A Nostalgic Return to Couch Co-op
I spent most of my childhood playing couch co-op games, from the epic battles in Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King to the intense multiplayer action in Gears of War. My sister and I bonded over everything from hitting strikes in Wii Sports to outsmarting Juggernauts in MW2 Spec Ops. We even rode a polar bear in Crash Bash and raced against the virus in TimeSplitters: Future Perfect. These games not only taught us camaraderie and teamwork but also provided us with countless hours of entertainment and shared memories. Now, Split Fiction has reignited that same sense of joy and nostalgia, offering us a familiar yet fresh co-op experience.
A Unique Blend of Sci-fi and Fantasy
Split Fiction takes a innovative approach by merging popular pre-existing ideas into a highly unique game. While the story might not be groundbreaking, its delivery and the seamless blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements make it stand out. Each chapter introduces new mechanics and settings, ensuring that the game feels fresh and exciting. The game often left me wondering, "How hasn’t this been done before?" Hazelight Studios, known for their excellent co-op titles, has once again brought couch co-op into the spotlight, where it deserves to shine.
Refreshing and Engaging Gameplay
The gameplay in Split Fiction is a breath of fresh air, ensuring you’re never bored. It borrows elements from various games, such as Crash Bandicoot, Rocket League, Rayman, and even Hogwarts Legacy, with clear nods to Assassin’s Creed and It Takes Two. Some scenes feel like they were lifted directly from a blockbuster movie, like crashing mid-air through multiple skyscrapers or engaging in high-speed chases. This interactive movie experience is crafted with precision, making it addictive and hard to put down. Each chapter adapts to the genre and personality of the characters, Mio and Zoe, providing both players with different tools and challenges to tackle.
Spectacular Audiovisuals and Attention to Detail
Split Fiction is a feast for the senses, boasting amazing sound design, gorgeous level design, and impeccable attention to detail. The visuals are breathtaking, from the bustling sci-fi cityscapes to the mystical fantasy realms. The game’s attention to detail is evident in small touches like different run cycles for the characters and dialogue that includes echoes when running through an underpass. These nuances enhance the immersive experience, making the game feel rich and alive. The characters, Mio and Zoe, are well-written and distinct, with their respective tools and playstyles reflecting their personalities.
Humorous and Memorable Moments
Entertainment in Split Fiction extends beyond just the core gameplay mechanics. The Side Stories are filled with surreal and hilarious moments that will stay with you for years. The game isn’t afraid to include some bad puns and cringey dialogue, but it does so with a sense of self-awareness that makes it endearing. One particularly memorable scene saw my sister and I driving away from the cops as I controlled the motorbike, while she tried to disable the bike’s self-destruct sequence by completing facial recognition, reading terms and conditions, and filling out CAPTCHAs before it blew up. We couldn’t stop laughing as she struggled to read the fine print while I accelerated into walls in my distraction.
A Heartwarming Adventure
The story of Split Fiction is simple, centered around aspiring writers Mio, a lover of sci-fi, and Zoe, a lover of fantasy. While their relationship and character arcs follow familiar patterns—strangers becoming friends through their differences—the simplicity works in the game’s favor. Neither character is boring, annoying, or repetitive, which pairs well with the dynamic and varied gameplay. The game feels like a therapy session for Mio and Zoe, with players enjoying the ride. The occasional inconsistencies in the story are forgivable, given the game’s emphasis on entertainment and its highly forgiving nature with generous checkpoints. Split Fiction is a fantastic entry into the couch co-op genre, perfect for those looking for endless fun and a creative escape.
Conclusion
Split Fiction is a couch co-op powerhouse, full of hilarious moments and incredible cinematics. Although the overarching plot is basic and some storylines predictable, the game’s strength lies in its gameplay variety and attention to detail. It’s a highly entertaining experience that is perfect for anyone looking to relive the joy of playing video games with friends and family. The game’s forgiving nature and lack of hand-holding make it accessible and refreshing, ensuring that players are always engaged and never frustrated. Split Fiction is a must-play for those who appreciate the power of co-op gameplay and the magic of shared experiences.
