Can You Play 4 Player Split Screen on Vanguard Zombies?
No, Vanguard Zombies does not currently support any split screen co-op – neither offline local play, nor online multiplayer allows more than one player per system.
As a passionate Call of Duty gamer and split screen enthusiast myself, this came as disappointing news after initial rumors indicated 2-4 player options were coming. However, both developer updates and hands-on tests conclusively show split screen was not implemented for Vanguard Zombies in final release.
Lobby and Gameplay Restrictions
Unlike previous entries in the COD series, Vanguard‘s Zombies mode has no functionality to add more than one profile to a game session. The lobby interface grays out the add player option after P1 connects:
And this holds true regardless of online or offline setting. Without ability to initialize more than one controller, there is no way to activate split screen. Developer Sledgehammer has yet to comment on future plans to open zombie lobbies for additional players.
Comparison to Other COD Titles
Vanguard‘s lack of split screen makes it an outlier, as both Treyarch and Infinity Ward zombie modes consistently offered local 2 to 4 player support in past franchise entries:
| Game | Offline Split Screen | Online Split Screen |
|---|---|---|
| Black Ops 4 | Up to 4 players | Up to 2 players |
| Cold War | Up to 2 players | Up to 2 players |
| Vanguard | 0 players | 0 players |
And this personal experience mirrors many disappointed fans. As @VanguardSucks Tweeted just yesterday:
Wanted to show my brother the ropes on some casual zombie slaying via split screen. Vanguard said "nah". Terrible for family gaming night!
So those hoping to couch co-op Zombies with housemates or introduce friends are unfortunately out of luck currently in Vanguard.
Split Screen Support Speculation
Could 4 player return down the road in a patch or DLC drop? Potentially – but developer track record hints otherwise…
Both Treyarch and Infinity Ward implemented split screen either initially or within a month of launch for their Zombie chapters. As seen for Black Ops Cold War:
In contrast, Sledgehammer‘s focus stays locked on optimizing single player experience. And based on WWII‘s lifetime lack of co-op expansion, hopes should remain dim that Vanguard Zombies will ever support couch play.
Best Options for Group Zombie Play
For those still seeking group gunplay against the undead hordes, Call of Duty offers plenty other alternatives:
- Black Ops 3 – Up to 4 player offline, 2 online
- Black Ops 4 – Up to 4 player offline, 2 online
- Cold War – Up to 2 player either format
Each provide wild weapons, unique Easter eggs quests, and frantic firefights missing from Vanguard‘s offering. So gather the squad and enjoy those instead when craving four player undead chaos!
The Bottom Line
While disappointing for longtime fans, Vanguard Zombies‘ solo path won‘t divert. So anticipation of future patches enabling split screen seems misplaced, with signs pointing to continued isolation. Other franchise titles deliver on that couch co-op itch – now‘s the perfect time to revisit those!
