Black Ops 6 has split screen for campaign and local multiplayer, but not for online modes

Black Ops 6 supports split screen in campaign mode and local multiplayer matches, but you cannot play split screen in online multiplayer against other players. If you want to play the campaign with a friend on the same couch, or run local matches on your console, split screen works. If you want to join online matches together from one screen, that is not possible in this game.

The split screen feature divides your screen horizontally, giving each player their own view. This works on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. The feature requires two controllers connected to the same console.

Key Takeaways

  • Split screen works in campaign mode and local multiplayer, but not in online multiplayer against other players.
  • You need two controllers plugged into the same console to use split screen on any mode.
  • Split screen is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S.
  • Online multiplayer requires each player to have their own console and internet connection.

How to set up split screen in campaign mode

Start the campaign from the main menu and select your difficulty. When the first mission loads, press the button to add a second player — this varies by console. On PlayStation 5, hold the Options button on the second controller. On Xbox, hold the Menu button on the second controller. The second player will join the mission immediately.

Both players see the same portion of the map split between the top and bottom of the screen. The split adjusts as you move, so if one player moves far ahead, the screen may shift to keep both players visible. You can play through the entire campaign this way, though some cutscenes will show both players on screen rather than in split view.

If the second player leaves, press the same button again to remove them. You can add and remove players between missions without restarting the game.

Local multiplayer split screen matches

Local multiplayer lets you play against each other or against AI-controlled bots on the same console. Go to Multiplayer from the main menu, then select Local Match. Choose your game mode — Team Deathmatch, Domination, Search and Destroy, or others — and set the number of players and bots.

The game splits the screen between all local players. With two players, you each get half the screen. With more players, the screen divides further. You can adjust the difficulty of the AI bots and the match length before starting.

Local multiplayer is useful for practicing, playing with friends without internet, or just having a match on your couch without needing multiple consoles. All players use controllers connected to the same console.

Why online multiplayer does not have split screen

Online multiplayer requires each player to have their own account and their own internet connection. The game's servers match you with other players across the network, and split screen would require the console to send two separate player streams to the server at once. Most online games do not support this because it creates technical problems with how the server tracks each player's position and actions.

Split screen also creates an unfair advantage in competitive matches — two players on the same screen can see more of the map than players on separate screens, and they can communicate instantly without any delay. For these reasons, online multiplayer is designed for one player per console.

What you need for split screen

You need two controllers connected to the same console. Both controllers must be paired with your console before you start the game. If you are using a second controller for the first time, go to your console's settings and pair it as a new controller.

For campaign mode, both players can use the same account or different accounts — the game does not require the second player to have their own profile. For local multiplayer, you may need to sign in the second player depending on your console settings, but this is usually optional.

You do not need PlayStation Plus, Xbox Game Pass, or any online subscription to play split screen campaign or local multiplayer. These modes work entirely on your console without connecting to the internet.

Split screen performance and screen size

Split screen divides your display between two players, so each player sees a smaller portion of the screen than they would alone. On a smaller TV, this can make it harder to see details or spot enemies at a distance. On a larger TV, split screen is more comfortable to play on.

The frame rate and graphics quality remain the same in split screen as they do in single-player mode. The console does not reduce visual quality to support two players. However, some players report that split screen can occasionally cause slight stuttering during very intense moments with many enemies on screen at once, though this is rare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play split screen campaign online with a friend on another console?

No. Split screen only works on one console with two controllers. To play campaign with a friend on another console, you would need to each have your own console and internet connection, but Black Ops 6 campaign does not support online co-op play.

Does split screen work on PC?

Black Ops 6 on PC does not support split screen in any mode. Split screen is only available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. PC players must use one controller per player and separate accounts.

Can I play split screen Zombies mode?

Yes. Zombies mode supports split screen on the same console with two controllers, similar to campaign mode. Both players see the same map split between the top and bottom of the screen.

What happens if one player leaves during a split screen match?

In campaign, the second player simply leaves and you continue alone. In local multiplayer, the match ends if you remove a player mid-game. You can start a new match with just one player, or add more players before starting a fresh match.

Do I need two copies of the game for split screen?

No. One copy of Black Ops 6 on your console supports split screen for up to four local players. Each player uses a controller connected to the same console.