Split Fiction, from Swedish developer Hazelight, has solidified its place as one of this generation’s most beloved co-op games. This manic mash-up of science fiction and fantasy brings together a range of familiar characters in an immersive adventure that lets players savor countless spectacles. Set across eight chapters, the game follows two aspiring authors, Zoe and Mio, as they escape a computer simulation created by their publisher.
The pair’s contrasting personalities – Zoe is bubbly and optimistic, while Mio is curt and wary – are perfectly captured from the start. As they navigate various settings, including a bucolic forest and neon-lit cyberpunk city, players work together to solve environmental puzzles and overcome obstacles.
A key aspect of Split Fiction’s charm lies in its expertly crafted side stories, which often pay homage to iconic cartoons and films. These sections offer breathtaking transitions between environments and showcase the game’s ability to balance play styles.
While some may find the obvious character arcs and pastiche elements of Split Fiction, this critic remains unimpressed. The game’s big guns, swords, and dragons are presented in a way that feels radical by its own creative standards. What truly sets it apart is its ability to marry gameplay mechanics with an endearing narrative.
A polished package like no other, Split Fiction proves itself as one of the best co-op experiences of this generation, surpassing even Astro Bot’s grand ambitions.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/05/arts/split-fiction-review.html