Back 4 Blood split screen does not exist. The game is designed for online multiplayer only, so there is no native local co-op option on any platform. If you came here looking to play with a friend on the same couch, the short answer is a direct no, you cannot set up a split-screen session in Back 4 Blood.
Why isn't split-screen available in Back 4 Blood?
Back 4 Blood was built as an online-first cooperative experience, and that design choice is why split-screen is missing. Modern game development often prioritizes online connectivity and cross-play, which allows players to team up with friends across different consoles and PCs. However, that same online architecture places heavy demands on the game engine, especially during the chaotic hordes of Ridden that fill the screen. Supporting two simultaneous local players would require rendering the game twice on one device, which can strain performance and cause frame rate drops. The developers chose to focus on the online co-op experience instead, and they have not added a local split-screen mode since launch.
How to play Back 4 Blood co-op online
Instead of split-screen, you can play the entire campaign online with up to four players in cooperative modes. This is the intended way to experience the game with friends, and it works across platforms. To set up an online co-op campaign, you need to create a party and invite your friends through the game’s social menu. You can also join a friend’s game directly from their invite. Once everyone is in the party, the host starts the campaign, and all players fight through the levels together. The game supports up to four players in co-op and eight players in PvP Swarm mode. This online co-op mode is the only way to play with others in Back 4 Blood, so you and your friend will each need your own copy of the game and a separate console or PC.
How to play Back 4 Blood solo offline
If you prefer to play alone, Back 4 Blood does offer an offline Campaign mode and an offline Training mode, both playable solo with three AI teammates. This is a fully offline experience, meaning you do not need an internet connection to play. The AI teammates will fight alongside you, revive you when you go down, and help you complete objectives. This solo option is a good way to practice the game or enjoy the story without needing other players. Keep in mind that offline mode does not let you earn certain online progression rewards, but it is a solid way to experience the campaign at your own pace.
Best split-screen alternatives to Back 4 Blood
If you are set on playing a cooperative zombie shooter with a friend on the same screen, there are better options that do support local split-screen. World War Z also includes a split-screen option for its co-op campaign. These games give you the local co-op gameplay that Back 4 Blood lacks, so you can still enjoy the thrill of fighting off hordes side by side with a friend.
