Does Black Ops 2 Have Split Screen? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 absolutely features split-screen capabilities, allowing you to enjoy the game with friends on the same console. This feature extends to various game modes, offering plenty of options for cooperative or competitive play. Whether you’re looking to tackle the Zombies horde, jump into a multiplayer match, or experience a portion of the campaign, Black Ops 2 provides ample split-screen fun. However, the availability and player count vary depending on the specific game mode. This article will delve into all the details regarding split-screen in Black Ops 2, including how to set it up and what to expect.
Split-Screen Options in Black Ops 2
Multiplayer Split Screen
Black Ops 2 allows for split-screen multiplayer action, letting you compete against or alongside your friends in the classic Call of Duty experience. Up to four players can participate in local multiplayer matches on a single console, meaning you can create a truly social gaming experience in your living room. Simply connect additional controllers and follow the on-screen prompts to get started. This feature is perfect for casual get-togethers or intense local tournaments.
Zombies Split Screen
For many fans, the Zombies mode is a staple of the Black Ops series, and fortunately, Black Ops 2 doesn’t disappoint. You can team up with up to three other players locally on the same console, totaling four players in the fight against the undead. This four-player split-screen mode lets you and your friends strategize, coordinate, and survive the onslaught of zombies together, making it one of the most exciting ways to enjoy Black Ops 2.
Campaign Split Screen
While the campaign in Black Ops 2 is not designed for full cooperative gameplay, a two-player split-screen option is available for local play. While you won’t experience the entire narrative in co-op, you can engage in specific campaign missions together. This feature allows friends to experience a portion of the Black Ops 2 story while working side-by-side. You can usually access this option via the Local section of the multiplayer menu. Simply press the prompt on the second controller when prompted to join the action.
How to Set Up Split Screen
Setting up split-screen in Black Ops 2 is relatively straightforward. Here’s a general guide:
- Connect Additional Controllers: Ensure that all controllers are properly connected to your console. On Xbox, you may need to connect controllers wirelessly or via USB.
- Launch the Game: Start Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 on your console.
- Navigate to the Multiplayer Menu: From the main menu, select the Multiplayer option.
- Select Local Play: Navigate to and choose the Local option.
- Join with Additional Controllers: Turn on any additional controllers, sign into a profile if you are not already, and press the designated button when prompted to join.
- Select Game Mode: Choose your desired game mode, whether it’s multiplayer, zombies, or a mission from the campaign.
- Start the Game: Begin your split-screen session and enjoy!
Platform Considerations
While split-screen is a notable feature, the experience can vary slightly across different platforms. Generally speaking:
- Consoles (Xbox 360, PS3): The game supports split-screen play, with up to four players in Zombies and Multiplayer modes. The Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions do not support 4-player split-screen, but support the other types, such as campaign co-op for 2 players.
- PC: The original PC version of Black Ops 2 does not officially support split-screen. However, there are community-created tools such as Nucleus Coop, that enable split-screen on PC for up to four players on the local network. These solutions are not officially supported by the game developer. This does not include the version of the game on the Plutonium platform which does not support split-screen either.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Black Ops 2 Split Screen
1. How many players can play Black Ops 2 split-screen?
Up to four players can play split-screen in both Multiplayer and Zombies modes. The campaign supports two-player split-screen for specific missions.
2. Can I play Black Ops 2 campaign in split screen?
Yes, you can play parts of the campaign in two-player split-screen locally.
3. Is Black Ops 2 split screen on PC?
The original PC version of Black Ops 2 does not officially support split-screen. However, there are community-created tools such as Nucleus Coop, that enable split-screen on PC for up to four players on the local network. These are not officially supported. This does not include the version of the game on the Plutonium platform which does not support split-screen either.
4. Can you play 4-player split screen on Black Ops 2 Zombies?
Yes, Black Ops 2 Zombies supports up to four players in local split-screen.
5. How do I start split-screen on Black Ops 2?
Navigate to the Multiplayer menu, select Local, and then press the designated button on your additional controllers to join the game.
6. Does Black Ops 2 require Xbox Live or PlayStation Plus for local split screen?
No, for local split-screen, you do not need an Xbox Live Gold or PlayStation Plus subscription. These are only required for online play.
7. Does Black Ops 2 split screen work online?
To play split-screen online, you will need an Xbox Live Gold or PlayStation Plus subscription.
8. Is the split screen horizontal or vertical?
The split-screen in Black Ops 2 is generally horizontal meaning the screens are stacked on top of one another.
9. Can you play split-screen in other Call of Duty games?
Many Call of Duty titles feature split-screen, including Call of Duty 2, Call of Duty 3, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Call of Duty: World at War, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, Call of Duty: Black Ops, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, Call of Duty: Black Ops II, Call of Duty: Ghosts, Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, Call of Duty: Black Ops III, and more recent games, albeit with varying player counts.
10. Does Black Ops 2 Zombies have local multiplayer?
Yes, Black Ops 2 Zombies supports local split-screen multiplayer with up to four players.
11. Does split-screen affect performance in Black Ops 2?
Playing split-screen can sometimes affect the performance of the game, especially with more players. This is due to the increased demand on console resources.
12. Are there any differences between console versions regarding split screen?
Generally, the split-screen functionality is similar across both Xbox 360 and PS3, though exact performance may vary slightly.
13. Can I use a mouse and keyboard in split-screen on console?
Typically, consoles do not support mouse and keyboard input for split-screen play. You’ll need to use game controllers.
14. How is the split screen in Black Ops 2 compared to other games?
Many consider the split-screen implementation in Black Ops 2 to be very good, particularly with the four-player Zombies mode. It provides a great local multiplayer experience, which is one of the reasons for the game’s popularity.
15. Is split-screen still a popular feature?
While online play has grown exponentially, many players still value the local split-screen experience for social gaming. Black Ops 2 is often praised for its robust split-screen implementation, making it a popular choice among friends playing together.
Conclusion
Black Ops 2 remains a favorite among Call of Duty fans, partially due to its excellent split-screen capabilities. The ability to team up with friends locally in Zombies mode, compete in local Multiplayer matches, or experience sections of the Campaign together adds considerable value to the game. So, gather your friends, connect those extra controllers, and get ready to enjoy the action-packed split-screen experience that Black Ops 2 provides.