Hazelight Studios, the creators of It Takes Two and A Way Out, are back with their latest co-op adventure, Split Fiction, launching on March 6, 2025. At the heart of this sci-fi and fantasy mashup are two unforgettable protagonists: Mio Hudson and Zoe Foster. These two unpublished authors, with their contrasting personalities and creative visions, are thrust into a simulation of their own stories, forcing them to work together to escape. Here’s everything you need to know about Mio and Zoe in Split Fiction before diving into their adventure.
Split Fiction – Mio Hudson: The Sci-Fi Realist
Mio Hudson is a reserved, decisive, and introverted science fiction writer. Raised in the city by her father, Mio has spent years struggling to make ends meet. Unlike many authors, she isn’t driven by fame or recognition—her motivation is purely financial. Her stories are set in neon-lit cyberpunk cities, futuristic weapon plants, and the cold expanse of outer space, reflecting her love for the sci-fi genre.
In the simulation, Mio’s sci-fi expertise comes to life through her abilities. Players can expect to see her transform into a gravity-defying ninja wielding a lethal energy sword, don an advanced exosuit to control drones, or dual-wield laser blasters in futuristic combat armor. Her pragmatic and no-nonsense personality often clashes with Zoe’s optimism, creating a dynamic and compelling partnership.
Split Fiction – Zoe Foster: The Fantasy Dreamer
Zoe Foster is the polar opposite of Mio. Charismatic, empathetic, and extroverted, Zoe is a cheerful countryside girl with a deep need to prove herself to her family. She hopes that securing a publishing deal will solve her problems and validate her passion for fantasy writing. Her stories are filled with tales of troll-infested towns, enchanted forests, and the last dragons on the brink of extinction.
In the game, Zoe’s love for fantasy shines through her abilities. Players can transform her into a magical shapeshifter, flying across the land as a fairy, wielding a mythical sword while riding a dragon, or soaring between floating islands with a magical kite. Her optimistic and imaginative nature often clashes with Mio’s realism, but their differences are what make their partnership so compelling.
Split Fiction: A Story of Friendship and Collaboration
Mio and Zoe’s journey begins when they are lured into the headquarters of Rader Publishing, a shady company promising a lucrative publishing deal. However, things go awry when they are trapped in a simulation that merges their sci-fi and fantasy worlds. To escape, they must navigate through glitches that throw them between their respective stories, uncovering hidden truths about themselves and learning to work together despite their differences.
The game’s narrative emphasizes the power of friendship and collaboration. As Mio and Zoe progress, they must overcome their initial dislike for each other’s genres and personalities, ultimately forming a bond that helps them survive the simulation’s challenges. This theme is further enriched by the fact that the characters are named after Josef Fares’ daughters, adding a personal touch to the story.
Split Fiction Gameplay Dynamics
In Split Fiction, players will alternate between Mio’s sci-fi levels and Zoe’s fantasy levels, each offering unique mechanics and abilities. For example, Mio’s levels might involve futuristic combat and gravity-defying platforming, while Zoe’s levels could feature magical transformations and dragon-riding adventures. The game also introduces Side Stories, optional missions that delve into unfinished ideas from Mio and Zoe’s past, offering even more variety and depth to the gameplay.
The Friend’s Pass and Crossplay
Like Hazelight’s previous games, Split Fiction will feature the Friend’s Pass, allowing one player to invite a friend to play for free. Additionally, the game will support crossplay, making it easier for players on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC to team up and experience the adventure together.
Mio and Zoe are more than just characters—they are the heart of Split Fiction. Their contrasting personalities and creative visions create a rich narrative and gameplay experience that promises to captivate players. Whether you’re drawn to Mio’s sci-fi realism or Zoe’s fantastical optimism, their journey is one you won’t want to miss.