FAQ
The questions everyone asks before their first night on the couch.
Does Virtual Couch provide games?
No. You bring your own game files. Virtual Couch does not host, sell, or distribute game content of any kind — see how we handle your games and the Copyright / Disclaimer page.
Does my friend need the game file?
No. The host runs the game; the guest receives the stream and sends controller input. Only one copy of the game is ever involved, and it never leaves the host's browser.
Do I need to install anything?
No — the MVP is browser-based. A modern browser and a controller (or keyboard) is the whole setup, for host and guest alike.
Do we need accounts?
Yes — a free account is how friends find you on the couch. You get a friend code like VC-NAME-1234, and guests need an account to take a seat. New accounts start with an empty couch: no fake history, ever.
Why does connection quality matter?
Because the guest's controller input has to reach the host, and the resulting game frame has to travel back. That round trip is what you feel as responsiveness. Couch Network measures your real link and grades it 🟢 / 🟡 / 🔴 before you start — and red never blocks you from playing.
Does every game work?
No. Virtual Couch focuses on games with local multiplayer, and maintains a VC Tested compatibility guide of titles we've manually played end-to-end. If a game was built for one screen and two controllers, it's a candidate.
Can I use a controller?
Yes — supported browsers can detect compatible gamepads, and the first button press maps your controller for the session. Keyboard support is also available.
Still curious? Take a seat.
Or contact us — we answer.