Split Fiction Cracked and Leaked Online Shortly After Release

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 a quick target for hackers.

This lack of Denuvo significantly eased the process for pirates, leading to widespread distribution of unauthorized copies on piracy platforms within days of launch. This situation underscores the ongoing tension developers face: balancing player experience (often negatively impacted by intrusive DRM) with the need to protect their work from piracy. Many gamers appreciate the absence of Denuvo, yet this leaves games vulnerable to early exploitation.

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 a worthy successor to Josef Fares' previous hit. The game's unique cooperative journey blends clever puzzles, emotional storytelling, and dynamic gameplay. Its success among paying customers highlights the potential financial impact of piracy on developers.

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 for piracy prevention. In Split Fiction's case, the lack of DRM likely contributed to its rapid compromise, raising questions about Electronic Arts' assessment of the speed and capabilities of modern piracy groups.