Split Fiction is a co-op action-adventure game developed by Hazelight Studios, the team known for It Takes Two. Released in March 2025 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, it follows two writers named Mio and Zoe who get trapped in their own imaginative worlds after a machine steals their ideas. This setup leads to a story of friendship and collaboration, where players switch between sci-fi and fantasy settings to solve puzzles and face challenges together.
Gameplay
In Split Fiction, the core loop revolves around cooperative play, with each player controlling one of the protagonists. Mio handles sci-fi elements, while Zoe deals with fantasy aspects, and their abilities complement each other to progress through levels. Players master various tools and skills that change based on the world they're in, such as using cyber ninja moves in sci-fi sections or taming creatures in fantasy areas. The game emphasizes teamwork, requiring coordination to overcome obstacles like escaping trolls or dodging robotic threats. Reviews highlight how the mechanics keep things fresh with constant shifts between genres, creating moments of surprise and requiring quick adaptation.
Mechanics include ability-based puzzles and action sequences that demand precise timing and communication between partners. For instance, one player might manipulate technology while the other casts spells, blending the two styles seamlessly. This design ensures that both participants are always engaged, with no downtime for either role.
Game Modes
Split Fiction focuses exclusively on co-op mode, designed for two players to experience the story together. It supports both local split-screen and online play, allowing friends to join from different locations. There are no competitive modes or solo options mentioned in official details, making it a pure cooperative adventure from start to finish.
Story and Worlds
The narrative centers on Mio and Zoe's journey to escape their trapped states, exploring contrasting worlds that reflect their writing styles. Sci-fi sections feature high-tech environments with elements like hover vehicles and robotic enemies, while fantasy parts include mythical creatures and magical landscapes. This duality drives the plot, with the characters relying on each other to navigate and resolve conflicts in these blended realities.
Player feedback often praises the story's emotional depth, noting how it builds on themes of creativity and partnership similar to the studio's previous work, though some critiques point out inconsistencies compared to earlier titles.
Is It Worth Playing?
With strong positive reception from major outlets like IGN and GameSpot, Split Fiction stands out for its innovative co-op design and engaging story. User reviews on platforms highlight it as one of the best games played, with peak concurrent players nearing 200,000 on PC shortly after launch. It's particularly recommended for those who enjoy teamwork-focused adventures and have a reliable partner, as the game's strengths shine in shared sessions. However, if solo play is preferred, it might not fit, given its co-op-only structure. As of early 2026, the game remains supported with no major updates announced, but its core experience continues to draw in new players seeking creative multiplayer action.
