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 a quick target for hackers.
This lack of Denuvo significantly eased the process for pirates, leading to widespread unauthorized distribution within days of launch. This underscores the ongoing tension developers face between protecting their work and ensuring a smooth player 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 been praised for its innovative co-op mechanics, compelling story, and stunning visuals. Early Steam player feedback mirrors this enthusiasm, suggesting a worthy successor to Josef Fares’ previous hit. The game’s unique cooperative journey blends clever puzzles, emotional storytelling, and dynamic gameplay. Its success with legitimate buyers highlights the potential financial impact of widespread piracy.
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 lack of DRM may have contributed to its rapid compromise, raising questions about Electronic Arts’ assessment of the threat.
