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 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 on piracy platforms within days of launch. This situation underscores the ongoing tension developers face: balancing player accessibility and performance against the challenge of protecting their work from piracy. Many gamers appreciate the absence of intrusive DRM like 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, engaging story, and stunning visuals. Positive early Steam player feedback confirms this enthusiasm, suggesting a worthy successor to Josef Fares’ previous hit. The game offers a unique cooperative experience blending clever puzzles, emotional storytelling, and dynamic gameplay. Its success with legitimate buyers highlights the potential financial impact piracy can have on sales and developer revenue.

The decision to omit Denuvo protection 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 anti-piracy protection. In Split Fiction’s case, the lack of DRM may have contributed to its rapid compromise, raising questions about whether Electronic Arts underestimated the hackers' capabilities.