Hazelight Studios has built a reputation for co-op games that force two players to truly work together. After A Way Out and the award-winning It Takes Two, Split Fiction raises the bar again. It is a game that constantly surprises, and one we enjoyed most when shouting instructions at each other from opposite ends of the sofa.
The story
Split Fiction follows two writers, Mio and Zoe. Mio writes science fiction, while Zoe writes fantasy. Both are invited to a publishing company that has built a machine to turn their stories into experiences. When they discover the company wants to steal their ideas, they get trapped inside the simulation.
As a result, the adventure jumps between Mio’s futuristic worlds and Zoe’s magical ones. The two characters start as strangers with very different personalities and slowly learn to trust each other. The story is easy to follow and has some emotional moments, although it does not surprise much.
Co-op only
Split Fiction must be played with two players, either on the same screen or online. There is no solo mode. The good news is the Friend’s Pass, which lets one player buy the game and invite a friend to play with them for free online. This is fantastic value and makes it easy to convince a friend to join.
Gameplay variety
The biggest strength of Split Fiction is its endless variety. One moment you are riding motorcycles through a neon city. The next you are turning into animals in a fantasy forest, solving puzzles with gravity or fighting giant bosses. Each player often has different abilities, so you must coordinate. One might control time while the other moves objects, or one might be a fast creature while the other is strong.
Ideas rarely stay around for long. As soon as you get comfortable with a mechanic, the game moves on to something new. This keeps the pace exciting from start to finish.
Side stories
Throughout the game you can find optional side stories. These are short, creative detours that often play like mini-games with completely different rules. Some are among the most memorable moments in the whole game, so we recommend looking for them.
Visuals and performance
The worlds look excellent, from shiny sci-fi cities to colourful fantasy kingdoms. Split-screen performance is generally smooth, and the art direction makes both genres feel distinct.
Length
The main story takes around 12 to 15 hours, depending on how many side stories you find. It is the perfect length for a few weekend sessions with a friend, partner or sibling.
Weaknesses
The story is the weakest part. Characters are likeable, but the plot follows familiar beats. Some sections end before their ideas are fully explored, which can feel rushed. And of course, if you do not have a partner to play with, you cannot play at all.
Tips for players
- Use voice chat or sit together; communication is key
- Look for side stories; they are some of the best moments
- Swap characters on a second playthrough for a new perspective
- Do not rush; take time to enjoy the details
Who is it for?
Split Fiction is ideal for couples, best friends and siblings who enjoy playing together. It is accessible for less experienced players but still offers challenge for veterans. Fans of It Takes Two will love it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play Split Fiction alone? No. It requires two players.
Does my friend need to buy the game? Not if you use the Friend’s Pass for online play.
Is it suitable for younger players? It contains some action violence, so parents should check the age rating.
Playing online versus on the same sofa
Split Fiction works well both online and locally, but the experience is slightly different. On the same sofa, you share one screen split in two, which leads to lots of laughter and pointing at each other’s side of the screen. It is perfect for couples or siblings.
Online, each player has their own screen, which gives a cleaner view. Using voice chat is essential, because many puzzles require timing your actions together. The Friend’s Pass makes online play especially attractive, since your friend only needs to download the pass to join you.
Accessibility for less experienced players
Hazelight designs its games so that both players can have fun even if one is less experienced. Checkpoints are frequent, and if one player falls, they usually respawn quickly while the other continues. This keeps the flow going and reduces frustration.
That said, some boss fights and platforming sections do require reasonable reaction times. If one partner rarely plays games, the stronger player may need to take the role that needs more precise control. Swapping roles on a second playthrough is a fun way to see the other side of the story.
How it compares to It Takes Two
It Takes Two focused on a relationship story and a family theme, with many ideas built around household objects. Split Fiction shifts to genre fiction and spectacle, with bigger set pieces and more dramatic action. We think Split Fiction has the stronger variety, while It Takes Two has the slightly warmer story. If you loved one, you will almost certainly enjoy the other.
Performance and settings
On PC, Split Fiction runs well on mid-range hardware, and lowering a few graphics options gives a smooth experience in split-screen. On PS5 and Xbox Series X, performance is stable and loading times are short. If you are playing on a large television, sit a little closer than usual; the split-screen view makes some small details harder to see from far away.
Value for money
Because one purchase covers two players thanks to the Friend’s Pass, Split Fiction offers strong value. Waiting for a seasonal sale makes it even better, but we think it is worth full price for two people who will play it together.
Verdict
Split Fiction is one of the most creative games of recent years. Its constant variety, smart co-op design and generous Friend’s Pass make it an easy recommendation. If you have someone to play with, do not miss it.
