The Ultimate Split Fiction Guide

Have you ever dreamt of diving into a story, not just reading it, but living it? Imagine teaming up with a friend, each of you wielding unique powers to navigate realms born from the wildest imaginations of two contrasting authors. Welcome to Split Fiction, a co-op adventure where sci-fi clashes with fantasy, and teamwork isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. If you’re ready to unravel the mysteries of Rader Publishing and escape the simulated worlds of Mio and Zoe, you’ve come to the right place. Consider this your all-access pass to mastering every twist, puzzle, and challenge Split Fiction throws your way. We’re here to guide you step-by-step through this incredible journey, ensuring you and your co-op partner emerge as true story-weaving masters with the help of this Split Fiction guide.

Your Split Fiction Guide to Adventure and Co-op Mastery

“Split Fiction” throws you and a friend into a wild co-op adventure as writers Mio (sci-fi) and Zoe (fantasy) stuck inside their own crazy stories. You’ll need to team up, using their cool tech and magic powers, to figure out puzzles, beat challenges across eight different worlds, and escape a shady publisher’s scheme.

1. Getting Started: Gameplay Basics & Tips

Before we jump into the vibrant worlds of Split Fiction, let’s cover the basics. This game, developed by Hazelight Studios, the geniuses behind It Takes Two, is built from the ground up for two players. Yes, you heard right, it’s co-op only! Whether you’re side-by-side on the couch or connecting online, you and a friend will embody Mio and Zoe, two writers unexpectedly trapped in their own literary creations.

• Players control Mio and Zoe, two writers trapped inside a machine that brings their stories to life.

Think of it as an action-adventure puzzle box where communication and coordination are your best tools. You’ll move through objective-based levels, mastering platforming, solving environmental puzzles, and even engaging in combat, all while relying on each other’s unique abilities. One of the coolest features is the Friend’s Pass, which lets your buddy join you for free across platforms – PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC – even if they don’t own the full game. How awesome is that for a game night, especially when using this Split Fiction guide to coordinate?

To really shine in Split Fiction, remember these starter tips:

• Teamwork is Paramount: Seriously, this isn’t a game you can solo. Talk to your partner! Use voice chat or in-game pings.
• Master Your Characters: Zoe, the fantasy writer, brings magic to the table with elemental spells and teleportation. Mio, the sci-fi aficionado, is all about tech, deploying drones, hacking, and wielding laser weapons. Learn what each can do and how their powers synergize.
• Customize Your Style: Dive into the customization options to tweak your gameplay experience to your liking. Find what works best for you and your partner as you venture into the narrative.
• Environment is Your Friend: Don’t just rush through levels. Interact with everything! Climb, use objects, and explore. The environment isn’t just a backdrop; it’s part of the puzzle.

• Designed exclusively for two-player co-op, it’s playable locally or online.

2. Chapter-by-Chapter Walkthrough: Your Story Unfolds

Split Fiction unfolds across eight main chapters, each a unique world born from Mio and Zoe’s imaginations. Let’s take a journey through each chapter by chapter, to ensure you don’t miss a beat.

Appendix: Full Chapter List

1. Intro – Rader Publishing
2. Chapter 1 – Neon Revenge
3. Chapter 2 – Hopes of Spring
4. Chapter 3 – Final Dawn
5. Chapter 4 – Rise of the Dragon Realm
6. Chapter 5 – Isolation
7. Chapter 6 – The Hollow
8. Chapter 7 – Split (Final Chapter)

2.1 Intro: Rader Publishing (20-30 minutes)  

• The narrative explores themes of creativity, identity, and collaboration.

This is where it all begins. You’re introduced to Mio and Zoe at Rader Publishing, testing a simulation device. It’s a quick chapter, designed to get you acquainted with the split co-op mechanics and the story’s setup with the suspicious CEO, J.D. Rader. Don’t worry; as this Split Fiction guide explains, it’s not too intense, just enough to whet your appetite for the adventures to come.

2.2 Chapter 1: Neon Revenge (2+ hours)

• The soundtrack, composed by Gustaf Grefberg and Kristofer Eng, enhances the experience.

Welcome to Mio’s futuristic cityscape! Here, you’ll navigate flying cars, speed through neon-lit streets on a motorcycle, and face off against robotic enemies. This chapter is all about building trust between Mio and Zoe (and you and your co-op partner!). Expect to use both characters’ abilities extensively to escape this high-tech predicament.

