The eagerly awaited cooperative adventure game, *Split Fiction*, from the mastermind behind *It Takes Two*, has unfortunately succumbed to piracy mere days following its launch on March 6, 2025. Available across multiple platforms, including PC via Steam, the game quickly garnered both praise and the attention of hackers.

Despite earning critical acclaim and glowing initial reviews on Steam, *Split Fiction* was rapidly cracked by tech-savvy individuals, largely due to the absence of robust DRM (Digital Rights Management) protection. Notably, Electronic Arts decided against implementing Denuvo, a popular anti-tamper technology, which left the game more susceptible to unauthorized access.

The lack of Denuvo protection significantly eased the process for hackers to circumvent security measures and share the game on piracy platforms. Within days of its release, unauthorized copies of *Split Fiction* were circulating online, enabling users to experience the full game without making a purchase.

This incident underscores the persistent challenges game developers face in safeguarding their creations against piracy while also considering player accessibility and performance. While many gamers appreciate the absence of intrusive DRM systems like Denuvo, it also heightens the risk of exploitation soon after a game's launch.

Crafted by the innovative mind behind *It Takes Two*, *Split Fiction* has been lauded for its groundbreaking co-op mechanics, captivating storytelling, and vivid visuals. Early player feedback on Steam echoes this praise, with many hailing the game as a commendable follow-up to Josef Fares' previous work.

The game invites players into a distinctive cooperative journey, weaving together clever puzzles, emotionally resonant narrative moments, and dynamic gameplay. Its success with legitimate buyers highlights the potential impact of piracy on sales and the developer's revenue.

The choice to bypass Denuvo protection in *Split Fiction* has reignited debates about the role of DRM in contemporary gaming. While some argue that DRM can adversely affect game performance and irritate legitimate players, others maintain that it is essential in deterring piracy.

In *Split Fiction*'s case, the absence of DRM might have facilitated its swift compromise, prompting questions about whether Electronic Arts underestimated the speed and determination of hackers.