Hazelight Studios introduces New Narrative Expansions for Split Fiction

The Story So Far

Imagine this: you and your co-op partner dive into the world of Split Fiction, where you take on the roles of Mio and Zoe, two writers caught in a bizarre simulation at the sketchy Rader Publishing headquarters. They’re chasing after a golden publishing deal when an accident merges their realities, tossing them between their own sci-fi and fantasy tales. All the while, this shady publishing company is scheming to snatch their creative ideas. Sounds wild, right?

What Are Side Stories?

If you’ve enjoyed games like A Way Out or It Takes Two, you already know that Hazelight Studios has a knack for inventive co-op gameplay. In addition to the rich sci-fi and fantasy narratives in the main story, you’ll stumble upon quirky, out-of-place portals. These portals lead to optional adventures that whisk you away to entirely new worlds, each brimming with surprises.

So, what exactly are these Side Stories? Well, they’re like delightful little detours that pop up because Mio and Zoe are trapped in this simulation. Think of them as portals that attempt to siphon off the unfinished tales and ideas from their younger selves. What do you get? A chaotic mix of bizarre and beautiful scenarios that’ll keep you on your toes.

Without giving away too much, you can look forward to some truly outlandish Side Stories. Picture this: a nail-biting mountain climb with giants, racing across a desert on magical Sandfish, or even snowboarding down a mountain while dodging bullets. And that’s just scratching the surface! Other escapades might have you turning into pigs to discover how sausages are made, water-skiing against foes, or floating through space on a hilariously botched spacewalk. Each of these scenarios is a wild ride that adds a splash of unpredictability to your journey through Split Fiction.

As Mio and Zoe navigate these Side Stories, they’ll rediscover long-buried memories and secrets from their past. Once they complete a Side Story, they’ll return through the portal to the main level, fueled by a newfound determination to escape Rader’s clutches with their stories—and memories—intact. So, are you ready to take on this challenge?

Fun Fact

Here’s a fun tidbit: Hazelight Studios hosts internal Game Jams alongside their regular development process. This is where the team collaborates to brainstorm all sorts of zany gameplay mechanics and unexpected plot twists. The best ideas from these sessions find their way into the game, ensuring that players get to experience co-op moments that are nothing short of mind-blowing. That’s how the Side Stories come alive for you to explore at launch!

The Friends Pass

And let’s not forget about the Friends Pass—a staple feature making a comeback in Split Fiction. Just like in A Way Out and It Takes Two, if you own the game, you can invite a friend to join you online for free! Plus, Hazelight is rolling out crossplay, making it easier than ever to team up with friends across Playstation, XBOX, and PC (via Steam).

Feeling pumped about Split Fiction? We thought so! To dive deeper into the game and chat about all things Split Fiction, join the Hazelight Discord community. And don’t forget to follow Hazelight on Instagram for sneak peeks leading up to the launch. Trust us, you won’t want to miss it!