The eagerly awaited cooperative adventure game, *Split Fiction*, crafted by the visionary behind *It Takes Two*, has unfortunately succumbed to piracy merely days following its launch on March 6, 2025. Available on multiple platforms, including PC via Steam, *Split Fiction* rapidly garnered both acclaim and unwanted attention from hackers.
Despite earning glowing reviews and positive feedback on Steam, *Split Fiction* was quickly compromised due to the absence of strong DRM (Digital Rights Management) measures. Electronic Arts made the notable decision to exclude Denuvo, a commonly used anti-tamper technology, rendering the game more susceptible to unauthorized distribution. This omission facilitated hackers in bypassing the game's security, leading to the proliferation of pirated copies on illicit websites shortly after its release.
This incident underscores the persistent struggle developers face in safeguarding their creations from piracy, all while striving to maintain user-friendly access and optimal performance. While some gamers appreciate the absence of intrusive DRM like Denuvo, it undeniably exposes games to quicker exploitation post-launch.
*Split Fiction*, a brainchild of the creative force behind *It Takes Two*, has been lauded for its groundbreaking cooperative gameplay, compelling narrative, and striking visuals. The enthusiastic response from early players on Steam echoes the critical acclaim, positioning the game as a commendable follow-up to Josef Fares' earlier success.
The game offers a distinctive cooperative experience, weaving together intricate puzzles, emotionally resonant stories, and dynamic gameplay. The positive reception among legitimate purchasers highlights the potential adverse effects of piracy on the game's sales and the developer's earnings.
The choice to bypass Denuvo protection for *Split Fiction* has reignited debates about the necessity of DRM in today's gaming landscape. Critics of DRM argue that it can degrade game performance and alienate legitimate players, yet proponents maintain that it's a crucial defense against piracy.
In the context of *Split Fiction*, the decision not to implement DRM might have hastened its vulnerability to piracy, prompting questions about whether Electronic Arts underestimated the swift actions of hackers.