 The game includes a two @-@ player cooperative mode . Two players can use the same console with a split screen , or can use a separate computer or console ; Microsoft Windows , Mac OS X , and PlayStation 3 users can play with each other regardless of platform ; a patch provided in late 2012 added split @-@ screen support for Windows and Mac OS X users under " Big Picture " mode . Both player @-@ characters are robots that control separate portal guns and can use the other character 's portals . Each player 's portals are of a different color scheme , whereof one is blue and purple and the other is orange and red . A calibration chamber separates the characters to teach the players to use the communication tools and portals . Most later chambers are less structured and require players to use both sets of portals for laser or funnel redirection , launches , and other maneuvers . The game provides voice communication between players , and online players can temporarily enter a split @-@ screen view to help coordinate actions . Players can " ping " to draw the other player 's attention to walls or objects , start countdown timers for synchronized actions , and perform joint gestures such as waving or hugging . The game tracks which chambers each player has completed and allows players to replay chambers they have completed with new partners . 
