ZA/UM Unveils Project [C4]: An Enigmatic RPG
ZA/UM Studio, known for the critically acclaimed Disco Elysium, has announced its forthcoming project, provisionally named Project [C4]. This game is characterized as a “genre-defining RPG,” but specifics are still limited. A recently shared teaser trailer provides scant gameplay insights, yet it is laden with disturbing and intellectually stimulating visuals.
The revelation of Project [C4] has left fans speculating whether the game will incorporate the mechanics and artistic flair that made Disco Elysium a notable success. Although details remain confidential, a press release suggests that players may assume the role of a spy, with segments of the game possibly taking place within the human psyche.
The Tumultuous Journey of ZA/UM
Despite the buzz surrounding Project [C4], ZA/UM’s recent journey has been anything but seamless. Since Disco Elysium debuted in 2019, the studio has faced internal turmoil, including prominent dismissals, legal confrontations, and charges of misconduct.
In 2022, the newly appointed leadership at ZA/UM terminated significant members of the original Disco Elysium team, including creator Robert Kurvitz, art director Aleksander Rostov, and writer Helen Hindpere. The company accused them of misconduct and attempted IP theft—an ironic assertion, given that Disco Elysium originates from a novel authored by Kurvitz himself.
Legal Disputes and Allegations
Kurvitz and Rostov did not accept their dismissals lightly. They initiated lawsuits against ZA/UM, claiming their terminations were a direct consequence of their efforts to probe dubious financial practices within the company. They asserted that Estonian businessmen Ilmar Kompus and Tõnis Haavel, who took over ZA/UM, participated in questionable activities.
Significantly, both Kompus and Haavel have encountered legal issues before, with Haavel having been previously convicted of investment fraud. Additionally, reports emerged alleging that the new leadership fostered a toxic workplace, particularly impacting female staff. A former writer from Disco Elysium disclosed that at least five women had either departed or been pushed out of the studio since the game’s release, identifying Haavel as a key contributor.
The Future of ZA/UM and Its Former Team
As ZA/UM moves ahead with Project [C4], numerous former employees have embarked on new journeys. A collective of ex-ZA/UM developers has recently established a new studio named Longdue, aiming to create a spiritual successor to Disco Elysium.
In the meantime, Kurvitz and Rostov have launched their own company, Red Info, reportedly securing financial support from the Chinese gaming entity NetEase. Nevertheless, information regarding their upcoming project remains undisclosed.
What Awaits Fans from Project [C4]?
Given ZA/UM’s previous accomplishments with Disco Elysium, anticipation for Project [C4] is understandably elevated. The studio’s talent for crafting immersive, narrative-driven experiences has garnered it a loyal fan following. However, with a significant portion of the original creative team no longer involved, it remains uncertain if Project [C4] will uphold the legacy of its predecessor.
The teaser trailer hints at a psychological and espionage-themed narrative, potentially featuring surreal aspects reminiscent of those in Disco Elysium. Should the game indeed delve into the human brain as a narrative backdrop, it could introduce groundbreaking gameplay methodologies and storytelling approaches.
Conclusion
ZA/UM’s announcement of Project [C4] has sparked both excitement and skepticism. While the studio’s reputation for producing engaging RPGs is well-established, the controversies surrounding its leadership shifts and ongoing legal conflicts cast a shadow over its prospects.
At the same time, the original creators of Disco Elysium are charting their own courses, with new projects in development. Whether Project [C4] will emerge as a deserving successor or if fans will gravitate toward the offerings from Longdue and Red Info remains to be seen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Project [C4]?
Project [C4] is an upcoming RPG from ZA/UM, the creators of Disco Elysium. It is characterized as a “genre-defining” title, though insights into gameplay and story are still limited.
Will Project [C4] be akin to Disco Elysium?
It remains uncertain if Project [C4] will share similar mechanics or visual aesthetics to Disco Elysium. However, the game is anticipated to showcase a profound narrative and psychological themes.
Why were essential members of the Disco Elysium team let go?
Robert Kurvitz, Aleksander Rostov, and Helen Hindpere were dismissed in 2022 by the new leadership at ZA/UM. The studio alleged misconduct and attempted intellectual property theft, while the dismissed individuals have denied these allegations and filed lawsuits as a counteraction.
What has occurred with the original creators of Disco Elysium?
Kurvitz and Rostov have established a new studio, Red Info, and are reportedly involved in a new game project with financial backing from NetEase. Other former employees of ZA/UM have formed Longdue, dedicated to developing a spiritual successor to Disco Elysium.
Who is the current owner of ZA/UM?
ZA/UM is under the control of Estonian businessmen Ilmar Kompus and Tõnis Haavel. Haavel has a history of investment fraud, and both have been accused of creating a toxic workplace environment within the studio.
When is Project [C4] expected to launch?
Currently, there is no official release date for Project [C4]. Fans will need to await further announcements from ZA/UM.
Is there another game in the works similar to Disco Elysium?
Indeed, Longdue, a studio created by former ZA/UM staff, is working on a spiritual successor to Disco Elysium. Furthermore, Red Info, led by Kurvitz and Rostov, is developing a new project, although information remains limited.
