Intro: Hazelight’s Newest Co-Op Adventure
Hazelight Studios — yeah, the folks who gave us It Takes Two and A Way Out — are back with another wild ride called Split Fiction. This time, you’re stepping into the shoes of two writers, Mio and Zoe, who get stuck inside a simulation where sci-fi meets fantasy in the weirdest, coolest ways.
Now, let’s cut to the chase because I know what you’re wondering: can you play Split Fiction solo?
The quick answer: Nope. Not happening. Split Fiction is built from the ground up as a co-op game. No solo mode, no AI buddy, no sneaky one-player workaround. It’s just not designed for lone wolves.
But before you rage-quit this article — don’t panic. Hazelight has made it super easy to find someone to team up with, even if you don’t have a co-op partner lined up. Stick with me and I’ll show you exactly how you can still dive into this awesome adventure.
The Core Answer: Yep, It’s Co-Op Only
Why You Can’t Play Alone
Here’s the deal: Split Fiction isn’t just another co-op game — it’s co-op only. Hazelight went all in on the teamwork vibe.
- The puzzles, fights, and crazy stunts all need real-time coordination. No AI could fake it, and you can’t juggle two characters without losing your sanity.
- No single-player mode, no bots. Hazelight didn’t even bother pretending.
- Technically you could try playing with two controllers, but let’s be real — it’s basically like trying to pat your head and rub your stomach while riding a unicycle.
In short: this game was born to be played with someone else.
Josef Fares’ Big Vision
If you’ve ever watched an interview with Hazelight’s director, Josef Fares, you know this guy doesn’t hold back. He’s on a mission to prove that co-op games are the future, and honestly, he’s not wrong.
He even said Hazelight is “the best in the world at making co-op games” — bold, but after A Way Out and It Takes Two, it’s hard to argue. Split Fiction is just the next step in his obsession with building experiences you can’t play solo.
So whether you’re Googling “can you play Split Fiction solo Xbox” or “can you play Split Fiction solo PS5,” the answer’s the same: nope. And that’s exactly the point.
Don’t Have a Partner? Here’s How to Play Anyway
No friend on standby? No problem. Hazelight’s got your back. Here are the three best ways to get started:
1. Friend’s Pass = Your Best Friend
This feature is genius:
- Only one of you needs to buy the game.
- The other can play the entire thing for free.
- Yep, no catch. Free.
So if your buddy’s broke, skeptical, or just “not sure,” send them that invite. It’s the easiest way to get someone on board.
2. Hop Into Hazelight’s Discord
The official Hazelight Discord is buzzing with players looking for partners.
- There’s literally a channel called #sf-looking-for-player.
- Post a message, and chances are you’ll get a reply in minutes.
- Tons of fans from earlier Hazelight games are already hanging out there.
Basically, if you want a co-op buddy, this is the fastest way to find one.
3. Crossplay Saves the Day
Doesn’t matter if you’re on PS5, Xbox, or PC — Split Fiction supports full crossplay. That means no excuses. Got a friend on another platform? You can still team up and dive in.
What About Matchmaking or “Fake Solo” Hacks?
No Random Matchmaking
Some of you might be thinking, “Cool, I’ll just team up with a random player.” Nope. Hazelight deliberately skipped matchmaking. Their vision is that Split Fiction should be shared with someone you actually want to play with — a friend, sibling, partner, or maybe that cool stranger you just met on Discord.
Two Controllers = Two Headaches
Yes, technically, you can try to play both characters at once. One hand on the keyboard, the other on a controller. Sounds fun until you realize the game demands lightning-fast teamwork. Split Fiction’s pacing makes this hack way harder than in previous games.
In short: unless you’ve got the reflexes of a god, don’t bother.
Will They Ever Add a Solo Mode?
The honest answer: probably never.
- Hazelight has flat-out said there are no plans for solo play or an AI companion.
- Josef Fares is way too committed to the co-op philosophy to backtrack now.
- With Friend’s Pass and crossplay, they’ve already given you every possible way to play without owning two copies.
So if you’re waiting for a single-player update… don’t hold your breath.
Why Split Fiction Is Still Worth It
Alright, so you can’t play solo. But trust me, Split Fiction is 100% worth finding a partner for. Here’s why:
- Fresh Mechanics Every Half Hour: You’re constantly getting new tools and puzzles. No chance of boredom.
- Two Worlds, Two Perspectives: One sci-fi, one fantasy, blended together in an epic story.
- Mini-Games Galore: From water skiing behind a train to a hand-drawn world, the variety’s insane.
- Critical Smash Hit: By 2025, it sold over 4 million copies and critics loved it.
- Movie in the Works: Amazon MGM is already working on a film adaptation. That’s how big this game is.
It’s more than just a co-op game. It’s an experience.
Wrap-Up: Time to Find Your Player Two
So, can you play Split Fiction solo? Nope. And honestly — why would you want to? The game’s magic is in the teamwork, the laughs, and those “holy crap, we actually did it!” moments.
Luckily, Hazelight makes it easy:
- Use Friend’s Pass so your buddy can play for free.
- Jump into the official Discord and find a co-op partner in minutes.
- Take advantage of crossplay so platforms don’t matter.
So grab a friend, fire it up, and get ready. Because in Split Fiction, it takes two brains, two controllers, and twice the fun.
