Hazelight Studios has delivered another impressive game, following up their previous success with It Takes Two by introducing Split Fiction. This new title takes a creative turn as it ventures into the realm of literature, weaving the tale of two budding authors who must collaborate despite their differences. Expectations were high, especially after the acclaim It Takes Two received in 2021, but Split Fiction rises to the occasion.
In this unique story, we meet Mio and Zoe, two writers who find themselves trapped in a virtual reality world called The Machine, which gives life to their imaginative concepts. The twist? Mio is a sci-fi enthusiast, while Zoe revels in fantasy, and their personalities often clash beyond these preferences. As they journey to escape The Machine, players are taken on a thrilling switch between sci-fi and fantasy levels, resulting in a captivating mix of genres. The intriguing premise alone draws players in, but the game’s length also deserves praise.
For those curious about the time commitment, Split Fiction’s core story takes roughly 10 to 12 hours. If you dive into the side stories, you can expect an additional 2 to 3 hours of gameplay, offering a bit more adventure for completionists.
This length makes it an ideal choice for couples or friends looking to tackle a game together over a weekend. With some dedication, it’s even feasible to finish it in a single day. The game’s manageable duration is a major plus for those juggling busy schedules, as not everyone can dedicate endless hours to gaming.
One of the strengths of Split Fiction is its constant variety. As with It Takes Two, Hazelight Studios ensures that each mechanic and setting is utilized just enough to stay fresh and engaging. The game avoids falling into repetitiveness by cleverly introducing new elements just as you might start to tire of the old ones.
For a title designed around co-op play, balancing a rich story with an appropriate pacing is essential, and Hazelight Studios hits the mark. They recognize the challenge of overly lengthy co-op games and smartly adjust to keep their audiences hooked without overstaying their welcome.
Split Fiction doesn’t just offer a thoughtful story; it includes 20 Achievements that can extend the gameplay for those who love a good challenge.
The initial response to Split Fiction is nothing short of impressive, with one million copies sold in just the first 48 hours, surpassing the early success of It Takes Two. With other big releases like Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 and Monster Hunter Wilds, the early part of 2025 is shaping up to be significant for gamers. Given its strong sales and positive reviews, Split Fiction has the potential to become a contender for Game of the Year.
Despite the rich roster of anticipated games in 2025, Split Fiction offers a unique genre-blending experience, making it a memorable addition for players looking for something both thrilling and a bit different. Hazelight Studios has once again proven their knack for creating engaging co-op experiences, and fans will no doubt be eager to see what they come up with next.
