Hazelight Studios is back with a bang, introducing us to their latest narrative adventure, Split Fiction. In this game, we meet Mio and Zoe, two creative writers who unexpectedly find themselves trapped inside a virtual world built from their own story ideas. Mio has a flair for sci-fi while Zoe is all about fantasy, creating an intriguing blend that makes Split Fiction a delightful mix of both genres.
It’s not every day you see a game marrying sci-fi and fantasy so seamlessly, and this unique fusion is one of the standout features of Split Fiction. The game keeps players on their toes with new elements and surprises at every turn, making each level an adventure full of fresh mechanics and unexpected challenges. Yet, it’s not alone this year in exploring this territory; Hell is Us, an action-adventure game slated for release soon, promises to be an exciting companion piece for fans of genre-crossing narratives.
Hell is Us and Split Fiction might seem poles apart at first glance. Split Fiction is all about cooperative play, while Hell is Us is a solo journey set in a world simmering with tension and supernatural elements. However, they share a common spirit in their blending of sci-fi with fantasy. Set against a backdrop of civil unrest and featuring mythical creatures, Hell is Us is gearing up to offer a unique post-apocalyptic experience.
Developed by Rogue Factor and published by Nacon, Hell is Us intriguingly uses swords as primary weapons, reminiscent of titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 or Elden Ring. Despite its futuristic setting reminiscent of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order or Death Stranding, the fantasy weaponry provides a fascinating duality. Plus, with its Soulslike gameplay, it promises a thrilling blend of intense melee combat and immersive exploration.
Not stopping at swords, Hell is Us includes a variety of melee weapons like spears and axes, enhancing the combat dynamics further. The combination of sci-fi worlds with fantasy-inspired weaponry could pave the way for a distinct gaming experience, proving that an unusual mixture of elements can yield exciting results.
The ripple effect of Hazelight Studios’ Split Fiction might not have influenced Hell is Us directly, but there’s potential it might inspire other developers to experiment more with such fusions. With Split Fiction enjoying success, and Hell is Us on the horizon, the gaming industry might see a trend of such innovative combinations. Skillfully balancing sci-fi and fantasy opens a wealth of creative possibilities, inviting players to engage with worlds where anything seems possible.
As Hell is Us approaches its September 4, 2025, release, the spotlight will be on how well it competes with the big titles of the year. Its aesthetic allure is evident, but its gameplay will determine its ultimate fate. Though distinct from one another, both Split Fiction and Hell is Us prove that genre-crossing adventures are an exhilarating path in game development, drawing players into worlds where imagination truly knows no bounds.
