Divided Narratives: The Future Standard for Co-Op Gaming

Split Fiction has quickly emerged as a standout co-op game, and its innovative level design is just the beginning. Developed by Hazelight Studios, this title takes players on a captivating journey through dynamic sci-fi and fantasy settings, showcasing an exciting range of gameplay mechanics. It’s a notable leap forward from the studio’s previous hit, It Takes Two. But, beyond the mechanics, there’s even more to celebrate.

Hazelight Studios continues to push the boundaries of storytelling in co-op games, a genre ripe with potential. What truly sets Hazelight apart is their unwavering commitment to putting players first, prioritizing creativity and player enjoyment above profits. Split Fiction isn’t just another game; it’s a testament to the studio’s dedication and the kind of imaginative experience that the industry should strive to create.

One of Hazelight Studios’ signature features is the Friend’s Pass, a concept that allows only one player to own the game for two people to dive into its world. This bold move cuts potential profits but solidifies the studio’s player-first philosophy. While there will always be gamers who do purchase individual copies, the Friend’s Pass is a risk that has undeniably paid off, reflecting their genuine goodwill toward the gaming community.

Activating the Friend’s Pass is straightforward. Once in the main menu, players can select "Play Online," invite their friend, and send an invitation by finding their friend’s username. If they’re gaming on different platforms, enabling crossplay is a breeze.

When announcing Split Fiction at The Game Awards, director Josef Fares was refreshingly direct, declaring, "No loot boxes, no microtransactions, no bull****." In a gaming world often dominated by in-game purchases, Hazelight’s stance is a breath of fresh air. Although games like Fortnite rely on microtransactions for their free-to-play models, big titles like Call of Duty charge full price and include them too, leading to player frustration. Hazelight proves that great sales can come from offering a complete experience for one initial purchase, and their record-breaking million sales within the first 48 hours of release is proof of that.

Despite interest from outside companies, Hazelight is not on the market. In an interview with MinnMax, Fares made it clear that they plan to remain independent, avoiding acquisitions that could stifle their creativity. Staying true to their vision allows them to continue crafting exceptional games while keeping the player experience at the forefront.

Hazelight Studios seems content with their current approach, which is exciting news for gamers everywhere. Their model not only delivers fun and engaging games but also assures fans that the player experience remains central to their mission.