In 2019, a relatively obscure Estonian game development studio, ZA/UM, made waves on Steam with their debut project: Disco Elysium. This isometric, narrative-driven RPG was crafted to echo the deep, thought-provoking computer RPGs of the past, akin to classics like Planescape: Torment. Rather than focusing on combat, Disco Elysium embraced a dialogue-centric approach. Players take on the role of a hard-drinking, memory-challenged detective who must confront his murky past while unraveling a homicide case in a downtrodden city. Despite its unconventional gameplay and premise, the game became an unexpected hit, earning widespread acclaim from both critics and players, and it bagged several Game of the Year awards.
Initially, Disco Elysium was available solely for Windows PC, but it gradually expanded to other platforms. In 2020, it was released for macOS, and after an enhanced version titled The Final Cut was introduced, it made its way to PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and the since-discontinued Google Stadia by March 2021. The game then became available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch later that year. With these launches, ZA/UM’s acclaimed RPG is now accessible on almost every modern platform—except mobile phones. However, that’s about to change soon.
Earlier this week, ZA/UM unexpectedly announced that Disco Elysium would be coming to Android phones in the summer of 2025. Interestingly, this Android version is not merely a straightforward port; it represents a complete reimagining of the RPG, tailored specifically for mobile devices. The game has been adapted to fit vertically on phone screens, with gameplay shifting from a traditional RPG format to more of a point-and-click adventure style. Additionally, this version will boast 2D artworks and landscapes, creating a unique experience distinct from its predecessors.
This revamped version seems to be designed for easier, shorter gaming sessions, which might appeal to those who can’t dedicate large chunks of time to gaming. It also offers a fresh experience to those familiar with the title who want to enjoy it while on the go. Nevertheless, the release comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding ZA/UM, which may color some players’ perceptions of the new port.
ZA/UM has faced criticism over its alleged mistreatment of employees who were central to creating Disco Elysium. Back in October 2022, a former employee divulged that he, along with a key group of developers, including co-founder Robert Kurvitz, were let go from the company. Kurvitz, who was instrumental as lead designer and writer for the original game, alleged the dismissals occurred because they opposed a potential sale of ZA/UM and the Disco Elysium intellectual property to a holding company linked to ZA/UM CEO Ilmar Kompus. ZA/UM countered these claims, stating that Kurvitz and others fostered a toxic work environment.
The tensions between ZA/UM and Kurvitz remain unresolved, leaving many onlookers unsure whose side of the story holds more truth. Despite the unresolved issues, several former employees have moved on, starting new ventures of their own. With many original team members no longer with the studio, fans are hesitant to back the new Android port, reluctant to support the company’s current leadership. The excitement surrounding this unique mobile release is undeniably overshadowed by the backdrop of ongoing internal drama.
