Split Fiction Review: A Co-op Masterpiece That Redefines Collaborative Play
When Hazelight Studios announced Split Fiction, expectations were sky-high. After all, this is the studio that redefined co-op gaming with A Way Out and It Takes Two. Now, with Split Fiction, they’ve crafted a genre-blending adventure that’s equal parts chaotic, heartfelt, and wildly inventive. Having spent hours diving into its unpredictable worlds, here’s why this might just be the best co-op experience since It Takes Two—and where it stumbles.
The Premise: Two Writers, Endless Worlds
Split Fiction follows Mio and Zoe, rival novelists whose manuscripts are accidentally merged by a mischievous AI named PlotBot. To fix their stories—and their careers—they’re flung into a chaotic mashup of their creations: Mio’s gritty sci-fi universe clashes with Zoe’s whimsical fantasy realm. The result? A laugh-out-loud narrative packed with fourth-wall-breaking humor, emotional beats, and a surprisingly sharp critique of creative ego.
Gameplay: A Love Letter to Gaming’s Greatest Hits
Hazelight’s genius lies in its ability to reinvent gameplay mechanics chapter by chapter. Split Fiction shifts genres so frequently that it feels like playing 10 games in one. One minute you’re piloting mechs in a Mega Man-inspired shooter, the next you’re solving Portal-like puzzles in a magic library, or dodging trolls in a Crash Bandicoot-style chase. The unpredictability keeps the game fresh, though a few sections overstay their welcome (looking at you, rhythm-based dragon-riding minigame).
The co-op mechanics are flawless. Each player’s actions directly impact the other, whether you’re combining abilities to hack terminals and cast spells or racing against time on split-screen platforms. A standout chapter forces one player to navigate a Dark Souls-esque dungeon while the other manipulates the environment from a Sims-like god mode. It’s chaotic, communication-heavy, and ridiculously fun.
Visuals & Sound: A Feast for the Senses
The art style is a masterclass in contrast. Mio’s cyberpunk worlds are all neon-soaked skylines and glitching holograms, while Zoe’s fairy-tale realms burst with storybook colors and whimsical creatures. When the two styles collide—like a neon dragon battling a pixelated robot—it’s pure visual magic.
The soundtrack deserves equal praise, blending synthwave beats with orchestral fantasy themes. Voice acting is stellar, particularly PlotBot’s sarcastic quips and the leads’ expertly delivered snark.
The Good, The Bad, and The Glitchy
Pros:
- Creativity Unleashed: The constant genre-hopping is exhilarating.
- Pitch-Perfect Co-Op: Seamless integration of teamwork mechanics.
- Emotional Depth: A story that balances humor and heartbreak.
- Nostalgia Done Right: Homages to classics like Halo and Prince of Persia feel celebratory, not derivative.
Cons:
- Pacing Hiccups: A few minigames drag on, disrupting the flow.
- Linear Structure: Exploration is minimal—this isn’t an open-world title.
- Occasional Glitches: Screen-tearing during chaotic scenes (day-one patch promised).
Verdict: A Must-Play for Duos
Split Fiction isn’t just a game—it’s a testament to Hazelight’s mastery of collaborative storytelling. While its linear structure and occasional pacing issues might irk some, the sheer creativity and emotional payoff make it unforgettable. Play it with a partner, a friend, or someone you’d trust to navigate a zombie apocalypse. Just be warned: you’ll argue over puzzle solutions, cheer at ridiculous plot twists, and maybe even learn a thing or two about teamwork.
Release Date: March 6, 2025 Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC Perfect For: Co-op enthusiasts, genre-junkies, and anyone who’s ever argued about plot holes.
Final score: 9/10 “A triumph of imagination and partnership—Hazelight’s best yet.” — Tom’s Guide