allows you to skip online server authentication entirely. This provides a "helpful feature" of security by preventing Remote Code Execution (RCE)
If the config.cfg file is missing, launch the single-player game once to generate it.
Because standard cracks only unlock the single-player campaign, you need an offline multiplayer emulator.
Press the tilde key ( ~ ) on your keyboard to open the developer console. If it does not open, enable it first under Options > Game Settings > Enable Developer Console . 👥 Step 4: Adding Bots and Starting the Game allows you to skip online server authentication entirely
In the retail version of Black Ops 1 , accessing the multiplayer menu traditionally requires an active connection to Steam and the official matchmaking servers. When those servers are unavailable—or if you do not have an internet connection—the game locks you out of the multiplayer lobby, restricting you to the single-player campaign.
Double-click the modified BlackOpsMP.exe or the patch launcher executable.
However, for the definitive offline experience—where you can unlock everything, play on custom maps, host LAN parties without a connection, and enable split-screen on PC—the client is the gold standard. It respects the original gameplay while removing the burdens of outdated server connectivity and always-online requirements. Press the tilde key ( ~ ) on
It’s called Combat Training. While it may technically require an internet connection to log in, playing it with bots functions like an offline match, and you can invite friends to play alongside you on your team. You can also adjust the bot difficulty, choosing from settings like Recruit, Regular, Hardened, or Veteran.
The most straightforward way to play is by using the game's single-player modes offline. For this, you'll need to purchase the game on Steam.
While this method works perfectly for the campaign and solo zombies, it will not grant you access to the standard multiplayer mode to play with bots. For that, you'll need the Combat Training mode described below. When those servers are unavailable—or if you do
You need a standard installation of on your PC.
. The official Steam version requires an active internet connection to authenticate and access multiplayer menus. Recommended Offline Methods Plutonium Client with LAN Launcher
In the main menu, press the "Start" button on your controller or keyboard, then select "Create a Private Match." Choose "Split Screen" and follow the on-screen instructions to set up a split-screen game.
For the full experience, including Zombies and online leaderboards, you would need to buy the game. But for a casual, offline bot-shooter on a budget, Combat Training is a perfectly playable, legal, and free way to relive the golden era of Black Ops .