If you’ve ever tried your hand at a Hazelight Studios game, you’ve likely discovered how each character and their compelling backstories craft unforgettable moments you and your co-op buddy won’t soon forget. These narratives aren’t just about gameplay; they’re vivid stories that keep you hooked at every turn.
Hazelight Studios rolls out the red carpet for its latest duo in the upcoming release of Split Fiction, hitting PS5 on March 6. This time, step into the shoes of Mio and Zoe, two unpublished authors with personalities as contrasting as their genres. Lured to Rader Publishing Headquarters by the tantalizing promise of a publishing deal, things quickly spiral into chaos, trapping Mio and Zoe in their own imagined worlds. In this blog, we’ll delve into what makes these two tick, helping you decide who to root for when launch day rolls around!
Mio Hudson – the sci-fi maestro of the pair – is your no-nonsense, pragmatic introvert. Living through tight times with her dad in the city, Mio isn’t chasing fame. She’s after financial security and her deep-seated love for sci-fi. Her tales unfold in sprawling cyberpunk cities, hostile weapon factories of the future, and the cold void of space. Inside the simulations, watch her transform, pulling off gravity-defying stunts as a ninja, brandishing an energy sword, or orchestrating drones in a state-of-the-art exosuit.
On the flip side, Zoe Foster lights up the fantasy genre with her boundless charisma and optimism. A spirited girl from the countryside, she’s eager to prove her worth back home. Her heart beats for fantasy, crafting stories of towns teeming with trolls, icy forests, and the crucial task of safeguarding the last dragons. Zoe’s adventures take her to new heights, literally, as she shapeshifts into a fairy, wields a legendary sword atop a dragon, or dances across floating isles with her magical kite.
Despite their differences, Mio and Zoe need to bridge the gap between their worlds. They must unearth their hidden talents and learn the importance of teamwork to escape the labyrinth of their own making. It’s a lesson in friendship that’s deeply woven into the narrative.
During The Game Awards this past December, Josef Fares unveiled that these names aren’t just random picks. In a touching nod, Mio and Zoe are named after his own daughters, adding a personal touch to their tale.
So now comes the big decision for you and your co-op partner: who gets to be Mio and who will take on the role of Zoe?
Hazelight’s much-loved Friend’s Pass makes a comeback, allowing someone who owns the game to invite a friend to join the adventure online for free—an excellent way to ensure you’re never short of partners. Adding even more fun, the game will support crossplay, letting you team up with pals across different platforms effortlessly.
Mark your calendars, because Split Fiction lands on PlayStation 5 come March 6, 2025.
*Just a little heads-up: The Friend’s Pass requires installing it, keeping an active internet connection, and having the right platform account. One player needs the full game to open the doors to this incredible co-op experience.