Couch Co-op in a Galaxy Far, Far Away: Does Star Wars Battlefront Have Split Screen?
Do you want to relive epic Star Wars battles with a friend? You might wonder if Star Wars Battlefront supports split-screen mode. Get ready to jump into the details about local multiplayer in Battlefront.
Classic Battlefront Bliss: Star Wars Battlefront (2004) & Battlefront II (2005)
First, let’s talk about the original games: Star Wars Battlefront (2004) and Battlefront II (2005). Longing for some couch co-op? These games deliver. They provide solid split-screen features.
Picture this: you and a friend sit side-by-side, battling on Hoth or Naboo. No need for separate consoles or online setups. Grab a second controller and start the fight. Both Battlefront and its sequel included 2-player split-screen. It’s like a trip back to gaming’s golden age, where snacks and split-screen ruled.
Now, onto the Star Wars Battlefront Classic Collection. This collection brings 2004 and 2005 games to modern consoles. Good news! The split-screen feature remains. You can still enjoy local multiplayer. But if you hoped to play with a friend on another platform, that won’t work. The Classic Collection does not support cross-platform multiplayer.
But don’t worry! While cross-platform play is absent, Classic Collection offers cross-generation multiplayer. If you’re on a PS5 and your friend has a PS4, you can connect online. You cannot play with someone on a different console brand online. However, teaming up across generations in the same console family is possible. Think of it as a family reunion with blasters.
Navigating the Modern Era: Star Wars Battlefront (2015)
Next up is Star Wars Battlefront (2015). This game aims to capture the cinematic feel of the original trilogy. But does it support split-screen? Did DICE keep the local multiplayer?
The answer is mixed. The game may not emphasize split-screen, but some players confirm its presence on specific platforms. Players who look carefully and find some footage note that split-screen may exist, especially on Xbox Series X. Imagine setting up local split-screen, hitting “please join in,” and voila! Instant fun on your screen.
Yet, split-screen in the 2015 Battlefront may not be as notable or rich as in the classics. It could be more hidden or limited, focusing on particular modes instead of being central to gameplay. Think of it as an Easter egg for those who dig deeper.
The Sequel Saga Continues: Star Wars Battlefront II (2017)
Then came Star Wars Battlefront II (2017), aiming to improve the experience. Would this game embrace couch co-op or ignore it for online multiplayer?
Good news! Star Wars Battlefront II (2017) does support split-screen. You can enjoy the action with a friend locally. However, limitations exist. It is not available across all game modes.
Game Modes Where Split-Screen Shines
So, where can you find split-screen battles in the Battlefront universe? Let’s explore the game modes perfect for local multiplayer.
Arcade Mode: Your Split-Screen Playground
Arcade Mode is your destination for split-screen fun. This mode caters to single-player and local co-op play. Jump into Arcade Mode and pick “Co-op” or “Versus.” “Co-op” lets you team against AI, while “Versus” pits you against your friend. Think of Arcade Mode as practice for your split-screen skills.
Missions Mode: Beyond the Arcade
You can also try “Missions Mode” in split-screen. This mode offers various scenarios locally. Missions include training challenges, survival instances, and “Battles Mode.” Battles Mode presents Team Deathmatch with a twist: collect tokens dropped by defeated foes for points. It adds excitement to the classic formula.
Within Missions, sub-categories include Survival, Battles, Hero Battles, and Trials. Survival mode limits you to playing as Rebels. However, in other Missions modes, you can choose to fight for light or dark sides. Whether you prefer piloting X-wings or controlling Imperial troops, Missions Mode has options for split-screen scenarios.
Co-op Missions: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
For more structured cooperation, check out “Co-op Missions.” In this mode, four players can team up against AI opponents in large-scale battles with unique goals. It is a Player-versus-Environment (PvE) experience where you work together to complete tasks. Think of it as a squad-based adventure against the AI.
Firing Up Split-Screen: A Quick Guide
Ready to jump into split-screen? Here’s a step-by-step guide for Battlefront II (2017) to get you started:
- Connect that Second Controller: Make sure your second controller is connected and synced. This is essential; no one can fight alone.
- Launch Battlefront 2: Start the game and get prepped for action.
- Navigate to Arcade: From the main menu, go to “Play” or similar. Then, look for “Single Player” and select “Arcade.”
- Choose Your Mode: Within Arcade, select either “Co-op” to team up against AI or “Versus” to battle each other.
- Select Scenarios: Pick scenarios or dive into “Custom Arcade” for tailored experiences.
- Player Two, Engage! Follow prompts to add the second player by pressing a button on the second controller.
That’s it! You should be ready for split-screen Battlefront action. Remember that menu layouts might vary by platform, but these steps will guide you in the right direction.
Split-Screen Caveats: What You Need to Know
While split-screen is a fantastic addition, understanding its limitations is crucial.
- Arcade and Missions Focus: Split-screen is mainly confined to Arcade and Missions modes. Don’t expect massive online modes in split-screen. It’s designed for local co-op in specific, smaller-scale modes.
- No Online Split-Screen Multiplayer: Unfortunately, you can’t play online with a friend and also have split-screen on your end. Split-screen is strictly local.
- Battlefield 1 is a No-Go: For those curious about DICE titles like Battlefield 1, no split-screen modes exist here either.
In conclusion, not every Star Wars Battlefront game features split-screen in all modes. However, the feature allows you to enjoy galaxy-spanning battles with friends locally. So grab a controller, invite a buddy, and may the split-screen force be with you!
