The much-anticipated cooperative adventure game, Split Fiction, from the creator of It Takes Two, has unfortunately fallen prey to piracy just days following its official release. Launched on March 6, 2025, across various platforms, including PC via Steam, the game quickly garnered both acclaim and the attention of hackers.
Despite earning critical praise and positive early reviews on Steam, Split Fiction was rapidly cracked by tech-savvy individuals due to the absence of robust DRM (Digital Rights Management) protection. Electronic Arts decided against using Denuvo, a commonly employed anti-tamper technology, which left the game more susceptible to unauthorized access.
The lack of Denuvo protection significantly facilitated hackers' ability to circumvent security measures and distribute the game on piracy platforms. Within days of its release, unauthorized copies of Split Fiction were circulating online, allowing users to experience the game without purchasing it.
This situation underscores the persistent challenges developers face in safeguarding their games from piracy while striving to maintain player accessibility and performance. While many gamers view the absence of intrusive DRM systems like Denuvo as a positive step, it also exposes titles to exploitation shortly after their launch.
Developed by the innovative mind behind It Takes Two, Split Fiction has been lauded by critics for its groundbreaking co-op mechanics, compelling storytelling, and vivid visuals. Early player feedback on Steam echoes this enthusiasm, with many considering the game a worthy successor to Josef Fares’ previous work.
The game offers players a unique cooperative journey, integrating clever puzzles, touching narrative moments, and dynamic gameplay. Its success among legitimate buyers highlights the potential impact of piracy on sales and the developer's revenue.
The choice to exclude Denuvo protection from Split Fiction has reignited debates about the role of DRM in modern gaming. While some argue that DRM can adversely affect game performance and frustrate legitimate players, others contend it is a vital deterrent against piracy.
In the case of Split Fiction, the absence of DRM may have facilitated its quick compromise, prompting questions about whether Electronic Arts underestimated the speed and efficacy of hackers.
