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How to Play Split-Screen on Black Ops 3: A Comprehensive Guide

Playing split-screen on Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 (BO3) is a fantastic way to enjoy the game with friends and family locally. Here’s a straightforward guide: Simply connect a second controller to your console, turn it on, and when prompted in the lobby, have the second player press the designated button (usually X on PlayStation or A on Xbox) to join the game. Once connected, you can enjoy various game modes together.

Getting Started with Split-Screen on Black Ops 3

BO3 is a classic Call of Duty title known for its fast-paced gameplay, Zombies mode, and compelling multiplayer. Enjoying it with a friend on the same screen amplifies the fun. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of how to set up and play split-screen:

1. Console Compatibility and Requirements

Split-screen functionality is available on the PlayStation 4 (PS4) and Xbox One versions of Black Ops 3. Ensure you have one of these consoles. You’ll also need:

Two controllers: Make sure they are fully functional and charged.
A copy of Call of Duty: Black Ops 3: The game must be installed on your console.
A stable display: Connect your console to a TV or monitor.
Sufficient space: Playing split-screen, especially in Zombies mode, requires the TV screen to be reasonably sized.

2. Connecting the Second Controller

This is the simplest step, but crucial:

Turn on your console (PS4 or Xbox One).
Navigate to the Black Ops 3 game from the main menu.
Turn on the second controller. For PS4, it’s the PlayStation button; for Xbox One, it’s the Xbox button.
Allow the console to recognize the second controller. You might need to sign in to a separate PlayStation Network (PSN) or Xbox Live account for the second player.

3. Initiating Split-Screen in the Game

Once the second controller is connected and signed in (if necessary):

Launch Black Ops 3.
Navigate to the desired game mode. Split-screen is supported in Multiplayer, Zombies, and Custom Games. The Campaign mode does not support split-screen.
In the pre-game lobby or main menu, you should see a prompt indicating how to add the second player. This usually says something like “Press X to Join (PS4)” or “Press A to Join (Xbox One)”.
The second player should press the designated button on their controller.
The screen will then split, and both players can customize their classes or characters before starting the game.

4. Gameplay Considerations

Playing split-screen introduces certain considerations:

Screen Size: The screen is divided, reducing the visible area for each player.
Performance: While BO3 is well-optimized, split-screen can slightly impact performance, especially on older consoles. Expect minor frame rate drops in intense situations.
Communication: Local communication is a plus, but be mindful of game sound leaking to the other player.
Visual Clarity: Consider adjusting the game’s brightness and contrast settings to improve visibility on the split screen.

Choosing Your Game Mode for Split-Screen

Black Ops 3 offers a variety of game modes perfect for split-screen play:

Multiplayer

Multiplayer is the heart of Call of Duty. Split-screen allows you to team up or compete against each other in various modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, and more.

Benefits: Competitive fun, quick matches, opportunities for teamwork.
Considerations: Screen peeking can be an issue.

Zombies

The cooperative Zombies mode is a split-screen favorite. Survive waves of undead, unlock secrets, and uncover the narrative.

Benefits: Cooperative gameplay, shared goals, strategic depth.
Considerations: Requires teamwork and communication.

Custom Games

Custom Games let you tailor the experience to your preferences. Modify rules, maps, and weapon restrictions for a truly unique split-screen experience.

Benefits: High level of customization, experimentation with different settings.
Considerations: Requires time to set up the game to your liking.

Troubleshooting Split-Screen Issues

Sometimes, split-screen doesn’t work as expected. Here are some common problems and solutions:

Controller Not Recognized: Ensure the controller is charged and properly connected. Try restarting the console or re-syncing the controller.
Second Player Can’t Join: Make sure the second player is signed into a separate PSN or Xbox Live account. The game might require separate profiles.
Performance Issues: Close other applications on your console. Consider lowering the game’s graphics settings, if available (though BO3 offers limited graphical adjustments on consoles).
Split-Screen Option Missing: Ensure you’re in a game mode that supports split-screen (Multiplayer, Zombies, or Custom Games). The Campaign does not offer this option.

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

Here are 15 commonly asked questions about playing split-screen on Black Ops 3, answered to help you maximize your local multiplayer experience:

1. Can you play split-screen on Black Ops 3 campaign mode?

No, the Campaign mode in Black Ops 3 does not support split-screen. Split-screen functionality is limited to Multiplayer, Zombies, and Custom Games.

2. Do both players need PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold to play split-screen online?

No, only the primary account (the one that purchased the game or has the active subscription) needs PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold to play online in split-screen. The second player can play online using the primary account’s subscription.

3. How many players can play split-screen on Black Ops 3?

Black Ops 3 supports a maximum of two players in split-screen mode on both PS4 and Xbox One.

4. Can you play split-screen in Zombies mode online?

Yes, you can play split-screen in Zombies mode online. As with multiplayer, only the primary account needs an active subscription.

5. Does split-screen affect the game’s performance?

Yes, playing split-screen can impact performance, especially on older consoles. You might experience slightly reduced frame rates due to the game rendering two separate viewpoints simultaneously.

6. How do you adjust the screen orientation in split-screen?

Unfortunately, Black Ops 3 does not offer an option to adjust the screen orientation in split-screen. The game automatically splits the screen horizontally.

7. Why is the split-screen option not showing up?

Ensure you are in a game mode that supports split-screen. Also, make sure the second controller is properly connected and signed in. Restarting the game can sometimes resolve this issue.

8. Can you use different controllers in split-screen?

Yes, you can use different types of compatible controllers (e.g., one standard controller and one specialized controller) as long as they are both recognized by the console.

9. Does split-screen work on all maps in Black Ops 3?

Yes, split-screen should work on all maps available in the supported game modes (Multiplayer, Zombies, and Custom Games).

10. Can you play split-screen with players on other consoles?

No, Black Ops 3 does not support cross-platform play. Split-screen is limited to local multiplayer on the same console.

11. How do you resolve audio issues in split-screen?

Ensure that the audio settings are correctly configured. Adjust the volume levels for both controllers and the TV. Using headsets can also improve the audio experience.

12. Is there a way to disable split-screen temporarily?

To temporarily disable split-screen, the second player simply needs to disconnect or sign out from their controller. The game will revert to single-player mode.

13. Does split-screen affect the progress or unlocks for each player?

Yes, progress and unlocks are generally tracked individually for each player in split-screen. Each player will earn XP, unlock weapons, and complete challenges based on their own performance.

14. Are there any graphical settings that can be adjusted to improve split-screen performance?

While Black Ops 3 doesn’t offer extensive graphical settings on consoles, ensure your console’s video output settings are optimized. Try adjusting the TV’s picture mode for better clarity.

15. What’s the best way to avoid screen peeking in split-screen?

To minimize screen peeking, try positioning the TV so that each player has a limited view of the other player’s screen. Using a divider or playing in separate rooms (if possible) can also help. A mutual agreement of “no screen peeking” is also a good starting point!

Enjoying Black Ops 3 in split-screen is a fantastic way to experience the game’s thrills with friends and family. By following these guidelines and troubleshooting tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable local multiplayer experience.

How to play split-screen on bo3?