Split Fiction Hype!!


 

Greetings fellow aliens! We’re almost to March which means one thing and one thing only – okay two things – Leprechauns and Hazelight Studios' likely next hit, Split Fiction! If you have not played either A Way Out or 2021’s Game of the Year, It Takes Two grab a partner and go play them! They are both incredible in their own way, cooperatively dynamic, immersive and engaging stories – the list could go on! I am genuinely excited to play Split Fiction and see just how Hazelight is going to push things forward and experience what they have in store for us with new co-op puzzles and, ultimately, a new adventure!

From what I have seen so far, it appears Split Fiction is looking to introduce players to a mysterious multiverse filled with shifting environments and unexpected twists. The game follows two protagonists, namely Mio and Zoe, navigating a constantly evolving world, where each decision alters the landscape and the very rules of play. This dynamic storytelling is the root of what makes these titles so fantastic and bring a new level of cooperation in gaming. Just like in the other titles, puzzles and challenges require both players to think creatively and communicate effectively, leading to a shared experience that not a lot of other games can provide.  

As with the other titles, the shared experience really blooms with the key asymmetrical mechanics that truly make these Hazelight classics truly unique! Players won’t just be performing similar tasks in different spaces; each character has distinct abilities and interacts with the world in unique ways. This design forces players to rely on each other, creating nuance and promoting replayability as no two playthroughs are going be exactly the same! Especially if you switch roles for the next go. From manipulating time to altering gravity, the game continually introduces fresh mechanics that challenge players to adapt on the fly.
 

Another aspect I am looking forward to seeing in this title is how Hazelight seamlessly blends their story telling. Instead of relying solely on cutscenes, Hazelight does such a great job bringing the player along the ride in these "transitions". It really feels like you are playing the cutscenes in previous titles and then, blamo, you're back to actually playing and continuing the story! Really looking forward to seeing Split Fiction innovate and continue this feel! Making players feel like they are actively shaping the story rather than just following along makes the story that much more incredible. The dialogue and interactions feel organic, allowing for emotional moments to land with greater impact on those heart strings. Now readers, put a finger down if you cried during It Takes Two. *puts a finger down*. Me too. Alright, let’s keep going.  

Although, above all, is the world! What is a story with a captivating environment to experience!? This new adventure sets place in various environments set forth by the characters themselves, with cooperative elements further amplified by the game’s vibrant and stylized world. From what I have seen, there are a ton of different environments we are going to be exploring in this one. But not only environments, but really environmental themes, if you will. From a futuristic looking vibe, to fantasy-ridden world with dragons, I am excited to see the different areas we get to run around in. Each environment is said to shift and morph depending on the characters' actions, creating a visually striking experience that keeps players engaged. Hazelight did an incredible job in It Takes Two keeping the player engaged with their world building - from a tiny toy perspective. I will be expecting some magic in this one!
  

Again, my dearest Alien readers, I implore you to go grab the closest alien and play some A Way Out and/or It Takes Two before next month! You won't regret it. Get a taste of Hazelight Studios' glory and how they have continually redefined what co-op gaming can be. I have no doubt they are on track to elevate this genre once again with Split Fiction! We are looking at a game that’s going to be building on these past successes but also taking bold new steps forward.

Are you as excited about Split Fiction as I am? Have you played one of the previous titles? What is your favorite true co-op game?! Let's chat about it in the comments! 

Check out Split Fiction on Steam!