Twinsane
Split Fiction is the latest cooperative adventure developed by Hazelight Studios, the masterminds behind the award-winning Game of the Year in 2021, It Takes Two. Having personally experienced the joy of playing It Takes Two with my partner, I was eager to dive into their newest creation, Split Fiction. This game not only provided us with endless fun, but also managed to minimize any potential arguments that often arise when playing cooperative games like Overcooked.
The narrative of Split Fiction revolves around two aspiring writers, Zoe and Mio, who seek to have their stories published by a giant publishing company. The game kicks off with a clear depiction of the characters’ distinct personalities, as Zoe’s attempts at small talk with Mio are met with resistance. Upon encountering the untrustworthy CEO of the company, things take a turn for the worse as the writers, including Zoe, willingly encase themselves in bubbles to have their stories extracted. However, Zoe’s instincts kick in, leading her to challenge the CEO and inadvertently getting trapped in Mio’s mind. Now, the duo must work together to escape and prevent further memory theft.
Split Fiction’s world is visually stunning, showcasing the impressive capabilities of Hazelight Studios in their first next-gen exclusive title. The game is designed for split-screen co-op gameplay, allowing players to seamlessly navigate through the various challenges presented in alternating fantasy and science fiction genres. The contrasting personalities of Zoe and Mio add depth to the storytelling, with Zoe embracing the fantasy realm while Mio favors the futuristic and high-tech environments.
Playing Split Fiction on the PS5 offers a visually immersive experience with fluid controls. The gameplay mechanics, reminiscent of It Takes Two, include running, jumping, double jumping, and air dashing, with additional maneuverability options introduced in later stages. The game seamlessly combines platforming, shooting, close combat, stealth, and high-speed driving segments to keep players engaged and entertained.
Split Fiction excels in incorporating a variety of gameplay elements inspired by different genres, ensuring that each moment feels fresh and enjoyable. While some obstacles may initially stump players, cooperation and experimentation lead to swift progression. The balance between Zoe’s puzzle-centric fantasy worlds and Mio’s fast-paced futuristic settings adds a dynamic layer to the gameplay, showcasing the characters’ evolution and mutual respect.
Split Fiction stands out not only for its innovative storytelling and engaging gameplay but also for its ability to reinvent clichés and deliver unique experiences in each area. Optional stories scattered throughout the game offer humorous insights into Zoe’s and Mio’s early writing endeavors, providing a delightful break from the main storyline. The boss battles are particularly exhilarating, with varying gameplay phases that add depth and excitement to the overall experience.
For a truly unforgettable gaming experience, Split Fiction invites players to engage in quirky and fun activities like grappling a portable toilet into cyber traffic or frolicking in the mud as a rainbow-farting, slinky pig. The game is best enjoyed with a friend, and Hazelight Studios deserves praise for enabling cross-platform play and providing a friends pass option for those who wish to share the adventure with others. Split Fiction is a must-play title that offers accessibility, entertainment, and boundless creativity.
A PlayStation 5 Review code was provided by Electronic Arts