Key Objectives: Master movement mechanics, learn basic combat, and solve initial co-op puzzles.

Co-op Strategy: Practice coordinating movements and attacks. Mio can use tech to disable enemies, while Zoe can use magic for crowd control .

Side Stories in Neon Revenge:

• Gameplay combines platforming, puzzle-solving, and combat elements.

1. The Legend of the Sandfish: Right at the mission start, “Play Me Techno.” Dodge the sandfish and escape. (Duration: 10-15 minutes).

• Get ready for hours of fun with your friends in Split Fiction.

2. Farmlife: In “Streets of Neon”, before elevators, check the right side. Become pigs, then sausages. (Duration: 10 minutes) .

• The antagonist, JD Rader, seeks to exploit creative minds for profit.

3. Mountain Hike: In “Big City Life”, at portable toilets, throw Mio onto the balcony. Tricky to find! (Duration: 10-15 minutes) .

2.3 Chapter 2: Hopes of Spring (1 hour 45 minutes)  

• Environments range from dystopian cities to enchanted forests.

Zoe’s fantasy world takes center stage! Transform into fantasy creatures, solve nature-based puzzles, and confront a looming threat in a magical landscape. This chapter emphasizes puzzle-solving and using your transformed abilities creatively, as highlighted in this Split Fiction guide.

Key Objectives: Master transformation mechanics, solve environmental puzzles using magic and fantasy creature forms.

Co-op Strategy: Zoe’s magic can create paths or disable magical barriers, while Mio’s tech can manipulate machinery in unexpected ways, even in a fantasy setting. Experiment!

Side Stories in Hopes of Spring:

• Different side stories in Split Fiction often offer you short but memorable moments.

1. Train Heist: In “Lord Evergreen”, the right path after the wall-running sequence, Side-scrolling action, fight The Conductor (Duration: 10-15 minutes).

• The story critiques the commercialization of creativity.

2. Gameshow: In “Walking Stick of Doom”, left path after the bridge, handle ticking bombs in a gameshow. (Duration: 10-15 minutes) .

• The game emphasizes empathy and understanding between characters.

3. Collapsing Star: In “Halls of Ice”, inside the castle, right path, hide from lethal light waves. (Duration: 10-15 minutes).

2.4 Chapter 3: Final Dawn (2 hours)  

• Split Fiction is full of references to other games.

War is raging! Equip blasters and jetpacks to navigate a facility amidst a massive conflict. Expect intense combat scenarios and aerial maneuvers in this action-packed chapter.

Key Objectives: Master combat with blasters and jetpack flight, navigate war-torn environments, and defeat machine enemies.

Co-op Strategy: One player can provide cover fire while the other maneuvers with the jetpack. Coordinate jetpack boosts to reach higher areas and flank enemies.

Side Stories in Final Dawn:

• Fantasy elements include magic spells and mythical creatures.

1. Kites: In “Toxic Tumblers”, end of cylinder hallway, straight path, Race through the skies with kites. (Duration: 10-15 minutes).

• Cooperative mechanics encourage teamwork and communication

2. Moon Market: In “Test Chamber”, after the crane sequence, left path, Rescue cats in Moon Market, potion puzzles. (Duration: 10-15 minutes).

• The narrative structure allows for multiple interpretations and discussions.

3. Notebook: In “Soaring Desperados”, with the jetpack, the left side of the pipe, rescue a prince in a sketched art level. (Duration: 10-15 minutes).

2.5 Chapter 4: Rise of the Dragon Realm (2 hours 10 minutes)  

• Magical artifacts play a role in puzzle-solving within fantasy segments.

Dragons! You’re entering a dragon-filled realm from Zoe’s imagination. Befriend dragons, learn their abilities, and use fire, acid, and flight to overcome obstacles and enemies. Get ready for some epic dragon-riding action, as this Split Fiction guide prepares you for!

Key Objectives: Master dragon riding and combat, utilize dragon abilities to solve puzzles, and defeat foes.

Co-op Strategy: Coordinate dragon abilities. One dragon can spew acid to clear paths while the other charges through obstacles. Practice aerial combat maneuvers together.

Side Stories in Rise of the Dragon Realm:

• The game’s pacing balances action sequences with reflective moments.

1. Slopes of War: In “Water Temple”, left after golden globes, platform path, Futuristic snowboarding, score attack. (Duration: 10-15 minutes).

• Level design encourages exploration and discovery.

