Yes—both Call of Duty: Black Ops and Call of Duty: Black Ops II are available as PS4/PS5 ports, and both support online multiplayer, two-player local split-screen, and multiplayer between PS4 and PS5. They do not support cross-platform matchmaking with Xbox, PC, or any other non-PlayStation system. Online play requires PlayStation Plus and an Activision account. Each PlayStation listing advertises support for up to 18 online players with PlayStation Plus.
The short answer for PS5 players
The original Black Ops (often called Black Ops 1) and Black Ops II are sold on PlayStation as PS4/PS5 versions. The listings for both games give a July 9, 2026 release date. On a PS5, you can play either game online with friends using PS4 consoles, play locally with a second controller on one console, and access the original Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies content.
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- PS4 friend on PS5: Yes. This is cross-generation PlayStation multiplayer.
- Xbox or PC friend: No. Cross-platform multiplayer with non-PlayStation systems is not supported.
- Split-screen: Yes, with two local players shown on the current listings. Exact limits can vary by mode.
- Online subscription: PlayStation Plus is required for online multiplayer.
- Online capacity: Both listings state support for up to 18 online players with PlayStation Plus.
- Modes: Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies are included in both ports.
- Accounts: An Activision account is required in addition to your PlayStation account.
Black Ops 1 and Black Ops II: feature comparison on PS5
| Feature | Black Ops | Black Ops II |
|---|---|---|
| PS5 availability | PS4/PS5 listing; July 9, 2026 release date shown by PlayStation | PS4/PS5 listing; July 9, 2026 release date shown by PlayStation |
| PS4-to-PS5 multiplayer | Supported | Supported |
| Xbox, PC, or other non-PlayStation cross-play | Not supported | Not supported |
| Local play and split-screen | 1–2 players shown on the current listing; Combat Training is documented as online and split-screen | 1–2 players shown on the current listing; the manual describes Multiplayer as online and local |
| Online subscription | PlayStation Plus required | PlayStation Plus required |
| Advertised online capacity | Up to 18 online players with PlayStation Plus | Up to 18 online players with PlayStation Plus |
| Included content | Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies | Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies |
| DLC and season passes | Sold separately; availability and pricing depend on the store region | Sold separately; availability and pricing depend on the store region |
What “cross-play” means for these ports
PS4 and PS5 can play together
PlayStation describes the feature as cross-generation Multiplayer between PS4 and PS5 players. That means a person using the PS4 version or a PS4 console can join a friend playing on PS5, provided both are using the same game, have online access, and meet the account and subscription requirements.
This is useful for groups upgrading at different times. You do not need every player to own a PS5, but you should buy the PlayStation listing for the game your group intends to play and keep everyone on the same title. Black Ops and Black Ops II remain separate multiplayer communities; owning one does not grant access to the other.
#1 Best Overall
- Haptic feedback - Feel physically responsive feedback to your in-game actions with dual actuators which replace traditional rumble motors. In your hands, these dynamic vibrations can simulate the feeling of everything from environments to the recoil of different weapons. .Operating temperature : 41 °F to 95 °F (5 °C to 35 °C)
- Adaptive triggers - Experience varying levels of force and tension as you interact with your in-game gear and environments. From pulling back an increasingly tight bowstring to hitting the brakes on a speeding car, feel physically connected to your on-screen actions.
- Built-in microphone and headset jack - Chat with friends online using the built-in microphone or by connecting a headset to the 3.5mm jack. Easily switch voice capture on and off at a moment’s notice with the dedicated mute button. Internet and account for PlayStation Network required.
- DualSense Controller PS5 and PC compatible. Not compatible with PS4.
- PS Remote Play requires Remote Play App connected to Wi-Fi, PS4 or PS5 console with the latest system software and compatible game. A PS4 or PS5 console with a wired connection via a LAN cable is recommended. Version 4.0 of the Remote Play App on iOS and iPadOS or version 4.1 on macOS is required for games to be playable with the controller over Bluetooth.
Xbox and PC matchmaking is excluded
The PlayStation product wording is explicit: “This classic Call of Duty® experience supports cross-generation Multiplayer between PS4® and PS5® players. Cross-platform Multiplayer with other non-PlayStation® platforms is not supported.” In practical terms, a PS5 player cannot invite an Xbox or PC player into a match through the original ports.
Do not confuse the cross-generation feature with modern cross-platform Call of Duty systems. These ports provide PlayStation-family compatibility only. If your group includes Xbox or PC users, these versions will not create a shared matchmaking pool.
Is split-screen available on PS5?
