The development of Split Fiction involves significant effort, with frequent introductions of new mechanics that sometimes replace older ones. The goal is to avoid leaving any new idea feeling underdeveloped.
Innovative Features and Development Challenges
One notable feature is the dragon riding segment, which reportedly took around eight months to design. The initial team members questioned the time investment, given the short duration players would engage with that segment.
In video game design, there’s a common notion that expensive creations should be reused to justify their cost. However, this perspective can diminish the impact of unique experiences. Drawing a parallel to films, memorable scenes aren’t reused simply because they were costly; their uniqueness contributes to their specialness. This philosophy is central to the approach taken in Split Fiction.
Optional Content and Gameplay Structure
The game embraces this philosophy by offering extensive optional content. While previous titles like It Takes Two included mini-games, Split Fiction expands this concept significantly. Players can explore vast, distinct worlds, complete with new mechanics and challenges, creating a unique gameplay experience akin to an entirely different game within the main narrative.