The gaming world is buzzing about Josef Fares' latest creation, Split Fiction, following early access by the press. The game currently boasts impressive aggregate scores: a 91 on Metacritic and a 90 on OpenCritic. Reviewers consistently praise its innovative approach to gameplay, constantly introducing fresh mechanics that prevent monotony. However, some critics point to a relatively weak narrative and shorter playtime as minor drawbacks.
Here's a sampling of the critical response:
- Gameractor UK, GameSpot, Inverse, Push Square, PC Games, TechRadar Gaming, Variety, Eurogamer: 100/100
- Areajugones: 95/100
- IGN USA, GameSpuer, Quiteshockers, PlayStation Lifestiles, Vandal: 90/100
- Stevivor, TheGamer, VGC, Wccftech: 80/100
- Hardcore Gamer: 70/100
“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.” — Gameractor UK (100/100)
“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.” — Eurogamer (100/100)
“Split Fiction is a masterfully crafted co-op adventure game… a rollercoaster of ideas and gameplay styles… 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…” — IGN USA (90/100)
“Visually, Split Fiction takes a significant step forward… though the two games share many similarities in terms of mechanics. At times, the game risks becoming repetitive… but its rich selection of side stories and ever-changing mechanics ensure that the gameplay remains engaging… the same cannot be said for its plot, which leaves something to be desired.” — VGC (80/100)
“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… a solid project, though it falls short of the expectations set by the studio’s previous game.” — Hardcore Gamer (70/100)
Split Fiction launches March 6, 2025, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
