The upcoming adventure gameSplit Fictionwas just one of many exciting new titles that wererevealed during the 2024 Game Awards. This latest game from Hazelight Studios is another co-op multiplayer title thattakes players through the fictional worlds created by aspiring authorsMio and Zoe. Although only a limited amount of information was shown to audiences in the reveal trailer, it is enough to make one incredibly excited about what it has in store for players in the future.

This game comes off the heels of the incredibly successful and innovative 2021 Game Of The Year winner, theco-op adventureIt Takes Two. Much like the previous game,Split Fictionfocuses on co-op multiplayer gameplay to complete platforming challenges while also dealing with dangerous enemy encounters. Although some of the core concepts of this previous title still exist inSplit Fiction,this new game contains enough exciting content to help make it truly stand outfrom its predecessor.

It Takes Two Characters overlayed on an image of Mio and Zoe from Split Fiction

The Gameplay Takes Players Across Multiple Worlds & Genres

The Perfect Game For Fantasy & Sci-Fi Fans

One big draw ofSplit Fictionis the fact thatit will absolutely appeal to both fans of sci-fi and fantasythanks to its core concept of jumping between stories. The game will alternate between two different worlds, allowing for the exploration of two entirely different genres while simultaneously providing players with an incredibly engaging narrative. Despite the fact that these two genres might initially seem far too different to mesh well, Hazelight Studios seemingly finds a way to make them work incredibly well together without being too jarring, which only further adds to their appeal.

Split Fiction Continues Hazelight’s Legacy Of Revolutionizing Co-op Games

Hazelight has become synonymous with epic co-op adventures, and recent footage from Split Fiction appears to be taking that one step further.

Both worlds clearly showcase a wide variety of typical sci-fi and fantasy tropes, yet Hazelight has taken the time to ensure each one looks exciting and engaging. The fantasy world has magical plants, creatures like giants and dragons, as well as magical kingdoms to explore, while the sci-fi world has motorcycles, giant robots, and flashy high-tech gear. With so much to do and explore, there truly is something inSplit Fictionfor anyone who absolutely loves the fantasy or sci-fi genres.

Mio and Zoe with dragons on their back in Split Fiction

Unique Mechanics In Every Level Keep Things Fresh & Exciting

Giants, Dragons, Robots, And More

Incorporating numerous aspects and tropes from two different genres allows players to utilizenew gameplay mechanics in every levelto explore the worlds they find themselves in. Players will be able to ride on the backs of dragons, run along walls while swinging swords as cyber ninjas, and even dodge cards being thrown at them by a giant police robot handing out parking tickets. This means thateach level will have something different for players to enjoy, while simultaneously creating numerous memorable moments to create a truly wild ride that also encourages repeated playthroughs.

It is clear that Hazelight has taken many elements from numerous other beloved gamesand used them as inspiration for the various mechanics inSplit Fiction. The trailer revealed a giant flower that can shoot players onto other platforms, resembling the giant barrels inDonkey Kong 64, while one of the sci-fi levels lets players control ball droids that move around likeSamus Aran using her Morph Ball inMetroid. Players will no doubt have a blast finding the various references to other games in these mechanics, thereby further adding to the excitement during their gameplay experience.

J.D. Rader looking at Mio and Zoe in the simulation in Split Fiction

Split Fiction Highlights The Importance Of Human Creativity

A Very Relevant Narrative About Modern Entertainment Industries

One important detail regardingSplit Fiction’s narrative is the fact that it involves how Mio and Zoe work together toprevent their stories from being stolen by a machine. This particular detail is a major standout, as many creative individuals and industries are dealing with the rise of generative AI models and their use in creative fields.Split Fictioncould end up being a pointed commentary on how big corporations try to use AI to steal others' ideas, and how important it is that the creation of art in all its forms remains a human endeavor.

Ultimately, it is undeniable that by combining the fantasy and sci-fi genres together into one game, Hazelight Studios has created something truly special for their next upcoming title. On top of an engaging story, the gameplay has so much to offer by providing players with truly exciting and memorable experiences that will hopefully stick with them for a long time. Only time will tell just how muchSplit Fictionhas in store for players, but it is undeniable that it will absolutely be a wild ride for everyone involved.

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Source:Electronic Arts/YouTube

Split Fiction

InSplit Fiction, rival authors Mio and Zoe find themselves trapped within a simulation of their own stories by a nefarious tech mogul aiming to steal their work. Forced to collaborate, they navigate alternating sci-fi and fantasy realms, utilizing unique abilities to solve puzzles, overcome platforming challenges, and defeat formidable bosses. The game supports cooperative play through the Friend’s Pass system, allowing cross-play across PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X.

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