It's fantastic that you're looking to dive into some couch co-op action with Call of Duty: Vanguard! There's nothing quite like sharing the experience with a friend right there beside you. While Vanguard offers a robust multiplayer experience, it's important to note a few key things about its split-screen capabilities right off the bat.
Call of Duty: Vanguard's split-screen functionality is primarily available for its Multiplayer mode on consoles (PlayStation and Xbox). Unfortunately, it does NOT support split-screen for the Campaign or Zombies mode. This is a common point of confusion for players, so setting expectations is crucial.
Now, let's get you set up to dominate the battlefield with your buddy!
How to Play Call of Duty: Vanguard Split Screen on Consoles
This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. Prepare your controllers, because it's time for some shared-screen mayhem!
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| How To Play Cod Vanguard Split Screen |
Step 1: Get Your Gear Ready!
First things first, let's make sure you have everything you need. This might seem obvious, but it's the foundation for a smooth split-screen experience.
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
- 1.1 Your Console: Whether you're on a PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, or Xbox Series X/S, ensure your console is powered on and connected to your TV.
- 1.2 Two Controllers: This is absolutely essential! You'll need two separate controllers for two players. Make sure both are charged or have fresh batteries.
- 1.3 Call of Duty: Vanguard Game: Of course, you need the game itself! Ensure it's fully installed and updated to the latest version. Game updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can affect split-screen play.
- 1.4 Active Accounts (for online play): If you plan to play online multiplayer in split-screen, both players will need active PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold subscriptions. For local play, only the primary account needs to be signed in.
Engaging question for you, the player: Before we jump into the game, do you prefer playing with a friend locally on the same couch, or are you looking to team up and take on other players online in split-screen? Let me know your preference, and we can focus on those specific aspects!
Step 2: Launch Call of Duty: Vanguard and Navigate to Multiplayer
With your equipment ready, it's time to fire up the game.
- 2.1 Start the Game: From your console's dashboard, launch Call of Duty: Vanguard.
- 2.2 Select Multiplayer: Once the game loads and you reach the main menu, navigate to and select the "Multiplayer" option. This is where all the split-screen action happens! You cannot access split-screen from the Campaign or Zombies menus.
Step 3: Connecting the Second Player (Local Play)
This is the core step for enabling split-screen. The process is remarkably similar for both PlayStation and Xbox.
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3.1 Activate the Second Controller: With your second controller, turn it on.
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3.2 Sign In (or Play as Guest):
- On PlayStation (PS4/PS5): Once the second controller is on, you'll typically be prompted to select a user profile. The second player can either sign into their own PlayStation Network account or choose to play as a "Guest."
- On Xbox (Xbox One/Series X/S): Similarly, the second player can sign into their Xbox profile or opt for a "Guest" account.
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3.3 Join the Lobby: Once the second controller is recognized and a profile is selected, you should see a prompt on the screen (usually in the top right or bottom corner) indicating that a second player can join. On PlayStation, this is often by pressing the "X" button (or Triangle), and on Xbox, it's typically the "A" button (or Y). Press the indicated button on the second controller to join the lobby.
You'll know it's working when you see a second player icon or name appear in your party/lobby. The screen might momentarily flicker or adjust as it prepares for split-screen.
Step 4: Choosing Your Game Mode
Now that both players are in the lobby, you can choose your preferred multiplayer mode.
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
- 4.1 Browse Multiplayer Modes: From the Multiplayer menu, you can now browse the various game modes available. Common modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, Kill Confirmed, and others will be accessible in split-screen.
- 4.2 Select a Mode: Choose the mode you wish to play.
- 4.3 Start the Match: Once you've selected a mode, the primary player can start the matchmaking process. The game will automatically split the screen horizontally (top/bottom) or vertically (left/right) depending on the game's default setting for split-screen. Vanguard typically uses horizontal split-screen.
Step 5: Understanding Split-Screen Limitations and Optimizations
While split-screen is a blast, it's important to be aware of certain aspects:
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- 5.1 Performance: Running two instances of the game on a single console can be demanding. You might notice a slight dip in frame rate or graphical fidelity compared to playing solo. This is normal and expected.
- 5.2 User Interface: The HUD (Heads-Up Display) will be adjusted to fit the smaller screen real estate. Some elements might appear smaller or be positioned differently.
- 5.3 Game Modes: As mentioned, Campaign and Zombies modes are not supported in split-screen. Focus on the Multiplayer mode for your local co-op sessions.
- 5.4 Internet Connection (for online split-screen): If you're playing online with a friend on the same console, a stable and fast internet connection is crucial for both players to have a smooth experience. Lag can be amplified with two players sharing the connection.
Pro-Tip: For the best local split-screen experience, consider playing against bots or in private matches to minimize any potential network lag if your internet connection isn't super robust.
Step 6: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, things don't go exactly as planned. Here are a few common issues and their solutions:
- "Second player can't join":
- Check controller connection: Ensure the second controller is properly connected and recognized by the console.
- Sign-in issues: Double-check that the second player is signed into a valid account (or guest account).
- Game mode selection: Are you in the Multiplayer menu? Remember, other modes don't support split-screen.
- Prompt not appearing: Sometimes the prompt to join is subtle. Try pressing the "X" or "A" button on the second controller in the Multiplayer lobby, even if you don't see an explicit prompt.
- "Lag or poor performance":
- Close other applications: Ensure no other games or apps are running in the background on your console.
- Restart the game/console: A fresh start can often resolve minor performance glitches.
- Check internet connection: If playing online, test your internet speed and stability.
- "Screen goes black/freezes":
- Game updates: Ensure your game is fully updated. Outdated versions can sometimes have compatibility issues.
- System restart: Perform a hard reset of your console.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about Call of Duty: Vanguard split-screen:
Tip: Read mindfully — avoid distractions.
How to play Call of Duty Vanguard split screen online?
You can play online split-screen by ensuring both players are signed into accounts with active PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold subscriptions, then joining the multiplayer lobby with the second controller as outlined in Step 3.
How to set up vertical split screen in CoD Vanguard?
Call of Duty: Vanguard typically uses a horizontal split-screen display for local multiplayer. There is generally no in-game option to switch to vertical split-screen.
How to add a guest account for split screen in Vanguard?
When the second controller is turned on and prompted, select the option to "Play as Guest" instead of signing into a full profile.
How to get a second controller to work for split screen in CoD Vanguard?
Ensure the controller is powered on, connected to the console (wired or wireless), and then press the designated button (X/A or Triangle/Y) in the Multiplayer lobby to add the second player.
QuickTip: Look for contrasts — they reveal insights.
How to fix split screen not working in Call of Duty Vanguard?
Check controller connections, ensure you're in the Multiplayer mode, verify account sign-ins, and try restarting the game or console.
How to play Call of Duty Vanguard Zombies in split screen?
Unfortunately, Call of Duty: Vanguard's Zombies mode does not support split-screen co-op.
How to play Call of Duty Vanguard Campaign in split screen?
The Campaign mode in Call of Duty: Vanguard is a single-player experience and does not support split-screen co-op.
How to know if my console supports Vanguard split screen?
Call of Duty: Vanguard supports split-screen on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. PC does not natively support split-screen for Vanguard.
How to improve performance when playing split screen in Vanguard?
Close any other applications on your console, ensure your game is updated, and consider restarting your console if you experience significant lag. A stable internet connection helps for online split-screen.
How to switch players during a split-screen match in Vanguard?
Player roles are typically fixed once the match starts. The primary player's controller controls the top/left screen, and the second player's controller controls the bottom/right screen. You cannot typically swap control mid-match.
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