Hazelight Studios, led by the visionary director Josef Fares—both a renowned film director and video game designer—is set to release Split Fiction, a new cooperative adventure that promises to captivate gamers in 2025. Fares, best known for his work on the highly acclaimed co-op experiences It Takes Two and A Way Out, brings a fresh take with this new title. Combining elements of sci-fi and fantasy, Split Fiction aims to offer players a unique, genre-blending experience while continuing the studio’s legacy of groundbreaking storytelling through collaboration.
A Complex Narrative That Bridges Two Worlds
At the heart of Split Fiction is an engaging narrative about two protagonists, Mio and Zoe, whose stories are intertwined despite coming from different genres. Mio, a science fiction writer, and Zoe, a fantasy novelist, become trapped in a virtual simulation of their own stories, constructed by the mysterious Rader Publishing company. The game challenges players to navigate between two distinct worlds—one sci-fi and the other fantasy—each with its own rules and environments. The journey is not just about survival, but about discovering how imagination shapes reality and how stories can collide.
This blending of genres offers players a rich storytelling experience, with a focus on creativity and the power of collaboration. As the narrative unfolds, Split Fiction presents a nuanced exploration of both characters’ worlds, tapping into themes of identity, control, and the nature of storytelling.
Innovative Gameplay That Demands Cooperation
In true Hazelight fashion, Split Fiction is designed around cooperative gameplay. The game revolves around Mio and Zoe, whose abilities are specifically tailored to their respective genres. This dynamic creates opportunities for players to work together in innovative ways to solve puzzles, navigate challenges, and defeat enemies.
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Each world presents unique gameplay elements that require players to coordinate their actions, highlighting the importance of teamwork. The sci-fi world may involve tech-based puzzles and futuristic combat, while the fantasy world offers magical abilities and environmental challenges. Together, the mechanics ensure that players are constantly engaged, relying on each other’s strengths to progress.
Additionally, Split Fiction includes side stories—optional narrative arcs that delve deeper into the characters’ backgrounds, providing players with more context and allowing them to explore even more of the game’s rich world.
Visual and Audio Design: A Feast for the Senses
The visual design of Split Fiction reflects the contrast between the sci-fi and fantasy elements. The game showcases stunning art direction, with each world carefully crafted to reflect its genre. From sleek, high-tech environments to lush, mystical landscapes, the transitions between these worlds are seamless, providing players with a visually dynamic experience.
Additionally, the audio design plays a crucial role in setting the tone for each world. Whether it’s the sound of futuristic machinery or the enchanting hum of a magical realm, the game’s soundscapes enhance the immersive quality of the experience. With 60 frames per second on next-gen consoles, Split Fiction delivers smooth gameplay alongside its striking visual design.
Josef Fares’ Vision for Split Fiction
Under the direction of Josef Fares, Split Fiction is not just another co-op game. Fares, known for his bold and innovative approach to game design, has created a narrative-driven experience that challenges players to think critically about the worlds they inhabit. Fares’ signature focus on deep, emotional storytelling and cooperative play continues to shine in Split Fiction, with the game exploring how narrative, genre, and gameplay can blend together seamlessly.
Fares has often spoken about the importance of collaboration in his games, and Split Fiction is no exception. The game’s design encourages players to work together, not just to overcome obstacles, but to engage with the story in meaningful ways. Through this cooperative narrative, Fares aims to create an experience that is both emotionally rich and mechanically challenging, offering something unique in the realm of co-op gaming.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of 2025 Release
As the release of Split Fiction draws closer, anticipation is growing among fans of Hazelight Studios and co-op gaming enthusiasts alike. The game’s innovative narrative, alongside its engaging gameplay mechanics, positions it as one of the most exciting titles of 2025. With It Takes Two winning numerous Game of the Year awards and receiving widespread acclaim, Split Fiction is expected to continue Hazelight’s legacy of delivering groundbreaking co-op experiences that push the boundaries of what games can achieve.
About Split Fiction
Split Fiction is set to release on March 6, 2025, offering a thrilling mix of platforming, action-adventure, shooting, and puzzle-solving gameplay. Developed by Hazelight Studios and powered by Unreal Engine 5, the game will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Microsoft Windows. With Josef Fares at the helm as director, Split Fiction is poised to deliver an unforgettable gaming experience. Published by Electronic Arts, the game promises to push the boundaries of cooperative storytelling.
About Hazelight Studios
Hazelight Studios, established in 2014 by Josef Fares in Stockholm, Sweden, is an independent game development company known for its creative approach to cooperative gaming. The studio gained international recognition for its titles like A Way Out and the critically acclaimed It Takes Two. With a diverse team of 81 professionals from 11 different countries, Hazelight continues to innovate in the realm of
