Split Fiction has finally made its grand entrance, and it’s clear that Hazelight Studios has struck gold once again. Following the success of the 2021 Game of the Year It Takes Two, expectations were sky-high for a worthy successor, and Split Fiction doesn’t just meet them—it often surpasses them.
What makes Split Fiction such a joy to play is its masterful blend of gameplay and storytelling. Its imaginative mechanics paired with a gripping narrative create an experience that’s truly holistic. Crafting a game that excels both in play and story is a formidable challenge in the gaming industry. Yet, unlike titles that may lean too heavily on one element, Split Fiction beautifully balances both aspects, showcasing how they can harmoniously coexist.
The co-op games from Hazelight Studios have always stood out, with Split Fiction embodying a prime example of how well-designed mechanics can act as a narrative platform rather than just a passage from one game moment to the next. Director Josef Fares and his team at Hazelight seem to possess a deep-seated love for creativity, which radiates through every aspect of Split Fiction.
The game continues the studio’s tradition of crafting engaging co-op stories, further refining the craft with each new title. While other powerhouse titles like The Last of Us and Red Dead Redemption 2 also boast strong gameplay and storytelling, Split Fiction sets itself apart with its creativity and the attention given to world-building and narrative depth.
In Split Fiction, players become engrossed in the relationship between Mio and Zoe. Mirror images of the tension seen in It Takes Two, these characters initially appear as opposing forces. However, rather than exploring a relationship at an endpoint, Split Fiction delves into strangers’ attempts to connect more deeply. Each level cues further exploration of their dynamic, providing room for character growth, while the story itself adds gravity to the colorful environments.
Built on Unreal Engine 5, Split Fiction not only delivers technically but also has potential long-term implications for the gaming industry. There’s a valuable lesson here: even games centered on weighty themes can still be deeply enjoyable. The contrast between the vivid game world and the somber backstory of its protagonists, Mio and Zoe, creates a uniquely engaging experience.
As the gaming calendar proceeds into what could be one of the most significant years in the industry’s history, the presence of Split Fiction on the roster of releases brings an exciting twist. It remains to be seen if this title will have the lasting impact of its predecessor, but there’s no doubt about its current success and its compelling use of story and gameplay to weave magic for its players.