2. Space Escape: In “Craft Temple”, the mission starts, right path after cave exit, Zero gravity, find oxygen tanks. (Duration: 10-15 minutes) .

• The story addresses the pressures and challenges of creative professions.

3. Birthday Cake: In “Treasure Temple”, mission start, left path with pink crystals, Cartoon platforming as teeth, dentist office finale. (Duration: 10-15 minutes) .

2.6 Chapter 5: Isolation (2 hours)

• Sci-fi aspects explore themes of surveillance and autonomy.

Stranded on a prisoner ship in space, you must race against time to escape. Expect tense stealth sections, zero-gravity puzzles, and a confrontation with a threat from Mio’s past.

Key Objectives: Master stealth mechanics, solve zero-gravity puzzles, and survive in a confined, hostile environment.

Co-op Strategy: Coordinate stealth movements and distractions. Mio can use tech to disable security systems, while Zoe can use her suppressed powers to assist with distractions, but not illusions. Utilize zero-gravity to your advantage in puzzles and combat.

2.7 Chapter 6: The Hollow (1 hour 30 minutes)  

• The game’s dialogue is sharp, witty, and character-driven.

Enter Zoe’s spirit-animal-filled world. Here, you’ll encounter mythical creatures and befriend spirit animals to help Zoe confront her lingering traumas. This chapter is more introspective, focusing on emotional resolution and unique creature interactions.

Key Objectives: Befriend spirit animals, solve puzzles based on animal abilities, and navigate a world reflecting Zoe’s inner feelings.

Co-op Strategy: Combine spirit animal abilities to solve puzzles. (Note: Only one spirit animal can be active per player at a time, so players alternate actions between animals to solve puzzles.) One player might use a spirit animal’s power to clear a path, while the other uses a different animal to activate a mechanism.

2.8 Chapter 7: Split (Final Chapter) (40 minutes)

• The protagonists’ growth is mirrored in gameplay progression.

It all comes down to this. Mio and Zoe’s stories collide as you finally confront Rader to escape the simulation. Expect a climactic showdown that tests everything you’ve learned throughout your journey, as this Split Fiction guide has prepared you for.

Key Objectives: Final confrontation with Rader, escape the simulation, and resolve Mio and Zoe’s intertwined stories.

Co-op Strategy: Utilize all combined abilities and teamwork to overcome final challenges. (Note: Both players will be required to use all of the abilities they’ve mastered throughout the game to tackle the final set of puzzles and combat challenges.) Coordinate ultimate attacks and support each other through intense combat and puzzle sequences.

• Hidden collectibles unlock additional backstory and lore.

3. Side Stories: Uncover Hidden Gems

Split Fiction isn’t just about the main story; it’s also sprinkled with 12 captivating side stories across Chapters 2-5. These optional adventures, marked by bubble-like icons, offer unique gameplay twists and deeper dives into Mio and Zoe’s creative minds. Completing all of them not only enriches your experience but also unlocks the “Bookworms” achievement

Side Story Locations at a Glance (Chapters 2-5):

• Chapter 2: Neon Revenge:
  • Legend of the Sandfish
  • Farmlife
  • Mountain Hike
• Chapter 3: Hopes of Spring:
  • Train Heist
  • Gameshow
  • Collapsing Star
• Chapter 4: Final Dawn:
  • Kites
  • Moon Market
  • Notebook
• Chapter 5: Rise of the Dragon Realm:
  • Slopes of War
  • Space Escape
  • Birthday Cake

• Technological upgrades enhance capabilities in sci-fi sections.

Refer back to sections 2.2 – 2.5 of this Split Fiction guide for detailed location hints for each side story within their respective chapters. They are often slightly off the main path, encouraging exploration and rewarding curiosity.

4. Collaboration & Problem Solving: Synergize to Succeed

At its heart, Split Fiction is a celebration of co-op gameplay. Success hinges on your ability to synergize Zoe’s magical prowess with Mio’s tech ingenuity. Here’s how to maximize your teamwork:

• Communicate Constantly: Voice chat or pings are essential for coordinating actions, especially in time-sensitive puzzles or combat scenarios
• Combine Abilities Creatively: Experiment with mixing magic and tech to find solutions. Zoe might create a magical bridge while Mio hacks a terminal to open a gate simultaneously.

