Split Fiction, the latest offering from Hazelight Studios, creators of It Takes Two, is a cooperative adventure that weaves together various sci-fi and fantasy worlds. While the game doesn't introduce groundbreaking elements, it excels in executing familiar gameplay mechanics with exceptional polish. The narrative revolves around two characters, Zoe and Mio, who find themselves trapped in a machine designed to extract their creative ideas. Despite its heavy-handed commentary on generative AI and corporate greed, the game shines through its co-op experience, which demands precise teamwork and offers memorable moments.

The game's strength lies in its cooperative gameplay, which requires players to work closely together, using complementary abilities to navigate diverse environments. Although the story and individual levels may fade from memory quickly, the overall experience remains enjoyable. Split Fiction successfully captures the essence of true cooperation, making it an ideal choice for couples or friends looking for a fun, collaborative gaming experience.

Cooperative Gameplay: A Core Strength

Split Fiction thrives on its requirement for genuine collaboration between players. Each level introduces new powers that are only effective when used in tandem, ensuring that both participants must communicate and coordinate effectively. This design fosters a deep sense of partnership, as players rely on each other to progress through challenging scenarios. The game's ability to accommodate different skill levels makes it accessible to a wide range of players, including parents and children.

One standout moment involved a pinball-inspired sequence where one player controlled the paddles while the other managed the ball. This high-stakes task required perfect timing and communication, creating an exhilarating experience that felt almost like a fusion of minds and bodies. Another highlight was how character choices reflected players' personalities, adding a personal touch to the gameplay. For instance, one player might gravitate towards sci-fi elements, while the other enjoys fantasy settings, mirroring real-life preferences. These moments of alignment between gameplay and personal traits enhanced the overall enjoyment of the game.

Mixed Bag of Story and Levels

The narrative of Split Fiction, though not particularly innovative, serves as a vehicle for exploring themes of creativity and exploitation. The overarching plot about a corporation attempting to monopolize storytelling is delivered with a heavy hand but remains relevant in today's context. While the story itself may be forgettable, the way it unfolds through various virtual simulations provides an engaging backdrop for the gameplay. The game's references to other titles add an extra layer of enjoyment for seasoned gamers who appreciate these nods.

However, the individual levels tend to blur together due to their generic nature. Unlike games that leave lasting impressions with distinct and memorable segments, Split Fiction's levels lack the uniqueness to carve out a place in players' memories. For example, the shapeshifting mechanic allowed players to transform into different creatures, each with unique abilities, but the specifics of these transformations were soon forgotten. Similarly, a sci-fi section featured weapons with gravity-altering capabilities, yet the details faded quickly after completion. Despite this, the final boss fight offered a refreshing twist, providing a satisfying conclusion to the game. Overall, Split Fiction delivers a fun and cooperative experience, even if its components don't stand out individually.