Split Fiction, the highly anticipated cooperative adventure game from the creator of It Takes Two, has 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 an easy target for hackers.
This lack of Denuvo significantly weakened security, allowing rapid unauthorized distribution on piracy sites. Within days, pirated copies circulated online, granting free access to the full game. This situation underscores the ongoing tension developers face: balancing player accessibility and performance against piracy protection. Many gamers appreciate the absence of intrusive DRM like Denuvo, but this leaves games vulnerable to early exploitation.
Developed by the same creative force behind It Takes Two, Split Fiction boasts innovative co-op mechanics, engaging storytelling, and stunning visuals. Positive early Steam player feedback confirms this, suggesting a worthy successor to Josef Fares' previous hit. The game offers a unique cooperative journey blending clever puzzles, heartfelt narratives, and dynamic gameplay. Its success with legitimate buyers highlights the potential financial impact of piracy on sales and developer revenue.
Electronic Arts' decision to omit Denuvo has reignited the DRM debate in gaming. While some argue DRM negatively impacts performance and frustrates legitimate players, others see it as essential anti-piracy protection. Split Fiction's rapid compromise raises questions about whether EA underestimated the speed and capabilities of modern piracy groups.
