Diving Deep: Which Call of Duty Games Let You Slay Zombies in 4-Player Split Screen?

The burning question for any group of friends looking for some undead slaying action on a single console: Which Call of Duty games let you play Zombies in 4-player split screen? Unfortunately, the answer is a bit limited. While many Call of Duty titles offer the beloved Zombies mode, very few support 4-player split screen, and usually only in local play. Let’s break down the contenders and the caveats.

The most prominent title that allows 4-player split screen Zombies is Call of Duty: Black Ops III, but only in its local multiplayer mode. This means everyone needs to be physically present in the same room, playing on the same console. Online 4-player split screen is not an option for Black Ops III.

It’s important to emphasize that split screen capabilities have varied significantly across Call of Duty titles and even across different platforms within the same title. For example, what’s available on PlayStation 4 may not be the same as on Xbox 360. Let’s dive deeper into the nuances and explore other games with co-op zombie modes.

Understanding Split Screen Limitations

Local vs. Online Play

The key differentiator is local (offline) versus online play. When discussing 4-player split screen, it’s almost always referring to local play. The processing power required to render four separate viewpoints, handle online connectivity, and manage game logic simultaneously can be taxing, which leads developers to restrict split screen capabilities, especially online.

Console Generations

Another critical factor is the console generation. Older consoles like the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 generally have more limited split-screen support compared to their successors, the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One (and later, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S). Often, older generation consoles either lack split-screen entirely or support only two players.

Specific Game Titles and Their Zombies Modes

Here’s a rundown of some popular Call of Duty titles and their Zombies split-screen capabilities:

• Call of Duty: Black Ops III: As mentioned, this is a prime contender for local 4-player split screen in Zombies mode on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.

• Call of Duty: Black Ops and Modern Warfare 3: These older titles usually support up to two players in online split-screen, meaning only one additional player can join the game on the same console.

• Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare: While the Zombie Co-op mode supports four players online, it only allows for two split-screen players per console whether playing online or locally.

• Call of Duty: Black Ops 4: While it supports split screen across multiplayer, Zombies, and Blackout modes, it is generally only for two players.

• Call of Duty: Cold War: Split screen is supported on consoles but typically limited to two players.

• Call of Duty: WWII: Supports two-player local co-op in Nazi Zombies mode, and combo co-op for up to four people.

• Call of Duty: Vanguard: Features a Zombies mode for up to four players, but split screen functionality is often limited to two players.

Alternative Zombie Experiences: Beyond Call of Duty

If 4-player split-screen Zombies is a must-have feature and you’re finding the Call of Duty options limited, consider exploring other zombie-themed games that prioritize this type of local co-op gameplay.

• Zombie Army 4: Dead War: This game offers a robust co-op experience, but unfortunately lacks split-screen. It’s an excellent online/LAN alternative.
• World War Z: While a popular zombie shooter, it doesn’t support split-screen, requiring online play for co-op.

It’s always best to check specific game reviews and online forums for the most up-to-date information on split screen capabilities, as updates and patches can sometimes alter these features.

Exploring the mechanics of gameplay, learning and interaction is beneficial when deciding which game best fits your needs. Learn more at the GamesLearningSociety.org website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which Call of Duty game is best for 4-player split screen Zombies?

   Call of Duty: Black Ops III on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One is generally considered the best option for local 4-player split screen Zombies.

2. Can you play 4-player split screen Zombies online in Black Ops III?

   No, Black Ops III does not support 4-player split screen Zombies online. The 4-player split screen is limited to local play.

3. Does Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 have 4-player split screen Zombies?

   While Black Ops 4 supports split screen in various modes, it is generally limited to two players per console.

4. Is split screen functionality the same across all consoles for Call of Duty games?

   No, split screen capabilities can vary significantly between different consoles, even for the same Call of Duty title. Always check specific details for your console.

5. Does Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered have split screen?

   Yes, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered supports two-player split-screen online play in Multiplayer game modes. It does not have Zombies mode.

6. Can you play split screen in Call of Duty: Cold War Zombies?

   Yes, Cold War supports split screen Zombies on consoles, but typically limited to two players.

7. What does “local play” mean in the context of split screen?

   “Local play” means that all players are physically in the same location, playing on the same console, without the need for an internet connection.

8. Are there any non-Call of Duty games with 4-player split screen zombie modes?

   While not directly a “zombie mode,” some cooperative games like Left 4 Dead (on PC with mods) can be modified to accommodate split-screen play, but this requires technical know-how and may not be officially supported.

9. Why is 4-player split screen less common in modern Call of Duty games?

   The primary reason is the increased graphical demands of modern games. Rendering four separate viewpoints simultaneously requires significant processing power, potentially impacting performance.

10. Does Call of Duty: WWII have split screen Zombies?

    Yes, Call of Duty: WWII supports two-player local co-op in Nazi Zombies mode, as well as combo co-op for up to four people.

11. What is “combo co-op”?

    “Combo co-op” usually refers to a setup where multiple players are playing split-screen locally, and then connecting online to play with other players.

12. How can I find out if a specific Call of Duty game has split screen Zombies?

    The best way is to consult the game’s manual, read online reviews, or check official Call of Duty forums for confirmation.

13. Are there any tricks to improve split screen performance in Call of Duty games?

    Closing unnecessary applications, reducing graphical settings, and ensuring your console is well-ventilated can sometimes help improve split-screen performance.

14. Do any PC versions of Call of Duty games support split screen Zombies?

    PC versions of Call of Duty games generally do not officially support split screen, as PC gaming is typically geared towards individual players. Mods might offer limited functionality, but it’s not a standard feature.

15. Is there a way to play older Call of Duty games with 4-player split screen Zombies on modern consoles?

    Backward compatibility might allow you to play older Call of Duty titles with 4-player split-screen Zombies (if they supported it originally) on newer consoles, but it depends on whether the game is compatible and whether the console supports the feature.

These FAQs should provide a clearer understanding of the complexities surrounding 4-player split screen Zombies in Call of Duty and offer alternative solutions for enjoying cooperative zombie slaying experiences. Always remember to verify the capabilities of specific games and consoles before making a purchase or planning a game night!