Josef Fares' Split Fiction, the latest cooperative adventure from the creator of It Takes Two, has sparked debate. The game features two female protagonists, a narrative choice praised by some and criticized by others who accuse it of pushing a "feminist agenda."
This criticism prompted a characteristically blunt and humorous response from Fares himself. He pointed out the varied gender pairings in his previous games (Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons, A Way Out, and It Takes Two), highlighting that his focus is on creating compelling characters, regardless of gender. He stated, "Let me tell you something: in Brother, there were two guys, in A Way Out—two guys, in It Takes Two—one man, one woman, and now two women, and suddenly ‘everyone’s upset.’ […] I don’t care what you’ve got between your legs—good characters are what matter."
This response emphasizes Fares' dedication to strong storytelling over adhering to specific ideological viewpoints. The core of Split Fiction centers on the deeply personal journey of its two female leads, a narrative praised by many for its innovation and emotional depth.
However, some critics argue the choice of protagonists is unnecessary or politically motivated. This backlash underscores ongoing discussions about representation in media. While some see the inclusion of two women as progress towards more inclusive storytelling, others view it as a source of broader cultural conflict.
Split Fiction, by its very nature, challenges conventions and presents fresh perspectives. Despite the controversy, the largely positive reception from players and critics suggests its narrative resonates with a broad audience.
