We tried that approach but we couldn't quite get used to it. Instead we've adopted a different method now. We have the assistant controller occasionally log out allowing us to enjoy the atmosphere or explore without interruption. When it's time to get back into the split-screen action we simply reactivate the second controller and we're immediately back in the game. Fortunately we don't have to reassign the party every time; the game remembers which characters were in use which is quite convenient