Two-player local play is supported
Both current PlayStation listings show 1–2 players. Activision’s Black Ops information also states that Combat Training lets you play against enemy-controlled AI “online and split-screen.” The Black Ops II manual describes Multiplayer as playable “online and locally.” Together, those mode descriptions support two-player local split-screen on the PS5 ports.
Rank #2
- Ultra Customizable Controls
- Mappable Back Buttons
- DualSense Wireless Controller Features Built In
- Replaceable Stick Modules and Caps
Split-screen means two people use the same PS5 and television, with each player using a separate compatible controller. It is different from two PS5 consoles playing online: no second console or second online connection is needed for local play, although the exact mode and account behavior can vary.
Mode limits are not identical
The 1–2-player label is the clearest current listing information for local use, but it is not a promise that every mode has the same player limit. Combat Training is specifically documented as split-screen in Black Ops. Black Ops II’s manual confirms local Multiplayer, while its Zombies section lists “ZOMBIES (1-8 PLAYERS)” without establishing that all eight can play locally on one PS5. Treat two-player split-screen as the dependable local expectation and check the in-game lobby for the mode you want.
What you need for local play
- One PS5 with the PS4/PS5 version of the chosen game installed.
- A second compatible controller. A DualSense Wireless Controller is the natural PS5 option; the listings specify a vibration function.
- A separate local user or guest profile for the second player, when the game requests one.
- The game’s local Multiplayer or Zombies menu, rather than an online matchmaking playlist.
PlayStation Plus is generally not needed merely to play a local split-screen session, but it is required if either player is joining an online match. The game can still ask players to sign in to PlayStation Network or Activision services for profile and entitlement checks.
Rank #3
- Wireless Controller: The controller connects wirelessly via Bluetooth for convenience.
- DualSense Technology: Features advanced haptic feedback and adaptive trigger buttons for immersive gaming.
- Gray Camouflage Design: Stylish and unique design with a gray camouflage pattern.
- 17 Buttons: Includes 12 main buttons and 5 customizable buttons for versatile gameplay.
- PlayStation 5 Compatible: Works with all PlayStation 5 games and accessories.
How online multiplayer works
PlayStation Plus is mandatory for online matches
Both product pages state: “Online Multiplayer requires a PlayStation®Plus subscription (sold separately).” This requirement applies to online competitive or cooperative play through the PS5 ports. It is separate from the one-time purchase of the game.
The same listings state that each title supports up to 18 online players with PlayStation Plus. That is the advertised online-player ceiling, not a guarantee that every playlist, map, party size, or match type will contain 18 people. Actual lobbies depend on the selected mode, available players, region, and the service’s current operation.
An Activision account is also required
In addition to a PlayStation Network account, online players need an Activision account. Use the same Activision identity consistently if you want your friends to find you across sessions. If a sign-in screen appears during first launch, complete it before trying to join a friend; repeatedly backing out can leave the online menu unavailable until the account check finishes.
Rank #4
- Enjoy precise, comfortable control over 10,000+ supported Steam games.
- Easily pair the controller directly to your Windows PC via Bluetooth or play as you charge with the included USB Type-C cable
- Stay paired with up to four different Bluetooth devices, making it easy to enjoy the controller across Windows PC, Mac, PS5 consoles and smartphones. Discover more connection tips and tricks at playstation.com/pair-dualsense
- Access the latest available controller firmware directly from your PC with the free-todownload PlayStation Accessories app
- Play games streamed from your PS5 or PS4 console to your PC via the PS Remote Play App
Online, local, and mixed-generation setups
| Setup | Works? | What is required |
|---|---|---|
| Two players on one PS5 | Yes, for supported local modes | Second controller; local Multiplayer or Zombies menu |
| PS5 player with PS4 friend | Yes | Each player’s console, game, PlayStation Plus, Activision account, and internet connection |
| PS5 player with Xbox friend | No | Cross-platform matchmaking is not supported |
| PS5 player with PC friend | No | Cross-platform matchmaking is not supported |
| Local split-screen plus online friends | Mode-dependent | Two local controllers, online accounts, PlayStation Plus, and a playlist that accepts the local party |
Which modes are included?
Campaign
Treyarch’s announcement for the ports says both games include Campaign. The single-player story is therefore part of the PS5 purchase rather than an online-only package. Campaign progress and multiplayer service requirements are separate; you can play the story without joining an online match.
Multiplayer
Both ports include the original Multiplayer component. Black Ops documents Combat Training against enemy-controlled AI as playable online and split-screen. Black Ops II’s manual describes Multiplayer as available online and locally. These statements cover the core ways readers usually ask about the games: solo or local practice, two-player couch play, and internet matches.
