(Image credit: EA)
Split Fiction, the newest release from the studio famous for the game of the year-winning It Takes Two, has taken the gaming world by storm. In less than two weeks, a duo of players has mastered a secret challenge level that even some of the developers struggle to complete. The renowned Hazelight co-founder and game director, Josef Fares, has extended an incredible reward: a trip to the studio in Sweden to get an exclusive first look at his next project.
This daunting level is aptly named Laser Hell, and once you experience it, the moniker makes perfect sense. Hidden treasures like this remind us of the pure joy they can bring once unveiled. Accessing the mysterious room requires entering a binary sequence in an elevator, which one accomplished YouTuber claims isn’t even visible in the game’s code, leaving everyone wondering how the original team discovered it.
First conquered by the skilled Chinese speedrunners E1uM4y and Sharkov, they navigated a meticulous platforming trial brimming with swift lasers and perilous drops. As someone currently enjoying It Takes Two with my partner in anticipation of Split Fiction, I can’t fathom reaching their level of expertise. Witnessing another duo crack the challenge on YouTube is undeniably exhilarating.
Upon conquering this formidable task, the pair is treated to an in-game video where Fares congratulates them sincerely. He enthusiastically remarks, “Wow, amazing! There are barely any teammates who can accomplish this. It was a time-intensive task for us. I must say, this is a phenomenal, unprecedented feat you have achieved.” He humorously pokes fun at individuals like myself, who watch the triumph unfold online: “To those watching on YouTube, dive into the game. It’s incredibly tough. Kudos to those viewing this video in-game, I’m absolutely amazed.”
But the ultimate reward? E1uM4y and Sharkov will experience Hazelight’s next game all thanks to their skill. “Here’s the deal,” Fares continues, “Prove to me in person that you’ve completed this challenge, and I promise the first to do so will be flown to Sweden for a preview of our upcoming game.” Fares delivered on this vow, tweeting, “Congrats to ‘sharkOvO’ and ‘E1uM4y’ for mastering the secret challenge ‘Laser Hell’ in Split Fiction. Astonishing! Your promised trip to Sweden for an early glimpse of our forthcoming game awaits. More details soon!”
My envy is undeniable, but the satisfaction comes from knowing such dedicated fans receive this caliber of reward. For more adventures, dive into our curated list of stellar co-op games worth your time!