Is Black Ops 3 Zombies Split-Screen on PC? A Deep Dive
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The short answer is: Yes, Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 (BO3) does support split-screen for Zombies mode on PC. However, the implementation and intricacies of setting it up might not be immediately obvious, causing confusion among players. This article will delve into the specifics of how to play Black Ops 3 Zombies in split-screen on PC, addressing common issues and offering a comprehensive guide. It’s crucial to understand the nuances to fully enjoy the cooperative zombie-slaying experience with your friends locally.
Understanding Black Ops 3 Split-Screen on PC
While many associate split-screen gaming with consoles, Black Ops 3 on PC does offer local split-screen functionality, and this extends to the popular Zombies mode. The ability to play locally with friends elevates the experience, turning a tense survival mode into a collaborative challenge. It’s a feature many fans appreciate, allowing for shared moments of strategy and camaraderie without the need for multiple PCs or online connections.
Setting Up Split-Screen Zombies on PC
The process for enabling split-screen can sometimes be a bit finicky, requiring specific steps to get working correctly:
- Launch the Game: Start Call of Duty: Black Ops III on your PC.
- Connect a Second Controller: After the game has launched, plug in a second controller. Ensure it is recognized by your PC.
- Activate Split-Screen: Navigate to the main menu. You will find a button that says “Activate Split Screen” near your player name using your mouse. Click on this option. The second player now has to use their controller to press a button to join.
- Select Zombies Mode: Once both controllers are active, select the Zombies mode.
It’s vital to note that the second controller needs to be connected after the game has launched. Failing to do this can cause the controller not to be recognized or for the split screen to fail to activate.
Common Issues and Solutions
While the steps above should generally work, some players have reported issues with setting up split-screen. Here are a few common problems and their solutions:
- Second Controller Not Detected: If your second controller isn’t recognized, try unplugging and replugging it. Make sure your drivers are up to date. Also, ensure that it’s a controller that’s compatible with Windows.
- Split-Screen Button Not Appearing: If the “Activate Split-Screen” button isn’t showing, verify that the second controller is properly connected and detected by Windows.
- Gameplay Issues: If you experience gameplay problems in split screen, go into settings, find controller or gamepad settings and play around with different options. Save changes after each try.
Co-op Beyond Zombies: Other Split-Screen Options in Black Ops 3
It’s also worth noting that Black Ops 3’s campaign is also available in split-screen, allowing two players to experience the story locally. This adds to the replayability and overall fun of the game. Furthermore, the Multiplayer mode also supports local split-screen, so players can jump into competitive matches with a friend on the same screen.
Limitations to Be Aware Of
While Black Ops 3 split-screen on PC is a great feature, it has a few limitations:
- No 4-Player Split-Screen: Unlike console versions which could offer 4 player offline, on PC you are limited to a maximum of two players in split-screen.
- Shared Classes: Player two will start with the class of player one. Any changes made by player two will not impact player one, but it’s vital to understand that the classes and settings are not separate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the intricacies of Black Ops 3 split-screen on PC:
1. Can you play Black Ops 3 Zombies split-screen online on PC?
No. Split-screen is for local play only on PC. Online split-screen is not supported on the PC version of Black Ops 3.
2. Does Black Ops 3 split-screen have 4 players on PC?
No, Black Ops 3 on PC only supports 2-player split-screen. 4 player split-screen is not an option in any of the game modes.
3. Can you play Black Ops 3 campaign in split-screen on PC?
Yes, the campaign supports 2-player split-screen on PC, allowing for a co-operative story experience.
4. Can you play Black Ops 3 multiplayer in split-screen on PC?
Yes, the multiplayer mode also supports 2-player split-screen locally on PC.
5. What controllers are compatible with Black Ops 3 split-screen on PC?
Generally, any Windows-compatible controllers will work. Common controllers like Xbox and PlayStation controllers are fully compatible.
6. Do both players need to have separate Steam accounts to play split-screen?
No, both players do not need separate Steam accounts for local split-screen. The feature is designed to play on a single machine with two controllers.
7. Why does my second controller not work for Black Ops 3 on PC?
Make sure you plug in the controller after the game launches. It’s a common issue that the controller doesn’t get properly detected if connected beforehand.
8. Can you play Black Ops 3 zombies split-screen offline on PC?
Yes, you can play split-screen Zombies offline with a friend on the same PC.
9. Is there a way to fix the Black Ops 3 split-screen if it’s glitching on PC?
Navigate to the game’s settings menu, go to ‘controller’ or ‘gamepad’ settings, and try to play with any of the split-screen options available. If that doesn’t work, ensure your graphics drivers are up to date.
10. Does split-screen cause performance issues on PC?
Split-screen can be more demanding on your system than single-player mode. If you experience performance issues, lower your graphics settings.
11. Does Black Ops 3 multiplayer have bots in split-screen on PC?
You can add bots to a split screen session in multiplayer mode.
12. Can player two change the classes in Black Ops 3 split screen?
Player 2 will start with player 1’s class but can change it. These changes will only apply to player two. Any changes from player two will not impact player one’s loadout.
13. Can you use keyboard and mouse while another player uses a controller in split-screen on PC?
Yes, one player can use a keyboard and mouse, and the other can use a controller.
14. Can I adjust individual controller settings for each player?
No, controller settings will apply to both players in split-screen. The game does not allow independent settings for each.
15. Is Black Ops 3 plutonium split screen compatible?
No, the method that plutonium is set up prevents the possibility of split screen.
Final Thoughts
Black Ops 3 split-screen on PC is a valuable feature that allows players to experience the Zombies, Campaign, and Multiplayer modes together on a single PC. While the setup may require a few specific steps and has limitations, it provides hours of cooperative gameplay and local fun. By understanding these nuances and the answers to the above FAQs, players can enjoy a smooth and engaging split-screen experience.