ZA/UM. (2019). Disco Elysium [Video game]. ZA/UM.

Disco Elysium is an acclaimed role-playing video game developed and published by ZA/UM in 2019. Set in the fictional city of Revachol, the game follows an amnesiac detective who must solve a murder case while contending with his fragmented psyche and recovering lost memories. The game is characterized by its rich narrative, intricate world-building, and lack of traditional combat mechanics, setting it apart from conventional RPGs.

Gameplay emphasizes dialogue and decision-making, with most interactions occurring through extensive conversations with NPCs and the protagonist's inner voices, represented as different aspects of his psyche. These voices, tied to a robust skill system, shape the detective’s personality and responses. Players allocate skill points into four primary attributes—Intellect, Psyche, Physique, and Motorics—which are further divided into 24 unique skills. These skills not only affect how the character interacts with the world but also "talk" to the protagonist, adding layers of introspection and narrative depth.

The game employs a unique dice-rolling mechanic for skill checks, blending chance with player choices. Success or failure in these checks influences story progression and character development. Instead of combat, Disco Elysium focuses on skill-based interactions and moral dilemmas, offering players significant freedom to role-play. The Thought Cabinet system further enhances gameplay, allowing players to unlock and internalize various ideologies and personality traits that impact gameplay and dialogue options.

Disco Elysium’s hand-painted art style, jazz-inspired soundtrack, and philosophical undertones have earned it widespread critical acclaim. The game received several awards, including multiple BAFTAs, for its narrative, art direction, and innovative design. A 2021 expanded version, The Final Cut, introduced full voice acting and additional political quests, further solidifying its reputation as a groundbreaking work in the RPG genre.