If you’ve dived into a Hazelight Studios creation before, you know the thrill of grappling with characters that are as detailed as they are distinct, each armed with their own stories and motives. These unique personalities make for memorable co-op experiences as their tales unravel.
Get ready, because Hazelight is introducing yet another dynamic duo in their latest game, Split Fiction, set to release on March 6th for the PS5. Meet Mio and Zoe, two aspiring authors with lives spinning in completely different directions. As the story begins, they find themselves ensnared within Rader Publishing’s HQ, seduced by the lure of a publishing contract that turns out to be a trap. Now, they’re stuck in simulations of their own stories, desperately needing an escape. Let’s delve into their character bios, so you can decide who you’ll champion when it’s your turn at the controls.
First up is Mio Hudson, the science fiction savant. Think reserved, decisive, and a realist to the core—a classic introvert. Raised solely by her father in the city, she’s been scraping by, not seeking the limelight. Her motivation? Cold, hard cash. Mio’s sci-fi tales are rich with neon-drenched cyberpunk landscapes, futuristic military facilities, and the eerie quiet of the cosmos.
In the simulations, her passion for the genre is evident. Picture a gravity-defying ninja, a master of the energy sword, or a tech-savvy warrior in an exosuit, commanding drones with finesse. Or maybe envision Mio wielding twin laser blasters, taking on adversaries in her sleek, high-tech armour.
Now, let’s talk about Zoe Foster, the fantasy enthusiast. She’s everything Mio isn’t: charismatic, empathetic, and the eternal optimist—definitely an extrovert. Zoe is the lively girl from the countryside with a point to prove to her family. Her fantasy novels are windows into worlds overrun by trolls, gripped by looming ice ages, or centered around saving the last of the dragons.
Expect to see her transform within the simulation, too. Perhaps as a magical shapeshifter, gliding through skies as a fairy. Or imagine her atop a dragon, wielding a mythical sword as she charges into battle, or maybe flying between fantastical floating islands on a magical kite.
The stark contrast between Mio and Zoe is a central theme. These characters, though so different, need to reconcile their differences, unearth hidden truths, and understand that collaboration and unity are their keys to breaking free from these simulations.
Interestingly, Josef Fares, during the game’s reveal at The Game Awards, shared a personal touch—the characters’ names, Mio and Zoe, bear significance as they are named after his own daughters.
So, here’s the exciting dilemma for you and your gaming buddy: will you embrace Mio’s cool efficiency or Zoe’s vibrant charm in your gameplay?
Speaking of co-op, Hazelight’s promising Friend’s Pass will make its return. Like their previous titles, A Way Out and It Takes Two, this feature allows a player who owns the game to invite a friend to join in, completely gratis! Plus, crossplay is on the horizon, so teaming up will be a breeze, no matter the platform.
Mark your calendars for Split Fiction’s release on March 6, 2025, for the PlayStation 5.
*Note: To use the Friend’s Pass, your friend must install it too, maintain an internet connection, and have the required platform account. One player must own the full game to explore all it offers in co-op mode.
