Split Fiction Breathes Fresh Life Into Co-op Adventures
Split Fiction is an action-packed co-op adventure. It’s filled with humor and heartfelt moments. Players help Zoe and Mio escape simulations based on their creations. “The Machine” pulls ideas from their head in an attempt for a publisher to steal them. It does require a player two, which can add its own difficulties. As well as unintentionally hilarious moments. Playing with a friend can also make the conflicting personalities of the protagonists more immersive. The grumpy/sunshine pairing is a well worn trope that could otherwise be ignored.
Abilities are split between characters. This keeps either player from carrying the other. Of course that means teamwork is imperative. In a couch co-op situation it may be easier to work around this. There are a few odd moments of difficulty spikes. Otherwise the game is fairly balanced.
The narrative doesn’t take itself too seriously. Both characters are young, still finding footing in their careers. The game has some cheesiness but its mechanics are filled with innovation. It’s overwhelming at times because something new is introduced just as the last change becomes familiar. Which shows that cliches can still be entertaining when executed properly. Players will follow Mio and Zoe through expansive worlds.
Split Fiction is a strong enough game to stand on its own. It’s also filled with tongue-in-cheek references to other games. It’s a game about celebrating creativity. The antagonist himself is probably the weakest part, feeling more cartoonish than truly threatening. This flaw can be easily ignored during gameplay. Split Fiction can be enjoyed even with a player two who’s newer to platforming, wall jumping, and other abilities. This makes it perfect to enjoy during some downtime.
