile.

2. The second connects the gamepad.

3. Selects a guest profile or account.

4. The game automatically connects a second player.

What you need

Best games for local P2

✅ If you play on the same couch, look for the “local co-op” or “split screen” marks.

2. Online co-op

Each player plays on his own console.

What is required

Popular games

⚠️ If it is simply written “P2” - check whether this is a local mode or online.

3. Combined mode

Example:

• 2 players locally

• 2 more via the Internet

Games with combined mode

P3: how to play with three players

Games with P3 support are less common.

P3 on one console

Online P3

The most popular games for P2 / P3

💡 Mandatory for P3 check the restrictions on the number of gamepads.

Console compatibility

Cross-Play

Allows you to play together on different platforms.

Games with Cross-Play

Cross-Gen

Allows owners of PS4 and PS5 to play together.

Conditions:

• same version of the game;

• developer support;

• transfer of saves via cloud.

How to buy a game on P2 or P3

Step 1. Determine the format

Answer the questions:

1. Is everyone playing nearby?

2. Are there the required number of gamepads?

3. Is there PS Plus?

Step 2. Check the game card

Look for wording:

• Local co-op

• Split-screen

• Play online

• 1-2 players on one console

Step 3. Check with the seller

If there is not enough information, check the multiplayer format.

Step 4. Check accounts

For local games, you can use a guest profile.

FAQ

Do I need PS Plus for P2?

No, if the game is local.

Can I play with a digital copy?

Yes.

Do I need a second copy games?

Is there a difference between P2 on PS4 and PS5?

Almost no.

What to do if the second gamepad does not connect?

1. Enable the PS button.

2. Check Controllers.

3. Restart the game.

4. Check the wireless connection.

Conclusion

P2 and P3 are the key parameters for choosing a game.

Main rule:

Do not focus only on the labeling - always check the multiplayer format.

Local co-op and online play require completely different conditions.

Gather friends, choose the right games and get the most out of your PlayStation 🎮