In the world of cooperative gaming, few experiences have captured the magic of teamwork and storytelling quite like those crafted by Hazelight Studios. Their latest masterpiece, “Split Fiction,” once again demonstrates the studio’s brilliance in delivering a blend of creativity and camaraderie through gameplay.
“Split Fiction” follows the journey of Zoe and Mio, two aspiring authors who participate in a groundbreaking experiment by a futuristic corporation named Rader. This experiment allows creative minds to immerse themselves in virtual realities of their own making. However, the seemingly innocuous opportunity soon reveals a sinister truth: participants’ ideas are being exploited. When Mio resists, she inadvertently becomes entangled in Zoe’s virtual world, merging their imaginative realities and setting the exerience up for adventure.
The game’s narrative explores the intricate bonds of friendship as Zoe and Mio, initially strangers, grow closer while navigating challenges and discovering their motivations for joining the experiment.
What sets “Split Fiction” apart is its core premise, where writers traverse dreamscape worlds born from their imaginations. This concept serves as a canvas for virtually anything to happen, ensuring every twist and turn feels integral to the story, it’s a game that seamlessly blends its components into a cohesive whole.
As a lover of all things both Sci-fi and Fantasy it was brilliant to see the two worlds mix in a way to reflect the writers’ creative inclinations.
“Split Fiction” is commited to cooperative gameplay, meaning you will have to be too. The split-screen format is a trademark of Hazelight and helps to foster a dynamic partnership between players, I love how this studio seems to be single handedly commited to bringing back the joy of couch co-op, even if you are on different couches in different countries.
Mechanically, “Split Fiction” excels with its robust platforming foundation. Every gameplay element, no matter how fleeting, feels meticulously designed. The game’s intuitive controls ensure players can navigate challenges with ease, even as they manage complementary abilities in tandem with their partner.
There’s a real Yin and Yang parallel to each character offering compelling reasons for players to revisit the game from the other side of the couch. This offers a true replayability to the online co-op experience, devoid of technical hiccups which is a suprise in the modern gaming era, especially when you add “cross-platform” to the equasion.
Finding someone to play with can be an issue, but the “friend pass” goes a long way to solving that problem. It allows two players to experience the full game on one purchase. This innovation, alongside the game’s narrative depth and inventive gameplay, reinforces “Split Fiction” as quality consumer first product.
Graphically the environments are thoughtfully crafted with a deep appreciation for their respective genres. The game strikes a balance between breathtaking set pieces and serene moments of reflection, often inviting players to pause and appreciate the stunning vistas.
Ultimately, “Split Fiction” is a near-perfect game. The storytelling is tighter and more engaging than its predecessors, enhanced by well-paced and brilliantly acted delivery. It stands as a remarkable narrative journey that celebrates the enduring power of friendship and will bring friends together beyond the game through play.
