Split Fiction review

• Available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC
• Released on 6 March 2025
• Developed by Hazelight Studios

Hazelight Studios had a high bar to clear after the wild success of It Takes Two, and somehow, they’ve done it again. Split Fiction is an outrageously creative co-op adventure that launches players into a mashup of fantasy and sci-fi, offering non-stop surprises across its 12-hour journey. It’s imaginative, polished, and packed with personality.

You’ll play as Zoe and Mio, two authors who find themselves trapped in their own stories after a publishing machine goes haywire. Zoe’s written fantasy, Mio’s a sci-fi author, and their blended worlds create one of the most unique and varied gaming backdrops in recent memory. The gameplay constantly flips between the two genres, keeping things fresh and unpredictable. One minute you’re dodging neon lasers in a cyberpunk city, the next you’re sprouting trees and rolling through lush landscapes on dragonback.

From the get-go, Split Fiction throws you into the action. The pacing is relentless, but in the best way. You’ll zipline across futuristic highways, solve puzzles with magnetism and hacking, or navigate treacherous terrain with treant powers. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, the game shifts again: into 2D platforming, isometric action, or even full-on pinball.

Optional side stories add even more fun. These quick detours let you play out quirky scenes from Zoe and Mio’s past writings, and they’re bursting with charm. Whether you’re farting rainbows as a pig or boarding through snowy slopes, they’re short, sweet, and totally worthwhile.

A big part of what makes Split Fiction work so well is how different Zoe and Mio always feel. No matter what wild world you’re in, each character has unique powers that demand communication and teamwork. This isn’t a game to play with a stranger — grab a good friend and enjoy figuring it all out together.

Boss fights stand out as some of the most inventive set pieces. They’re huge, chaotic, and a bit tricky at times, but never unfair. One minute you’re battling a massive knight, the next you’re dodging drills from a robotic dentist. It’s all ridiculous in the best way.

Visually, the game shines. On PS5 Pro, it looks beautiful and runs smoothly even in split screen. Some tiny bugs and occasional awkward respawn points pop up, but they’re minor inconveniences in an otherwise stellar experience. Checkpoints are generous, and the game keeps frustration to a minimum.

In the end, Split Fiction sets a new standard for co-op gaming. It’s a joyful, genre-hopping celebration of storytelling and creativity, offering the kind of magic that’s rare in modern games. If you’ve got a second player ready, don’t miss this one.