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 absence of Denuvo significantly simplified 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 experience (often negatively impacted by intrusive DRM) with the need to protect their intellectual property and revenue streams. Many gamers appreciate the absence of DRM like Denuvo, yet this leaves games vulnerable to early piracy.

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 offers a unique cooperative experience blending clever puzzles, emotional storytelling, and dynamic gameplay. Its success with legitimate buyers highlights the potential financial impact of piracy on sales and developer revenue.

The decision to omit Denuvo in Split Fiction has reignited the debate surrounding DRM in gaming. While some argue that DRM negatively impacts performance and frustrates legitimate players, others see it as a necessary anti-piracy measure. In Split Fiction's case, the lack of DRM may have contributed to its rapid compromise, prompting questions about whether Electronic Arts underestimated the speed and efficiency of modern piracy techniques.