Hazelight has built its name on co-op — and Split Fiction is the studio at full power. You and a partner play Mio and Zoe, two writers trapped inside their own stories: hers a neon sci-fi world of hoverbikes and mechs, his a fantasy realm of dragons and magic. The game tears down the wall between the two constantly, and the split-screen inventiveness never lets up.
What makes it special is generosity. Every half hour there’s a new mechanic, a new vehicle, a new rule of physics — used brilliantly, then retired before it wears thin. Side stories hide some of the best set pieces we’ve played in years.
For South African squads, the Friend’s Pass is the killer feature: one copy, two players, online or couch. Grab a partner who talks too much and lose a weekend.
Verdict: 9.3/10. The best co-op game ever made — and the easiest recommendation of the year.
Reviewed on PS5. Also on PC and Xbox Series X|S.