The highly anticipated cooperative adventure game, Split Fiction, crafted by the visionary behind It Takes Two, has unfortunately become a target of piracy shortly after its launch on March 6, 2025. Available across multiple platforms, including PC via Steam, the game garnered widespread attention and critical acclaim almost instantly. However, its release was marred by unauthorized distribution due to the absence of robust DRM (Digital Rights Management) protection. Notably, Electronic Arts chose not to implement Denuvo, a widely used anti-tamper technology, which left Split Fiction vulnerable to exploitation by tech-savvy hackers.

The decision to forego Denuvo made it considerably easier for pirates to crack the game. Within days of its release, unauthorized copies of Split Fiction were circulating on piracy platforms, allowing users to experience the game without purchasing it. This incident underscores the persistent challenges developers face in safeguarding their creations while ensuring a smooth experience for legitimate players.

Despite the piracy issue, Split Fiction has been celebrated for its innovative co-op mechanics, compelling narrative, and stunning visuals. Early reviews on Steam have been overwhelmingly positive, with many players praising the game as a worthy successor to Josef Fares' previous works. The game invites players to embark on a unique cooperative journey, featuring clever puzzles, emotionally engaging stories, and dynamic gameplay elements. Its success among paying customers highlights the significant impact that piracy can have on sales and developer revenue.

The absence of Denuvo in Split Fiction has reignited debates about the role of DRM in modern gaming. While some gamers appreciate the lack of intrusive DRM systems, believing it enhances performance and user experience, others argue that such measures are essential to deter piracy. In the case of Split Fiction, the decision not to use Denuvo may have contributed to its swift compromise, prompting questions about whether Electronic Arts underestimated the speed and sophistication of today's hackers.