The gaming community has been buzzing with anticipation and excitement following the previews of Josef Fares' latest masterpiece, *Split Fiction*. Developed by Hazelight Studios, the creators of the acclaimed *It Takes Two*, this new title has quickly garnered an impressive average score of 91 on MetaCritic and 90 on OpenCritic. Critics have lauded *Split Fiction* for its innovative approach to gameplay, constantly introducing fresh mechanics that keep the experience vibrant and engaging. However, some reviewers have noted that the game's narrative could be stronger and that its playtime might leave players wanting more.
Here's a glimpse at the scores from various gaming outlets:
- Gameractor UK - 100
- GameSpot - 100
- Inverse - 100
- Push Square - 100
- PC Games - 100
- TechRadar Gaming - 100
- Variety - 100
- Eurogamer - 100
- Areajugones - 95
- IGN USA - 90
- GameSpuer - 90
- Quiteshockers - 90
- PlayStation Lifestiles - 90
- Vandal - 90
- Stevivor - 80
- TheGamer - 80
- VGC - 80
- Wccftech - 80
- Hardcore Gamer - 70
*Split Fiction* is being hailed as Hazelight Studios' finest work yet and one of the standout co-op games of this generation. Critics have praised its ability to maintain a high level of engagement through a diverse array of gameplay mechanics. According to Gameractor UK, "Split Fiction is Hazelight Studios' best work to date and one of the most impressive co-op games of this generation. The game amazes with its variety, keeping players engaged at every moment. All mechanics are executed at the highest level, and while a couple of minor flaws can be found, they pale in comparison to the constant flow of new ideas the game introduces at every turn. It’s a true celebration of creativity and innovation."
Eurogamer echoed this sentiment, stating, "From start to finish, Split Fiction remains a fantastic adventure. It’s one of the most creative and engaging co-op games on the market, serving as a vivid testament to the boundless nature of human imagination."
IGN USA provided a detailed analysis, noting, "Split Fiction is a masterfully crafted co-op adventure game that straddles the line between two genres. It’s a rollercoaster of ideas and gameplay styles that shift at a breakneck pace, keeping the experience thrilling throughout its 14-hour runtime. Since no single mechanic overstays its welcome, Split Fiction becomes a triumph of imagination. Hazelight hasn’t just rewritten the rules of co-op gaming—it’s created a new chapter that you (and your partner) simply must experience."
VGC, while appreciating the game's visuals and mechanics, pointed out some shortcomings, saying, "Visually, Split Fiction takes a significant step forward compared to the studio’s previous project, It Takes Two, though the two games share many similarities in terms of mechanics. At times, the game risks becoming repetitive due to constant switching between two main locations, but its rich selection of side stories and ever-changing mechanics ensure that the gameplay remains engaging from start to finish. That said, the same cannot be said for its plot, which leaves something to be desired."
Hardcore Gamer offered a more reserved take, commenting, "Split Fiction is shorter and more expensive than It Takes Two, and while it lacks the originality and variety of its predecessor, it still delivers a fun and exciting experience for two players. It’s a solid project, though it falls short of the expectations set by the studio’s previous game."
*Split Fiction* is set to launch on March 6, 2025, and will be available on current-gen consoles (PS5, Xbox Series) and PC, promising an unforgettable co-op gaming experience.
