The gaming press has had its first hands-on experience with the latest title from acclaimed developer Josef Fares, Split Fiction, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The game currently holds an impressive average score of 91 on MetaCritic and 90 on OpenCritic, reflecting widespread critical acclaim.
Split Fiction has been celebrated for its relentless innovation, consistently introducing fresh gameplay mechanics that keep players engaged from beginning to end. Critics have praised its dynamic pacing and inventive design, though some have noted a relatively short playtime and a narrative that doesn’t quite match the strength of its gameplay.
Notable review scores include:
Gameractor UK – 100
GameSpot – 100
Inverse – 100
Push Square – 100
PC Games – 100
TechRadar Gaming – 100
Variety – 100
Eurogamer – 100
Areajugones – 95
IGN USA – 90
GameSpuer – 90
Quiteshockers – 90
PlayStation Lifestiles – 90
Vandal – 90
Stevivor – 80
TheGamer – 80
VGC – 80
Wccftech – 80
Hardcore Gamer – 70
Split Fiction is Hazelight Studios' finest achievement yet and stands as one of the most remarkable co-op experiences of this generation. The game dazzles with its variety, maintaining intense player engagement through a constant stream of inventive mechanics. While minor flaws exist, they are overshadowed by the game’s relentless creativity and flawless execution. It’s a bold celebration of innovation in interactive storytelling.
Gameractor UK — 100/100
From start to finish, Split Fiction delivers an exceptional adventure. As one of the most imaginative and immersive co-op titles available, it serves as a powerful testament to the limitless potential of creative game design.
Eurogamer — 100/100
Split Fiction is a masterfully designed co-op journey that blends genres with confidence and flair. It’s a high-speed cascade of ideas and gameplay styles, shifting rapidly over its 14-hour runtime. No mechanic overstays its welcome, making the experience a triumph of originality. Hazelight hasn’t just redefined co-op gaming—it’s written a new chapter that demands to be played, together.
IGN USA — 90/100
Visually, Split Fiction marks a significant leap forward from Hazelight’s previous title, It Takes Two, while retaining familiar mechanical foundations. At times, the frequent shifts between dual environments risk repetition, but the abundance of side content and evolving gameplay systems maintain a consistently engaging experience. However, the story falls short, lacking the emotional depth and cohesion expected from the studio.
VGC — 80/100
While Split Fiction is shorter and more expensive than It Takes Two, and doesn’t quite reach the same heights in originality and variety, it still offers a thrilling and enjoyable co-op adventure. It’s a well-crafted title, though it doesn’t fully meet the lofty expectations set by its predecessor.
Hardcore Gamer — 70/100
Split Fiction launches on March 6, 2025, for current-gen platforms including PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
