Cracking the Code: Unleashing 4-Player Split-Screen Mayhem on Black Ops 3 (Xbox)

So, you want to relive the glory days of couch co-op with four of your buddies on Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 for Xbox? You’ve come to the right place. While officially, the game only supports two-player split-screen online in Multiplayer or Zombies, and up to four players in local Multiplayer, there’s a well-known “glitch” or workaround that allows you to achieve 4-player split-screen Zombies, bringing back the nostalgic fun of battling hordes together on one screen.

Here’s the breakdown of how to (unofficially) get it done:

1. Ensure Everyone Has a Profile: Make sure all four players have their own Xbox Live profiles signed in on the console. This is crucial for the game to recognize each player.

2. Start Black Ops 3: Launch Call of Duty: Black Ops III on your Xbox.

3. Navigate to Zombies: From the main menu, select “Zombies.”

4. Initiate Split Screen with Two Players: Connect two controllers and follow the on-screen prompts to add the second player via split-screen. Typically, this involves pressing “A” on the second controller to sign in and then again to join the lobby. You should now have player 1 and player 2 on split-screen.

5. The “Glitch” Trigger: This is where things get a little less straightforward. There’s no single, guaranteed method, but here are common approaches:

   • Rapid Controller Switching: With the game recognizing two players in split-screen, quickly connect the third controller and mash the “A” button. Immediately after, connect the fourth controller and do the same. The game might register the additional inputs during the split-second window it’s processing the first two players.

   • Order Matters: Try connecting the controllers in a specific order (e.g., 1-3-2-4 or 1-4-2-3) while mashing the “A” button on each.

   • Timing is Key: Experiment with the timing of pressing “A” on the third and fourth controllers relative to the confirmation of the first two players. Try pressing “A” just before the game confirms the split-screen for players one and two.

6. Persistence Pays Off: The unfortunate truth is that this method often requires multiple attempts. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t work on the first try. Keep experimenting with the controller connection order and the timing of pressing “A.”

7. If Successful: If the glitch works, you should see all four players listed in the lobby, each occupying a quarter of the screen.

8. Select Map and Start Game: Once all four players are recognized, choose your desired Zombies map and start the game.

Important Considerations:

• Not Officially Supported: Keep in mind that this method is essentially exploiting a glitch. As such, it may not always work, and Activision could potentially patch it out in future updates (though this is unlikely at this point).

• Performance: Running four-player split-screen can be demanding on the Xbox, particularly on older models. Expect a potential drop in frame rate, especially during intense zombie hordes.

• Screen Real Estate: Playing on a smaller screen can make it challenging to see what’s happening with four players crammed onto one display. A larger TV is highly recommended for the best experience.

This technique is based on community findings and shared experiences. Since it’s not an officially supported feature, success depends on the game version and potentially the Xbox console model. Remember that gaming also has great value for learning and building up important social skills! See more on that on GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About 4-Player Split-Screen on Black Ops 3 (Xbox)

Is 4-player split-screen Zombies officially supported on Black Ops 3 for Xbox?

No. Officially, Black Ops 3 supports up to two players in split-screen for online Zombies on Xbox. To get four player zombies, you’ll need to use the unofficial method described above.

Does this “glitch” work on all Xbox consoles?

It has been reported to work on various Xbox consoles, including the Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X. However, your mileage may vary depending on the console model and the specific version of the game.

Can I get banned for using this “glitch”?

It’s highly unlikely. This “glitch” doesn’t involve hacking or modifying the game files in any way. You’re simply exploiting a potential oversight in the controller input recognition. Activision has generally been lenient towards these types of harmless glitches in the past.

What’s the best way to connect the controllers? Wired or wireless?

Both wired and wireless controllers should work. However, some players have reported better success rates with wired controllers due to their potentially more consistent connection.

Does this work for Black Ops 3 multiplayer?

While the primary focus of this glitch is 4-player split-screen Zombies, some players have reported limited success in getting it to work for local multiplayer. The process is similar, but even less reliable than the Zombies method.

I’ve tried multiple times, and it’s not working. What am I doing wrong?

Unfortunately, there’s no definitive answer. The “glitch” is finicky and unpredictable. Ensure all profiles are logged in correctly and play around with timing, and different controller connection sequences. If that doesn’t work, try restarting your Xbox, this has helped some players in the past.

Will this work for the campaign mode?

No, this “glitch” is primarily reported to work for Zombies and, less reliably, for local multiplayer. The campaign mode typically enforces its own player limits.

Does this work on PlayStation?

While the general concept is similar, the button prompts and controller connection procedures may differ slightly on PlayStation. Search online forums for PlayStation-specific guides.

Does this “glitch” work on PC?

On PC, Black Ops 3 natively supports up to 4-player local split-screen for both Zombies and Multiplayer. There is no need to use a “glitch” or a workaround.

Does this work with mods enabled?

Enabling mods might interfere with the glitch. It’s recommended to attempt the 4-player split-screen without any mods enabled first. Once you have 4-player split-screen enabled, you can then try enabling any mods.

Will my online stats be affected by playing split-screen?

No. When playing split-screen, stats are generally tied to the individual profiles signed in on each controller. Your online stats should remain unaffected.

Is there a better way to do this?

Unfortunately, no. This is the only workaround available to enable four-player split-screen on Xbox. This is why it is referred to as a “glitch”.

What controller settings affect this glitch?

This glitch is not affected by controller settings.

Is there any indication that this feature will become official?

No, unfortunately this is unlikely. Black Ops 3 is an older title and will likely not receive any new features or updates.

Does this glitch work for other games?

No, the glitch is specific to Black Ops 3. The game is registering multiple controllers in a way it isn’t intended to, so there is no guarantee that the technique will work for any other game.