Split Fiction Overview
Split Fiction is an upcoming cooperative action-adventure game developed by Hazelight Studios, renowned for their award-winning title It Takes Two. Scheduled for release on March 6, 2025, the game will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC platforms.
Split Fiction Gameplay and Storyline
In Split Fiction, players step into the roles of Mio and Zoe, two writers with contrasting styles—science fiction and fantasy, respectively. After a high-tech heist aimed at stealing their creative ideas goes awry, they find themselves trapped within a simulation of their own imaginations. To escape with their memories and stories intact, these strangers must collaborate, navigating through a series of challenges that blend their distinct narrative worlds.
The game is designed exclusively for split-screen cooperative multiplayer, requiring two players to work in tandem either locally or online. Gameplay involves a mix of platforming, puzzle-solving, and combat, with each level introducing unique mechanics. For instance, players might find themselves taming dragons in one scenario and battling as cyber ninjas in another, reflecting the fusion of Mio’s sci-fi elements and Zoe’s fantasy themes.
Innovative Features
Dynamic Split-Screen: The game employs a dynamic split-screen system, ensuring both players remain engaged and aware of each other’s actions, fostering a deeper sense of collaboration.
Friend’s Pass System: Mirroring Hazelight’s previous titles, Split Fiction offers a Friend’s Pass, allowing players to invite a friend to join the adventure without requiring a second purchase.
Cross-Platform Play: At launch, the game supports cross-platform play, enabling players on different systems to team up seamlessly.
Early Reception and Reviews
Pre-release previews have generated significant buzz, with many praising the game’s creativity and cooperative mechanics. Screen Rant highlighted that Split Fiction “builds upon It Takes Two and takes things so much further,” emphasizing the game’s expanded scope and ambition.
VentureBeat noted the game’s “fast action with a smooth learning curve,” suggesting that while the challenges are engaging, they remain accessible to a broad audience.
Eurogamer described Split Fiction as “a riot,” particularly highlighting a memorable sequence involving a meat grinder that “might one-up that infamous elephant scene from It Takes Two.”
Overall, Split Fiction is poised to redefine the cooperative gaming experience, blending imaginative storytelling with diverse gameplay mechanics. As the release date approaches, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be another standout title from Hazelight Studios.
