Exploring New Frontiers in Gaming
Reflecting on my gaming journey, I find it divided into two distinct eras: the time before I experienced Disco Elysium and the time that followed. The former was characterized by a series of increasingly mundane Bethesda RPGs and live-service shooters, which merely stimulated my desire for achievement. In contrast, the latter has been a quest for titles that evoke the same profound engagement as ZA/UM’s independent masterpiece.
To date, the closest contender I’ve encountered is Citizen Sleeper. While it diverges significantly from Disco Elysium in gameplay, its writing and character development resonate deeply, igniting the same enthusiasm in my literary sensibilities. I find myself drawn to the projects of Disco Elysium’s diverse creators, particularly the upcoming title from Red Rooster, crafted by writers Argo Tuulik and Dora Klindžić, though it remains unavailable for now.
The upcoming February 2026 Steam Next Fest is set to unveil not one, but two games that may appeal to fans like me. The first is Zero Parades, the successor to ZA/UM’s original creation. Despite the departure of the studio’s founding creators, I am curious to see what this new venture will produce. Many developers who contributed to the original vision of Revachol are still part of the team, and if they can deliver a title that captures even half the magic of Disco Elysium, it will likely surpass many other offerings this year.
Zero Parades promises a narrative steeped in espionage and intrigue. It has been some time since I indulged in a compelling spy game, and if ZA/UM manages to craft an engaging world for exploration, this demo could serve as a delightful interlude until the release of 007 First Light, which I anticipate will offer a markedly different experience.
Yet, my excitement peaks for the upcoming demo of Esoteric Ebb. At first glance, it may not seem like a direct successor to Disco Elysium—its aesthetic leans more towards Dungeons and Dragons than that of a hard-drinking detective. However, the initial demo captured the essence of Disco Elysium by seamlessly merging it with the beloved tabletop format.
In Esoteric Ebb, the Thought Cabinet is reimagined through classic D&D attributes, transforming the familiar 2d6 into a d20. This adaptation of Disco-like mechanics into a fantasy setting feels remarkably organic, bolstered by robust writing that enhances the experience. My enthusiasm for the first demo was palpable, and the upcoming Steam Next Fest promises another enticing glimpse into this unique cleric adventure.
For those who share a passion for Disco Elysium, the Steam Next Fest is an event not to be missed. Whether you approach Zero Parades with optimism or skepticism, it is worth exploring to witness what ZA/UM can create in the absence of its original visionaries. Meanwhile, Esoteric Ebb may very well emerge as the finest Disco-like experience I have encountered thus far. And who knows? There may be another hidden gem, reminiscent of Disco Elysium, waiting to be discovered within the depths of Valve’s festival. Keep your senses sharp and invest those points into Shivers; your next favorite game might be just around the corner.
