Requirements:
Step 1 – Clean Installation Ensure your game is updated. Disable any overlays (Steam overlay, Discord) that might conflict with input hooks.
Step 2 – Download and Extract the Mod
Download the split screen fix. You should see files like dinput8.dll, split_screen.ini, and possibly a modified re5dx9.exe.
Step 3 – Install the Mod
Copy the extracted files into your Resident Evil 5 installation folder (e.g., C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Resident Evil 5). Overwrite if asked.
Step 4 – Configure the .ini File
Open split_screen.ini. Key settings for "exclusive" mode: Requirements:
SplitScreenMode = 1 (0=horizontal, 1=vertical)
ControllerID_P2 = 0 (auto-detects second controller)
KeepMouseForP1 = 1 (THIS IS THE EXCLUSIVE FLAG)
ForceRawInput = 1
Step 5 – Launch and Assign Inputs Launch the game via the modified executable. At the title screen, press Start on your controller to join as Player 2. Player 1 will automatically default to keyboard/mouse. Do not press any keys on the keyboard during controller assignment to avoid conflicts.
Step 6 – Adjust Resolution and FPS For the best split-screen experience, set your monitor’s resolution to 16:9 (1920x1080 or 2560x1440). Vertical split is often preferred for widescreen monitors. Lock FPS to 60 to avoid physics glitches.
This setup offers the best of both worlds:
This hybrid setup solves the common couch-co-op argument where one player refuses to play because they "can't aim with a stick" or "hate keyboard controls." Step 1 – Clean Installation Ensure your game is updated
The phrase "keyboard and controller exclusive" highlights a unique advantage of the PC version. While the console versions strictly require two controllers to play local co-op, the modded PC version allows for a hybrid input method. This is perfect for gamers who want to play with a friend or partner but only own a single gamepad.
This setup creates an asymmetrical but fully functional experience where Player One utilizes the precision of a mouse and keyboard, while Player Two relaxes on the couch with a controller.
Most console split-screen games force both players to use identical control schemes (e.g., two controllers). The PC mod, however, enables heterogeneous input. Here is what "exclusive" means in this context:
Why is this exclusive? Because no official version of Resident Evil 5—not on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, or even the remastered versions—allows you to mix input methods in local co-op. This is a PC-only feature, unlocked by the modding community. Step 5 – Launch and Assign Inputs Launch
Yes, but only for specific situations:
If you try this and the controller isn’t recognized for Player 2, check these issues:
A critical limitation: The mod does not allow Player 2 to use a keyboard. The second player must use a controller. Furthermore, the game cannot handle two keyboards or a keyboard for P2. Why? RE5’s engine natively supports only one keyboard input device. The mod hijacks the second controller slot.
Therefore, an "exclusive" controller for P2 is not a choice – it is a requirement.