Split Fiction: The Review – The Ultimate Co-Op Adventure

What is Split Fiction?

Split Fiction is the latest cooperative action-adventure game from Hazelight Studios, the creators behind It Takes Two and A Way Out. Released on March 6, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows, this title continues the studio’s tradition of delivering unique, story-driven co-op experiences. But what makes Split Fiction stand out? Let’s dive into this thrilling new release.

A Tale of Two Writers: The Narrative

In Split Fiction, players step into the shoes of two authors, Zoe and Mio, who find themselves trapped within the worlds of their own stories. The sinister Rader Corporation is behind the experiment that blends their literary worlds together, forcing them to navigate through a reality where fantasy and science fiction collide.

Zoe, a fantasy writer, and Mio, a sci-fi novelist, must work together to escape the chaos and reclaim control over their own narratives. This unique storyline creates an engaging and unpredictable journey that keeps players hooked.

Worlds of Pure Imagination

Image Credit: Gematsu

Each level of your adventure alternates between Zoe’s fantasy settings and Mio’s sci-fi worlds. Expect to encounter a wide range of diverse, exhilarating challenges as you move between these two realities.

Escape a sun going supernova in a high-stakes survival mission.
Take on a monkey in a dance battle that tests your rhythm and reflexes.
Battle a bad kitty in a hilariously intense showdown.
Ride everything from gravity bikes to a sand shark, navigating different environments with exciting new mechanics.

Every world introduces fresh aesthetics, unique gameplay styles, and evolving mechanics to master. The variety keeps players engaged, ensuring that no two levels feel the same.

From Bickering to BFFs

Image Credit: IGN Nordic

Starting out as strangers, Mio and Zoe’s personalities clash, creating tension in their early interactions. However, as they navigate their bizarre prison, their relationship evolves.

Through unexpected challenges, they learn to trust each other and develop a strong bond. The game masterfully explores themes of friendship, teamwork, and resilience, making the emotional journey as impactful as the gameplay itself.

Innovative Cooperative Gameplay

Designed exclusively for cooperative play, Split Fiction requires two players to work in tandem, either locally or online. Communication and teamwork are key, as each character has unique abilities tailored to their respective genres.

Zoe harnesses magical abilities, commanding dragons and wielding enchanted weapons.
Mio, on the other hand, uses futuristic technology, wielding laser swords and hacking into robotic systems.

The game seamlessly blends these elements, transitioning between different gameplay mechanics that evolve as players progress. One moment, you might be battling mythical creatures, and the next, you’re piloting spaceships through asteroid fields. This constant variety keeps the experience fresh and engaging.

Visuals and Design

Image Credit: Steam

Built using Unreal Engine 5, Split Fiction boasts stunning visuals that bring its hybrid world to life. Each level is meticulously designed, blending elements of fantasy and science fiction in breathtaking environments.

From sprawling medieval castles illuminated by neon sci-fi lights to futuristic cities where magic intertwines with technology, every setting feels immersive. The seamless transitions between different styles create a visually captivating experience that enhances the game’s storytelling.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, Split Fiction received widespread acclaim from critics and players alike. Reviewers praised its:

Inventive co-op mechanics
Engaging and unpredictable narrative
Seamless integration of diverse gameplay elements
Visually stunning world-building

Many consider it one of the best cooperative games of the year, with Hazelight Studios once again proving their mastery in delivering meaningful, story-driven co-op experiences. Some critics noted that while the main plot follows a familiar structure, the dynamic storytelling and fresh gameplay mechanics make it an unforgettable experience.

Accessibility and Player Experience

One of the game’s standout features is its accessibility. Split Fiction is designed to be enjoyed by players of all skill levels. With intuitive mechanics and gradual difficulty progression, it caters to both casual and hardcore gamers.

Additionally, its emphasis on cooperative play encourages teamwork, making it a perfect choice for friends or couples looking for an immersive gaming experience. Hazelight Studios has also incorporated features like:

Adaptive difficulty settings
Cross-platform play
Narrative choices that impact the story

These elements add to the replay value, ensuring that no two playthroughs are exactly the same.

Final Verdict: Is Split Fiction Worth Playing?

If you’re a fan of cooperative adventures, Split Fiction is a must-play. With its genre-blending gameplay, engaging story, and breathtaking visuals, it delivers an unforgettable experience. Hazelight Studios continues to push the boundaries of co-op storytelling, and Split Fiction stands as a testament to their innovation.

So, grab a friend, dive into the worlds of Zoe and Mio, and prepare for a narrative-driven journey like no other!

Ready to embark on this epic adventure? Click here and get your copy today on Xbox and Playstation!