Split Fiction, the highly anticipated cooperative adventure game from the creator of It Takes Two, has unfortunately been pirated just days after its March 6, 2025 release across multiple platforms, including Steam. Despite critical acclaim and positive 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 lack of Denuvo significantly eased the process for pirates, leading to widespread unauthorized distribution on piracy platforms within days of launch. This situation highlights the ongoing tension developers face: balancing player experience and accessibility against the threat of piracy. Many gamers appreciate the absence of intrusive DRM like Denuvo, but it leaves games vulnerable to early exploitation.
Developed by the same creative force behind It Takes Two, Split Fiction has earned praise for its innovative co-op mechanics, compelling narrative, and stunning visuals. Early Steam player feedback echoes this positive reception, suggesting a worthy successor to Josef Fares’ previous hit. The game offers a unique cooperative experience blending clever puzzles, emotional storytelling, and dynamic gameplay. Its success with legitimate buyers underscores the potential financial impact of piracy on sales and developer revenue.
The decision to omit Denuvo has reignited the debate surrounding DRM in gaming. While some argue that DRM negatively impacts performance and frustrates legitimate players, others see it as essential piracy protection. In Split Fiction’s case, the absence of DRM likely contributed to its rapid compromise, raising questions about whether Electronic Arts underestimated the speed and efficiency of modern piracy groups.
