Disco Elysium Studio ZA/UM Teases New Espionage Game

Project [C4], a spy and espionage-themed game, was revealed by ZA/UM, the studio behind Disco Elysium.

In a teaser trailer and accompanying talks with IGN, ZA/UM outlined some of the key concepts of Project [C4]. The game’s plot is set in a backdrop of complex geopolitical conflicts and will explore themes of betrayal, allegiance, and the high-stakes world of espionage.

Drawing heavy inspiration from John le Carré’s Smiley vs. Karla trilogy, particularly Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, The Honourable Schoolboy, and Smiley’s People, the game promises a cerebral take on spycraft. Unlike the glitzy, action-packed spy stories seen in 007 James Bond films, Project [C4] will focus on the mental toll of espionage, blending elements of psychedelic sci-fi in the vein of Usula LeGuin and Philip K. Dick.

One of the promised features is the return of ZA/UM’s “fail-forward” philosophy from Disco Elysium. In Project [C4], failure will not reset the game, but instead, it will propel the narrative forward, forcing players to live with the consequences of their decisions. Just like in Disco Elysium, success will depend on a mix of tactical thinking and dice rolls.

It is worth noting that several key team members from Disco Elysium’s team have departed from ZA/UM, and the studio has been involved in a series of reports about internal conflict and allegations of financial misconduct.

Since its release in October 2019, ZA/UM‘s Disco Elysium has generated €13.1 million in revenue, resulting in a profit of €6.7 million during its first six months. As of April 2024, estimates suggest that “Disco Elysium” has sold approximately 5 to 6 million copies, with total gross revenue exceeding $200 million. On top of that, the game was nominated for four awards at The Game Awards 2019 and won all of them, the most at the event. In total, Disco Elysium won 12 industry awards in different categories.