
Split Fiction, the highly anticipated cooperative adventure game from the creator of It Takes Two, has unfortunately fallen prey to piracy just days after its March 6, 2025 release across multiple platforms, including Steam. Despite earning critical acclaim and positive early Steam reviews, the game's lack of robust DRM, specifically the absence of Denuvo anti-tamper technology, made it a quick target for hackers.
This vulnerability allowed unauthorized access and distribution on piracy platforms within days of launch. The ease with which Split Fiction was cracked highlights the ongoing struggle developers face in balancing game protection with player experience and performance. Many gamers appreciate the absence of intrusive DRM like Denuvo, yet this leaves games susceptible to early exploitation.
Developed by the same creative force behind It Takes Two, Split Fiction has been lauded for its innovative co-op mechanics, compelling narrative, and stunning visuals. Positive early player feedback on Steam reinforces this, suggesting a worthy successor to Josef Fares' previous hit. The game offers a unique cooperative journey blending clever puzzles, emotional storytelling, and dynamic gameplay. Its success among paying customers underscores the potential financial impact of piracy on sales and developer revenue.
Electronic Arts' decision to omit Denuvo has reignited the debate surrounding DRM in gaming. While some argue DRM negatively impacts performance and frustrates legitimate players, others see it as crucial piracy prevention. In Split Fiction's case, the lack of DRM may have contributed to its swift compromise, raising questions about whether Electronic Arts underestimated the speed and efficiency of modern piracy techniques.