Recent layoffs at ZA/UM, the studio behind the acclaimed RPG Disco Elysium, have led to the cancellation of a planned expansion for the game. Reports initially surfaced from GLHF claiming that around 24 employees, approximately a quarter of the studio's workforce, had been dismissed. It was also revealed that a standalone expansion, known by its codename X7, which needed one to two more years of development, has been scrapped. This follows previous cancellations of a Disco Elysium sequel and a new science fiction game by the same studio. ZA/UM has confirmed the downsizing, explaining that team adjustments are common depending on the studio's current projects.
Disco Elysium, released in 2019, is a critically lauded game praised for its character freedom and sophisticated writing. The recent layoffs continue a broader trend in the gaming industry, which has seen numerous companies, including giants like Microsoft, Unity, Twitch, Riot Games, and others, reduce their workforce in both 2023 and 2024.
Why was the Disco Elysium expansion canceled?The cancellation of the Disco Elysium expansion, codenamed X7, was a result of the layoffs at ZA/UM studio due to the reevaluation of ongoing projects and the company's changing needs.
Disco Elysium is an award-winning role-playing game developed by ZA/UM. It debuted to critical acclaim for its deep narrative, open-ended character development, and unique gameplay mechanics. Set in a beautifully crafted world with a profound political narrative, the game has been celebrated for its innovative approach to the RPG genre, featuring a focus on dialogue and choices rather than combat.
Samira Khan
Samira Khan is a narrative enthusiast with a keen eye for storytelling in games. Her literary approach to game criticism examines themes, character development, and plot structure, earning her a following among gamers who appreciate the art of narrating.
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Comments
It's a shame to hear about the cancellation of the Disco Elysium expansion due to the recent layoffs at ZAUM. Hopefully, the team can find their footing and continue creating unique and engaging experiences in the future.
It's always disappointing to see a game's expansion canceled, especially one as acclaimed as Disco Elysium. Layoffs in the gaming industry are unfortunately not uncommon, but it's a shame to see a project affected in this way. Here's hoping for the best for the talented team at ZAUM.
It's disappointing to hear about the cancellation of the Disco Elysium expansion, especially considering the game's unique and captivating storytelling. Hopefully, the talented developers affected by the layoffs find new opportunities to continue creating impactful gaming experiences.