In 2019, an up-and-coming Estonian game studio named ZA/UM launched its very first project on Steam: Disco Elysium, an isometric, narrative-driven RPG. This game was envisioned as a spiritual successor to classic computer RPGs like Planescape: Torment, focusing heavily on dialogue with almost no combat. It followed the chaotic journey of an alcoholic, amnesiac detective as he grappled with his past while solving a murder in a poverty-stricken city. Despite its unconventional gameplay and concept, Disco Elysium became an unexpected hit. Both critics and gamers showered it with praise, and it bagged multiple Game of the Year accolades.
Initially, Disco Elysium was exclusive to Windows PC, but it gradually made its way to other platforms. In 2020, it came to macOS, and following the enhanced re-release titled The Final Cut, it debuted on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and the discontinued Google Stadia in March 2021. Later that same year, it landed on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch. With these expansions, ZA/UM’s breakout RPG became available on nearly every modern platform—except mobile phones. But that’s about to change.
Just last week, ZA/UM surprised everyone by announcing that Disco Elysium will be available on Android phones in the summer of 2025. Unlike typical ports, this one is set to be a complete reimagining of the RPG. It’s restructured to fit a vertical phone screen and primarily plays from a first-person perspective. Instead of 3D settings, this version employs 2D art and backgrounds, making it feel more like a point-and-click adventure than a traditional RPG.
This new iteration promises to be more accessible in short sessions, perfect for those who can’t spend hours on a console or PC. With its fresh approach, it offers a unique experience, ideal for both new players and those wanting to revisit Disco Elysium on the go. However, the mobile version arrives amid lingering controversy surrounding ZA/UM, leading to mixed feelings among fans.
ZA/UM has faced criticism over its alleged mistreatment of employees, who were key in developing Disco Elysium. In October 2022, a former staff member disclosed that he and several colleagues, including co-founder Robert Kurvitz, departed the studio involuntarily a year earlier. Kurvitz, who was pivotal as the lead designer and writer for the game, claimed their exit stemmed from opposing the sale of both ZA/UM and the Disco Elysium IP to a holding firm under CEO Ilmar Kompus. In contrast, ZA/UM representatives accused Kurvitz and others of contributing to a toxic work environment, which led to their dismissals.
The ongoing dispute between ZA/UM and Kurvitz remains unresolved, leaving the true details obscure. Many former team members have moved on to form new ventures, and since the original creators of Disco Elysium no longer work at ZA/UM, a number of fans hesitate to support the upcoming Android port, unwilling to see current leadership benefit from others’ achievements. This drama has somewhat overshadowed what could have been an exciting new chapter for Disco Elysium.
