Disco Elysium Spiritual Successor In Development At New Studio
James Cusworth / 1 month ago
A group of former ZA/UM developers, the studio behind the critically acclaimed RPG Disco Elysium, have announced their new project. Operating under the banner of Longdue, this newly formed studio is developing a spiritual successor to Disco Elysium, featuring a “groundbreaking ‘psychogeographic RPG’ mechanic” that allows player choices to dynamically reshape the game world. This news comes amidst a flurry of activity surrounding Disco Elysium’s fifth anniversary, including the formation of a rival studio, Dark Math Games, also comprised of former ZA/UM staff.
A Psychogeographic RPG with Narrative Depth
Longdue’s debut RPG explores the delicate interplay between the conscious and subconscious, the seen and unseen. Set in a world where choices ripple between the character’s psyche and environment, players will navigate a constantly shifting landscape, shaped by both internal and external forces.
The game introduces a groundbreaking ‘psychogeographic RPG’ mechanic, where every decision reshapes both the world and the characters that inhabit it. In this experience, the lines between the mind and the environment blur, colliding and transforming with each choice, leading players through an ever-evolving narrative landscape.
A Legacy of Innovation
While Longdue’s debut project draws from the creative energy and legacy of Disco Elysium and other beloved RPGs, like Planescape: Torment, it’s also crafted to stand independently as a meaningful addition to the RPG genre. Longdue is committed to making games that carry the weight of thoughtful design and engaging storytelling, positioning the studio as a steady, dependable voice in RPG development.
Longdue aims to create games that resonate emotionally and intellectually. The studio is here to build a reputation for consistently delivering quality, with a focus on depth and narrative integrity. This is just the beginning of Longdue’s journey to become a trusted name in the greater RPG canon.
“At Longdue, we’re inspired by decades of classic RPGs, from Ultima and Wizardry, through Fallout and Planescape, to the justifiably adored Disco Elysium,” said Narrative Director Grant Roberts. “We’re excited to continue that legacy with another narrative-first, psychological RPG, where the interplay between inner worlds and external landscapes is the beating heart of the experience. We’re building a world-class team for a world-class game that will tell a world-class story, and we can’t wait to show you more.”
Longdue investor representative Riaz Moola says: “We are excited to back the work of an incredible team of creative talent and support the development of a new type of narrative-first video game experience and associated technology to improve the creation of these games across the video game industry.”
Fans can visit longduegames.com to join the community and be the first to hear more details about the studio’s upcoming game.
Key Points
- Spiritual Successor to Disco Elysium: Longdue’s debut project is developed with key creatives from the original Disco Elysium team and contributors to the unreleased sequel, carrying forward the thoughtful, narrative-first approach that defined its predecessor.
- Psychological Depth and Player Choice: The game explores the intricate relationship between mind and environment, offering players a story-driven experience where their choices shape both the world and its characters.
- Creative Pedigree with a Fresh Vision: Drawing inspiration from Disco Elysium, Planescape: Torment, and other classic RPGs, Longdue is crafting a new experience that blends established traditions with its own innovative ideas.
- Honoring a Legacy, Carving a New Path: Announced on the fifth anniversary of Disco Elysium, Longdue’s first project honors the cRPG canon while establishing itself as a steady and dependable voice in the future of isometric RPG design.