(Image credit: EA)
Split Fiction, the newest release from the same creators of the game of the year-winning It Takes Two, has captivated audiences with an elusive secret challenge. Despite being less than two weeks old, two skilled players have already managed to conquer this hidden level. In return, Josef Fares, the co-founder of Hazelight and the director, extended an extraordinary invitation for them to visit the studio in Sweden for an exclusive preview of his upcoming project.
This mysterious level, aptly named Laser Hell, is a testament to the enduring allure of hidden features within video games. It’s thrilling how these surprises continue to engage and delight players.
Navigating to this secret locale requires inputting a binary sequence in an elevator. Curiously, one YouTuber, who has tackled the challenge, claims the sequence is nowhere to be found in the game’s code, leaving us all pondering how the original duo stumbled upon it.
First defeated by the talented Chinese speedrunners, E1uM4y and Sharkov, the challenge demanded they complete an intricate platforming sequence, dodging rapid lasers and navigating perilous falls. As someone currently playing It Takes Two with my partner, I can’t help but marvel at their prowess. Witness the spectacle for yourself in this YouTube video showcasing another pair’s victory—it’s truly astounding!
Upon conquering the level, participants are greeted with a heartfelt video from Fares himself, who exclaims: “Wow, amazing! There are barely people on our team that can make it. It took us a lot of time to finish it. And I’m telling you that this is a crazy, crazy achievement that you have done.”
He humorously addresses onlookers like myself, adding: “And I’m not talking to you guys who are looking at this on YouTube. If you see this on YouTube, you should go to the game. It’s a really hard challenge. But for those of you who are actually in the game seeing this video, I am super amazed.”
The crowning prize, a sneak peek of Hazelight’s next game, awaits E1uM4y and Sharkov. Fares elaborates: “I’m going to say one thing, if you see me in real life, somewhere, and you can prove to me that you actually did this challenge, I can promise you, the first one to do that, I’m going to fly you to Sweden and show you footage of our next game.”
True to his word, Fares announced in a tweet: “Congrats to ‘sharkOvO’ and ‘E1uM4y’ for finishing the secret challenge ‘Laser Hell’ in Split Fiction. Very impressive! I will keep my promise and invite you both to Sweden for an early look of our next game. We’ll be in touch!”
Though envy tinges my amazement, it’s heartwarming to see such enthusiasts rewarded exquisitely. While here, perhaps explore our curated list of the best co-op games available now.