Josef Fares, the visionary behind Hazelight Studios and the mastermind of the cooperative adventure Split Fiction, recently took the opportunity to connect with fans and address some of the swirling criticisms and misconceptions about his work. A fan had accused him of proclaiming the end of single-player games, a claim Fares swiftly debunked. He reminded fans that one of Hazelight's most acclaimed titles, Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons (2013), was indeed a single-player game, showcasing the studio's versatility.
Image: comicbook.com
Fares elaborated on Hazelight's creative direction, noting that while the studio is renowned for its cooperative focus, exploring a single-player game similar to their past works is certainly within the realm of possibility. "We’re not excluding it," he affirmed, emphasizing the studio's willingness to venture into various gameplay formats in the future.
Moreover, Fares addressed the controversy surrounding the choice of two female protagonists in Split Fiction. Some fans questioned whether this decision was a nod to feminism or indicative of a broader agenda. In response, Fares highlighted the diversity in Hazelight's previous games, which included two brothers in Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons, two men in A Way Out, and a male-female duo in It Takes Two. Despite these varied pairings, the selection of two women as leads in Split Fiction drew significant attention and debate.
Fares made it clear that the characters in Split Fiction were inspired by his own daughters, underscoring his focus on crafting compelling narratives and well-developed characters over mere physical attributes. "I don’t care what’s between someone’s legs—it’s about crafting great characters," he stated firmly.
Split Fiction, released today on March 6th, has garnered widespread critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay and diverse scenarios. Prior to its launch, system requirements were made available, ensuring that players are well-prepared to immerse themselves in Hazelight's latest offering.