split fiction
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10/10
TLDR: Split Fiction is a breathtaking co-op experience with stunning visuals, intuitive gameplay, and a deeply immersive story. Its accessibility options, seamless teamwork mechanics, and emotional narrative make it a Game of the Year contender, though itâs so fun we wish it were longer!
Listen to our full review on YouTube
Reviewed by: đŻ Alokin (Advanced Gamer) & đş Oceanwolv (Casual Gamer)
OVERVIEW
Price: $50
Our playtime: 30+ hours
Coop style: Couch, Local, Online
Where to buy: Steam
About: Split Fiction is a unique action-adventure experience that keeps you on the edge of your couch with unexpected moments. One minute youâre taming adorable dragons and the next youâre fighting as cyber ninjas. Join Mio and Zoe on this epic adventure exploring different worlds.
â pros
ALOKIN
Extensive features + accessibility!
High level cinematic production
One-of-a-kind experience
OCEANWOLV
Beautifully crafted world and story
Side stories (side quests) are fun
Diverse range of gameplay
â cons
ALOKIN
Some moments of motion sickness
No player indicators
So fun, Iâm left wanting more!
OCEANWOLV
Mechanics are sometimes hard
Easy bosses
Game is not long enough!
đ¤źđ˝ co-op ability: 10/10
(how well the game supports teamwork and collaboration between players)
ALOKINâS RATING: 10/10
Split Fiction balances individual gameplay with co-op puzzles perfectly. Each challenge is unique while building on previous levels to keep gameplay fun and interesting. Youâll rely on teamwork and learn new mechanics. With fresh elements introduced in every level that require communication this game heavily relies on your ability to work as a team. You canât play the game without a second player.
OCEANWOLVâS RATING: 10/10
Split Fiction delivers the ultimate co-op experience by merging two characters and their stories into one immersive world. The natural progression and authentic characters make you truly invested in their journey. With vertical split screens, distinct worlds, and different strengths for each character, teamwork is key to success. This collaborative gameplay keeps players connected and engaged from start to finish.
đ¨ production quality: 10/10
(the design, artwork, components, and overall craft of the game's materials)
ALOKINâS RATING: 10/10
There were a lot of moments we had to pause just to admire the gameâs stunning detail. We found ourselves saying âLook here!â 'âDid you see that!?â. We even stopped in certain spots just so we can take a screengrab of the visuals. They were simply breathtaking, and the story was emotional, fun, and action-packed. Every aspect felt intentional, making the game feel truly complete. There wasnât many stones I felt needed to be turned.
OCEANWOLVâS RATING: 10/10
Everything about Split Fictionâs production quality is truly a 10/10. They are so intentional about creating a high quality game that is beautiful, expansive, and connected. Theyâve exceeded their production quality through the big details (e.g. side quests, different outfits per world, simplicity in the storyline) and the small details (e.g. animated leaves when you walk through them, the noice cancellation when youâre underwater).
đŽ gameplay mechanics: 10/10
(the game's rules, flow, balance, and how engaging and intuitive the gameplay feels)
ALOKINâS RATING: 10/10
The game introduces so many mechanics with all the different levels, perfecting each one is tough. But because they were so intentional with accessibility features, I am left impressed! Even with the ability to change options for each player! I give it a high rating because with so many mechanics, it didnât stop us from enjoying the game or learning them on-the-go.
OCEANWOLVâS RATING: 10/10
The gameplay is so intuitive that it almost felt too easy! There are only a handful of scenes where it took some time to figure out the challenges, but overall, the gameplay mechanics are fairly easy for the beginner and casual gamer. Character narrations act as hints and guide you through the controls seamlessly. Accessibility settings are highly customizable for each character, making it easy to tailor the experience.
𤊠overall fun: 10/10
(how enjoyable and entertaining the game is for immediate play and long-term re-playability)
ALOKINâS RATING: 10/10
This is a must-play and my top Game of the Year contender. Itâs the quintessential local co-op experience, delivering action, fun, and an unforgettable story. The game builds on everything It Takes Two did well, addressing past flaws and refining every aspect for Split Fiction. From start to finish, I was fully immersed. I even shed a few tears during the cutscenes! The epic ending was also a perfect way to wrap-up the game.
OCEANWOLVâS RATING: 10/10
This is the best co-op game! Itâs a perfect mix of character depth, natural storyline, and world-building, requiring different strengths and gameplays to progress at every level. Ideal for fans of teamwork, stories, puzzles, strategies, stunning art, and accessibility options. While replayability is low, hidden challenges and playing with someone new make it worth revisiting. Highly recommended for an unforgettable co-op experience!
TIPS TO START
(helpful insights as you begin the game)
ALOKINâS
Each character has a set of game mechanics theyâll be responsible for throughout the game more than the other. Although you will share responsibilities at times know that if you excel in one thing over the other, itâs preferred to play Mio or Zoe.
Zoeâs gameplay and story are a little slower paced and evolve around Fantasy elements
Mioâs is more intense and require action themes while focusing on Sci-fi worlds
Donât forget to communicate! This game requires a lot of chatting and sharing what you see on your screen. Itâs incredibly important and the only way to have a fun and smooth game experience.
OCEANWOLVâS
Select Zoe if you like or want to build on these skills: precision, climb, range attack
Select Mio if you like or want to build on these skills: aim, flight, close combat