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 an easy target for hackers.
This lack of Denuvo significantly weakened the game's security, allowing for rapid unauthorized access and distribution on piracy websites. Within days of launch, pirated copies were widely available, enabling players to experience the game without purchase.
This situation underscores the ongoing tension between protecting game developers' intellectual property and providing players with a smooth, DRM-free experience. Many gamers appreciate the absence of intrusive DRM like Denuvo, yet this leaves games vulnerable to early piracy.
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. Positive early Steam player feedback confirms this enthusiasm, suggesting the game is a worthy successor to Josef Fares’ previous hit.
The game offers a unique cooperative experience, blending clever puzzles, emotional storytelling, and dynamic gameplay. Its popularity among legitimate buyers highlights 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 crucial for 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 groups.
