Does Dead by Daylight Have Split-Screen?
The short and direct answer is: No, Dead by Daylight does not have split-screen functionality. This means you cannot play the game locally with friends on the same console or PC using a shared screen. While the concept of couch co-op is appealing, especially for a multiplayer game, Dead by Daylight’s core design does not incorporate this feature. This article will delve into why this is the case, explore alternative ways to play with friends, and address some common questions players have regarding split-screen and other multiplayer options.
Why No Split-Screen in Dead by Daylight?
The primary reason Dead by Daylight lacks split-screen support lies in its asymmetrical gameplay. The game pits a single killer against four survivors, each with a unique perspective and set of objectives. Implementing split-screen would severely limit the field of view for each player, hindering their ability to monitor their surroundings effectively. For survivors, the need to scan for the killer and navigate the map would become incredibly difficult with a reduced screen area. Similarly, the killer’s role relies on having a clear and expansive view of the environment to track survivors, placing them at a significant disadvantage with split-screen.
Furthermore, the immersive horror experience is also compromised when playing split-screen. The suspense and tension that build up when you’re alone against the killer are difficult to replicate when multiple players are using a single screen. The shared visual experience can reduce the fear factor significantly, moving it away from the developers’ intention of creating a nerve-wracking atmosphere.
Finally, developing and maintaining split-screen functionality can be technically challenging, especially on older consoles. It requires significant optimization to ensure the game runs smoothly without compromising the graphics or performance. The developers at Behaviour Interactive have focused their resources on refining the core online multiplayer experience and providing consistent updates rather than adding local split-screen.
Playing with Friends: Online Multiplayer
While split-screen isn’t an option, Dead by Daylight offers a robust online multiplayer experience where you can play with friends. This is the primary way to team up with others. The game supports cross-play, allowing players on different platforms (PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch) to play together.
Here’s how to play Dead by Daylight with friends online:
- Friend Invites: Open the in-game friends tab, and then add your friends using their usernames.
- Lobby Creation: Once added, you can invite them to your lobby.
- Matchmaking: When all players are ready, you can queue up for a match.
- Crossplay: The crossplay feature should automatically enable when you install the game, so friends on different platforms can be grouped.
This online system is designed to be seamless, letting you quickly jump into matches with your chosen team.
“Kill Your Friends” Mode: Private Matches
Dead by Daylight also includes a “Kill Your Friends” (KYF) mode. This allows you to create private matches where you can play with a chosen group of friends against each other. You can play with just 2 players in this mode if you and a friend want to have some head-to-head matches. While this doesn’t eliminate the need for individual consoles and screens, it provides a tailored multiplayer experience for smaller groups. It’s a fun way to practice and play matches with your specific friends, though keep in mind that progress is not tracked in these matches.
Other Games with Split-Screen and Co-Op
If split-screen gaming is a priority for you and your friends, there are many other great games that offer this feature. Titles like Minecraft (on consoles), Gears 5 (Campaign on PC), and Rocket League support local split-screen. These games can provide that shared, local gaming experience you might be looking for.
Many popular co-op games offer a fantastic online experience, often allowing you to play together even if you can’t be on the same couch. Examples of these include The Forest which lacks split-screen but has co-op online and Far Cry 5 and Far Cry 6 that have online coop, but no split-screen.
Dead by Daylight: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about Dead by Daylight and its multiplayer capabilities.
1. Can you play Dead by Daylight on the same console with two players?
No, Dead by Daylight does not support split-screen or any form of local co-op play on the same console. Players must use their own separate devices and copies of the game to play together online.
2. How many players can play Dead by Daylight online?
Dead by Daylight is designed for 5 players. One player takes on the role of the Killer, and the other four players play as Survivors.
3. Is there local co-op in Dead by Daylight?
No, there is no local co-op mode available in Dead by Daylight. The game solely focuses on online multiplayer.
4. Can two people play Dead by Daylight with only two controllers?
Unfortunately, no, two players cannot play on one console with two controllers. Each player needs their own device, copy of the game, and account.
5. Is Dead by Daylight cross-platform?
Yes, Dead by Daylight offers cross-play between PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. Players on different platforms can play together online.
6. What is “Kill Your Friends” mode in Dead by Daylight?
Kill Your Friends (KYF) is a private match mode in Dead by Daylight. This lets you create private matches with friends, and customize game rules.
7. Can you play KYF with just two people?
Yes, you can play KYF mode with just two players. This lets you enjoy private matches against each other, though the game experience is different from traditional matches with 5 players.
8. Why doesn’t Dead by Daylight have split-screen?
Split-screen functionality would compromise the gameplay and the experience for players. The game is designed for each player to have a full, unobstructed view of the environment.
9. Does Dead by Daylight have single-player mode?
Dead by Daylight has a Tutorial mode which can be played alone for new users, but it doesn’t offer a true, traditional single-player story mode. The game is heavily focused on online multiplayer.
10. Is there any official statement about split-screen coming to Dead by Daylight?
To date, there has been no official indication from the developers that they will add split-screen in the future. Their focus remains on improving the core online multiplayer experience.
11. Can you play split-screen on the PS4, PS5, or Xbox consoles?
No, Dead by Daylight does not support split-screen on any platform, including PS4, PS5, or Xbox consoles.
12. Are there any technical limitations to adding split-screen to Dead by Daylight?
Yes, implementing split-screen requires considerable resources and optimization. It would also require significant changes to the game’s user interface and graphics rendering.
13. What alternative games have split-screen options?
Several games like Minecraft, Gears 5 (Campaign on PC), Rocket League, and many other titles support local split-screen. These are good alternatives if you’re seeking that type of gameplay experience.
14. How do I play Dead by Daylight online with friends?
You can play with friends by adding them to your friends list in the game, then inviting them to your lobby before queuing for an online match. Crossplay ensures that you can play with your friends even if you’re on different platforms.
15. Does Dead by Daylight have cross-progression?
Yes, Dead by Daylight offers cross-progression for the various platforms. This allows you to carry your character progression with you across different platforms.
Conclusion
While the absence of split-screen in Dead by Daylight may be disappointing for some players, it’s important to understand the reasons behind this decision. The game prioritizes its core online multiplayer experience, focusing on creating a tense and immersive horror environment. Fortunately, the game’s robust online features and “Kill Your Friends” mode provide ample opportunity to enjoy Dead by Daylight with friends, regardless of location. With crossplay included, it’s never been easier to play with friends on various platforms. For those specifically seeking local co-op, exploring other titles with split-screen options might be the better choice.