Disco Elysium burst onto the scene in 2019, revolutionizing RPG storytelling and setting a new standard for player immersion. However, the success was short-lived as the original creators faced turmoil, with lead writer and designer Robert Kurvitz being ousted and others laid off. With the cancellation of a direct sequel and other projects, the legacy of Disco Elysium seemed to be in jeopardy.
In response to the chaos, three new studios emerged, each consisting of former ZA/UM and Disco Elysium developers, working on RPGs that bear resemblance to spiritual successors. Longdue, led by Grant Roberts, promises a unique “psychogeographic RPG” experience that allows players’ choices to shape the game world. Dark Math Games is developing an intriguing “true detective RPG” titled XXX Nightshift, with key members from the original team on board. Summer Eternal, spearheaded by original writers Argo Tuulik and Olga Moskvina, aims to reclaim the artistic vision of Disco Elysium through a worker-owned co-op model.
These new studios are driven by a desire to recapture the groundbreaking essence of Disco Elysium while fostering a healthier creative environment. Dora Klindžić, a writer who witnessed the tumultuous events at ZA/UM, emphasized the need for a more collaborative and respectful work culture, free from corporate greed and power struggles. Summer Eternal, in particular, aims to re-engage with artists and designers who contributed to Disco Elysium, reflecting a commitment to inclusive and ethical game development practices.
As these rival teams embark on their respective projects, the future of the RPG genre remains uncertain. While it may take years to see the final products, the passion and dedication of these developers suggest a promising resurgence in innovative storytelling and world-building. Despite the challenges faced by the original creators, there is hope that the spirit of Disco Elysium will endure in future projects, inspiring a new generation of game developers to prioritize creativity and collaboration above all else.
