Hazelight Studios is on the brink of unveiling their highly anticipated co-op game, "Split Fiction," but fans of subscription services like Xbox Game Pass and EA Play may find themselves waiting a little longer for the game’s inclusion. Slated for release in 2025, "Split Fiction" promises to deliver a visually stunning experience, running at 60FPS on consoles, according to Josef Fares, the founder of Hazelight Studios. Despite the buzz surrounding the game, players should note that it will not be available on Xbox Game Pass or EA Play at launch.
The announcement trailer for "Split Fiction" premiered during The Game Awards 2024, capturing the attention of gamers worldwide. However, those hoping for immediate access through subscription services noticed the trailer omitted any mention of availability on Xbox Game Pass at launch. Additionally, the Xbox Store page for "Split Fiction" confirms that it will not be part of the Game Pass lineup initially.
The decision aligns with EA's existing policy of not providing day-one access to new titles for free via its subscription service. This strategy was also evident with Hazelight Studios’ previous success, "It Takes Two," which launched in 2021. Although "It Takes Two" eventually made its way to Xbox Game Pass months after its initial release, fans are left wondering if "Split Fiction" will follow a similar path.
Josef Fares, renowned for his innovative approach to gaming, leads Hazelight Studios. His previous project, "It Takes Two," was lauded for its engaging co-op gameplay and creative storytelling. With "Split Fiction," Fares and his team aim to build upon this success by crafting another compelling narrative-driven experience designed to captivate players.
The excitement for "Split Fiction" is palpable, as it is currently one of the most hyped games of 2025. The game's promise of high-performance graphics and seamless multiplayer interaction has set expectations high among the gaming community. The 60FPS performance on consoles is an aspect that Josef Fares proudly highlighted, indicating Hazelight's commitment to delivering a top-tier gaming experience.
"Split Fiction" will be running at 60FPS on consoles. – Josef Fares
While the absence of "Split Fiction" from Xbox Game Pass and EA Play at launch may disappoint some players, the decision reflects a growing trend among developers and publishers to maximize initial sales before opening up to subscription services. This approach ensures that dedicated fans who purchase the game outright can enjoy it from day one, while potential future inclusion in subscription libraries keeps the title accessible to a broader audience over time.