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Zombies
Zombies is included in both ports, according to Treyarch’s announcement. The Black Ops II manual labels its Zombies section “ZOMBIES (1-8 PLAYERS).” That figure identifies the mode’s stated player range, but it should not be read as a promise that eight people can share one PS5 screen. The current PlayStation listings show 1–2 players, so use the lobby’s displayed limit when planning a local session.
Best Value
- Bring gaming worlds to life - Feel your in-game actions and environment simulated through haptic feedback*. Experience varying force and tension at your fingertips with adaptive triggers*
- Find your voice, share your passion - Chat online through the built-in microphone. Connect a headset directly via the 3.5mm jack. Record and broadcast your epic gaming moments with the create button
- A gaming icon in your hands - Enjoy a comfortable, evolved design with an iconic layout and enhanced sticks. Hear higher-fidelity** sound effects through the built-in speaker in supported games
- Multi-device connectivity - Connect using a USB Type-C cable or Bluetooth technology and easily play on more devices including Windows PC and Mac computers.
- Elevate PC gaming with advanced features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers in a range of blockbuster PC titles.
How to play with a PS4 friend from PS5
- Install the correct game. Choose either the Black Ops or Black Ops II PS4/PS5 listing. The two titles do not share matchmaking.
- Update and launch. Let the PS5 finish any game update, then start the game from the console’s library.
- Sign in to required accounts. Use PlayStation Network and complete the Activision account sign-in when prompted.
- Confirm PlayStation Plus. The account joining online Multiplayer must have an active PlayStation Plus subscription.
- Add the PS4 player. Add or select the friend through PlayStation’s friend list, then use the in-game invite or join option.
- Choose an online mode. Select Multiplayer, Zombies, or another available online playlist. If the friend is on PS4, the session is cross-generation PlayStation play.
- Check the lobby. Verify that both players appear before launching. If the invitation fails, return to the main menu and repeat the account and network checks below.
DLC, season passes, and what is not included automatically
The base ports include Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies, but DLC and season passes are sold separately. The available editions, prices, promotions, and regional catalog can change, so check the PlayStation Store listing for your account’s country before assuming a map pack or season pass is bundled.
For a group, matching DLC ownership can matter. A player who lacks a required add-on may be unable to enter a playlist or map rotation that uses it. Buy the add-on only after confirming which edition the group owns and whether the store offers the desired content in your region.
Troubleshooting PS5 multiplayer and split-screen
The PS4 friend cannot join
- Confirm that both players are launching the same title, not one Black Ops game against the other.
- Check that the PS4 player is using the PlayStation version and that both installations are updated.
- Verify PlayStation Plus on the account attempting to play online.
- Complete Activision account sign-in on both consoles.
- Send a fresh invitation from the in-game social menu after both players reach the main menu.
The game says an online subscription is required
This is expected when entering online Multiplayer or Zombies. The PlayStation listing requires PlayStation Plus, sold separately. A local split-screen session is a different path, but the game may still require account sign-in for profiles and service checks.
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- Pair the controller with the PS5 and confirm that its light and buttons respond in the console menu.
- Press the PS button on the second controller and assign it to another local user or guest.
- Enter the game’s local Multiplayer or Zombies menu and press the displayed join button.
- If the player prompt does not appear, return to the title screen and reconnect the controller before reopening the mode.
An Xbox or PC friend is missing from the invite list
That is not a connection defect. Cross-platform Multiplayer with non-PlayStation platforms is expressly unsupported. The supported remote combination is PS4 with PS5 within the PlayStation ecosystem.
Which version should a PlayStation group buy?
Choose Black Ops when
- Your group wants the first game’s Campaign, Multiplayer, Zombies, and Combat Training presentation.
- You specifically want the documented Combat Training split-screen option.
- Your friends are all on PS4 or PS5 and do not need Xbox or PC cross-play.
Choose Black Ops II when
- Your group prefers its Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies package.
- You want the sequel’s locally playable Multiplayer described in the original manual.
- Your group understands that the “1-8 players” Zombies wording does not establish eight-player local split-screen on one PS5.
Choose based on the group, not the console generation
There is no need to buy a separate PS4 copy solely to play with a PS4 owner: the PS5 listing supports cross-generation Multiplayer. The important decisions are which game your group wants, whether everyone can use PlayStation Plus for online sessions, and whether the group needs any separately sold DLC.
Bottom line for PS5 owners
Both original Black Ops ports deliver the features most PlayStation groups are looking for: online Multiplayer, local two-player split-screen, and PS4-to-PS5 multiplayer. They include Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies, advertise up to 18 online players with PlayStation Plus, and require an Activision account for online play. The hard limit is platform scope: Xbox and PC players cannot join these PlayStation matches. For couch play, add a second compatible controller; for remote play, budget for PlayStation Plus and make sure every participant is using the same game.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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