So I have given up on the notion that Larian is going to ever do anything about this topic. My wife and I started as a split screen co-op just to have 2 custom characters and we transitioned into a single player campaign like others have already suggested.
1. start split screen with 2 custom characters 2. I turned my controller off 3. turn the controller back on as an assist controller 4. enjoy a completely full screen experience
The only minor con of this approach is that whoever is the assist controller doesn't get free movement of their character at the same time as the main player's. But having tried both this and the split screen co-op, this is such a better experience. There is no split screen during exploration nor battle, and whenever there is a dialogue both of us fully engage in that one dialogue that's happening and make decisions together. It's a shame players have to find a workaround to actively avoid a "feature" that locks players into a worse experience. And also a shame that Larian does not seem to be hearing this issue or just not addressing it at all.
I saw this workaround a few weeks back and gave it a try. While it can work, it just wasn't enjoyable. We should be able to run around and explore at the same time, and this method has one of us just standing around while the other explores. Not the same experience as DOS.
I agree. It's definitely not the ideal experience. It's a shame Larian is forcing us into this vs. perma-split screen. I have my own playthrough that I started before starting a new playthrough with my wife so I'm content letting her explore and experience the game for the first time while I provide commentary on the side lol. I'd much rather have the full screen. Not sure why Larian doesn't understand this sentiment.
