If you’ve ever jumped into a Hazelight Studios game, you’re already familiar with how they craft characters that you and your co-op partner can’t help but become attached to. These characters are not just pieced together hastily; they come alive with distinct personalities, backgrounds, and driving motivations, leading to memorable experiences as their stories unravel.
With "Split Fiction" set for release on March 6 for the PS5, Hazelight Studios maintains its reputation for creating compelling characters. The game introduces us to two unpublished authors, Mio and Zoe, each with their own flair. The narrative kicks off with them enticed by the prospect of a publishing agreement at Rader Publishing Headquarters, which takes a disastrous turn. They find themselves ensnared in a simulation of their own stories, seeking your help to break free. Let’s dig a little deeper into who Mio and Zoe are, so when it’s time to play, you’ll know exactly which one captures your interest!
Mio Hudson – Science Fiction Author
Mio stands out with her reserved demeanor. She’s decisive, realistic, and tends toward introversion. Growing up in the city alongside her father, Mio has navigated life with just enough to get by. Her motivation isn’t the spotlight or acclaim; she’s driven by the financial rewards of writing. Her passion for sci-fi shines through in her tales of neon-drenched cyberpunk stretches, gritty future arsenals, and the vast emptiness of space.
Within the game’s simulations, her sci-fi fascination manifests in some spectacular abilities. Picture yourself as a gravity-defying ninja wielding a razor-sharp energy sword, donning a high-tech exosuit for remote drone control, or engaging in combat clad in gleaming armor with laser blasters at the ready.
Zoe Foster – Fantasy Author
Then there’s Zoe, a charming, empathetic optimist who naturally thrives as an extrovert. This vibrant countryside girl carries a deep desire to prove her worth to her family. She longs for that publishing breakthrough to turn her dreams into reality. Zoe’s heart belongs to fantasy, with her creations teeming with tales of overcoming troll-infested towns, battling icy threats in lush forests, and safeguarding dragons at the brink of extinction.
In the game, her imagination takes flight! Imagine transforming into a magical shapeshifter, soaring through lands like a fairy, wielding a mythical sword atop a dragon, or gracefully gliding between floating islands with a mystical kite.
Mio and Zoe aren’t just character contrasts in fiction; they’re polar opposites who must learn to embrace their differences, uncover hidden truths about themselves, and realize the strength in teamwork and their growing friendship if they ever hope to escape the simulation.
During the game’s grand announcement at The Game Awards last December, Josef Fares shared a touching detail — the characters’ names hold personal significance, as Mio and Zoe are the names of his own daughters!
So the big question looms for you and your co-op partner: Who will take on the role of Mio, and who becomes Zoe?
The Friend’s Pass
Just like previous Hazelight titles "A Way Out" and "It Takes Two," the much-loved Friend’s Pass feature returns. This means if you own the game, you can invite a friend to join your adventure online absolutely free! Plus, with plans to introduce crossplay, gaming with friends will be seamless across different platforms.
Mark your calendars because "Split Fiction" lands on PlayStation 5 on March 6, 2025.
Keep in mind, the Friend’s Pass requires the installation of the Friend’s Pass, a steady internet connection, and the necessary platform account. One player must own the full game to enjoy the complete co-op experience.