• The game’s ending provides a satisfying conclusion to the protagonists’ journey.
• Master Time-Based Puzzles: Many puzzles in Split Fiction require precise timing and synchronization between players. It’s crucial to practice coordinating actions to overcome these challenges.
• Strategic Combat: In battles, coordinate attacks. Zoe’s crowd control magic paired with Mio’s precise tech weapons can be devastating. In boss fights, analyze enemy weaknesses and plan your approach together.
• Don’t Rush Puzzles: Observe your environment carefully before acting. Hidden clues and co-op mechanics are often subtly integrated into the level design
• Consider Character Swapping: If one player struggles with a particular role or ability set in a section, consider swapping characters at the main menu or by switching controllers in couch co-op.

• The cooperative experience strengthens bonds between players.

5. Collectibles, Secrets & Achievements: Become a Completionist

For those who love to explore every nook and cranny, as this Split Fiction guide caters to, the game offers collectibles, secrets, and a satisfying list of achievements/trophies. While collectibles enhance the lore and world, achievements and trophies provide extra challenges and bragging rights.

Notable Achievements/Trophies:

• Bookworms (Gold): Complete all 12 side stories  (Guide in section 3)
• Potion Chef (Silver): Make all potions in Moon Market side story  (See guides online for potion combinations).
• Sisters: A Tale of Two Besties (Silver): Relax on all six benches hidden throughout the game  (Guides available online pinpointing bench locations).
• Cold Potato (Gold): Complete the Gameshow side story without the bomb exploding  (Requires precise timing and multiple attempts).
• (Hidden) Rose’s Best Friend (Bronze): As Zoe, gravity whip Cutie the Elephant in the toy store in Neon Revenge  (A nod to Hazelight’s It Takes Two).
• (Hidden) The Cake is Not a Lie (Bronze): Find the hidden cake in the Run and Gun section of Final Dawn  (Requires skillful portal navigation).

• Fantasy settings are rich with vibrant colors and imaginative designs.

This is just a taste; Split Fiction is packed with quirky and challenging achievements. Explore thoroughly, experiment with abilities, and keep an eye out for secrets to unlock them all!

6. Endgame and Replayability: Beyond the Credits

Once you’ve rolled credits on Split Fiction, the adventure doesn’t necessarily end. While there isn’t extensive post-game content, the game encourages replayability through, as this Split Fiction guide outlines:

• Missed Collectibles and Achievements: Did you miss any side stories or achievements on your first run? Chapter Select allows you to revisit any part of the game to snag those missed treasures.
• Alternate Choices (Limited): While Split Fiction is largely linear, experimenting with different approaches to puzzles or combat might reveal minor variations and hidden details.
• Score Chasing (Side Stories): Some side stories, like “Slopes of War,” are score-based, offering replay value for those aiming for top ranks.
• Friend’s Pass Co-op with New Players: The Friend’s Pass makes it easy to introduce new friends to Split Fiction, offering a fresh co-op experience each time.

• It’s a must-play title for fans of cooperative storytelling adventures.

While not a sprawling open-world experience, Split Fiction rewards completionists and co-op enthusiasts with enough to keep you engaged even after the main story concludes.

Wrapping Up: Your Co-op Adventure Awaits

Split Fiction is more than just a game; it’s a co-op journey that celebrates friendship, creativity, and the power of shared experiences. From the neon-drenched streets of Mio’s sci-fi world to the magical landscapes of Zoe’s fantasy realms, every chapter offers something new and unexpected. By mastering the basics, strategizing with your partner, and exploring every corner of these imaginative worlds, you’ll not only escape the simulation but also forge unforgettable gaming memories. So, grab your friend, dive into Split Fiction, and let the storytelling adventure begin, armed with this Split Fiction guide! Dive in, have fun, and remember, in Split Fiction, you and your partner are writing your own unforgettable story, together!

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FAQs About Split Fiction

1. Can I play Split Fiction solo?

No, Split Fiction is exclusively designed as a two-player co-op experience, either local split-screen or online. Teamwork is the core mechanic of the game.

2. Is there cross-platform play in Split Fiction?

Yes! Split Fiction supports cross-platform play across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC, allowing you to team up with friends regardless of their preferred platform

3. How does the Friend’s Pass work?

The Friend’s Pass allows someone who owns Split Fiction to invite a friend to play the entire game with them for free, even if the friend doesn’t own the game. The friend needs to download the Friend’s Pass version and be invited by the game owner.

4. Are side stories missable in Split Fiction?

No, side stories are not missable. You can access them at any time through the Chapter Select menu. A blue dot indicates a side story in a chapter that has been started but not fully completed.