If you’re familiar with Hazelight Studios’ creations, you know they have a knack for developing characters packed with distinct personalities, intriguing backgrounds, and compelling motivations. This not only enriches the gaming experience but also provides moments you’ll remember long after the game concludes.
In their new release, Split Fiction, Hazelight Studios continues this tradition, introducing us to two fresh protagonists: Mio and Zoe. Available on PS5 from March 6, this game invites you to take on the roles of these unpublished authors, who couldn’t be more different. Drawn to Rader Publishing Headquarters by the temptation of a publishing contract, their visit takes a turn for the worse. They find themselves ensnared in a simulation of their own stories, and it’s up to you to help them find their way out. Here, we’ll delve into what makes Mio and Zoe tick, giving you a head start on choosing your favorite before you even get your hands on the game.
Mio Hudson, a science fiction writer, is all about keeping things real. She’s a city girl who has had to hustle to make ends meet. Fame isn’t on her radar; she’s in it for the paycheck. Her love for sci-fi is evident in her stories, featuring scenes set in neon-drenched cyberpunk landscapes and the chilling void of space. In the game, expect Mio to dazzle with her sci-fi-inspired abilities. Picture this: a gravity-defying ninja wielding a razor-sharp energy sword, donning an advanced exosuit to control drones, or commanding laser blasters in dynamic, futuristic armor.
On the flip side, we have Zoe Foster, a bubbly fantasy author. Zoe’s all about proving herself to her family, hoping that getting published will finally do the trick. Her imagination runs wild with tales of towns invaded by trolls and forests on the brink of an ice age. Zoe’s gameplay transformations are just as fantastical as her stories: imagine her taking to the skies as a magical shapeshifter, swinging a mythical sword from the back of a dragon, or gliding between floating islands with a mystical kite.
Given their polar-opposite personalities, Mio and Zoe must learn to embrace their differences, uncover hidden depths within themselves, and realize that only by working together can they conquer the challenges that lie within the simulation. This journey underscores the unyielding power of friendship.
During The Game Awards in December, Hazelight Studios’ Josef Fares shared something personal: the names of the characters, Mio and Zoe, hold special significance as they’re named after his daughters.
Now comes the big question for you and your gaming buddy: who will take on the role of Mio, and who will step into Zoe’s shoes?
A staple feature from Hazelight Studios makes its return: The Friend’s Pass. Similar to in A Way Out and It Takes Two, this feature allows a friend to join in your adventure without owning the game, provided they’re playing online. Plus, with crossplay on the cards, playing with friends across various platforms is easier than ever.
Mark your calendars for March 6, 2025—Split Fiction launches exclusively for PlayStation 5. Jump in and see where the journey takes you!
The Friend’s Pass requires installation, a persistent internet connection, and a valid platform account. Note that one player must own the full game for the co-op feature to be accessible to another player.
