In troubling news for fans of the critically acclaimed video game Disco Elysium, reports have emerged regarding alleged mismanagement and mistreatment of staff at its developer, ZA/UM. A recent report by Video Games on Sports Illustrated (VGSI) reveals that ZA/UM is reportedly laying off a quarter of its workforce, resulting in the termination of 24 employees.

These layoffs come shortly after the cancellation of a project known as X7, which was said to be an expansion for Disco Elysium. The cancellation of X7 is claimed to be the third "big" project to be abandoned by ZA/UM. Previous canceled projects allegedly include a sequel to Disco Elysium codenamed Y12, which was cut in 2022, and a new sci-fi property called P1 that was shelved last year.

According to VGSI, sources indicate that ZA/UM's current predicament can be attributed to mismanagement within the studio. One source alleges that the company has become the very thing that Disco Elysium aimed to critique. Another source points out a lack of value placed on the existing talent, with a pattern of favoring new hires.

The situation at ZA/UM took a turn for the worse in late 2022 when three key staff members from Disco Elysium were reportedly ousted from the company. Lead designer Robert Kurvitz and art director Aleksander Rostov claimed their departures were not voluntary and accused ZA/UM of actively forcing them out, along with writer Helen Hindpere. Kurvitz subsequently filed a lawsuit against the company. ZA/UM, after facing another lawsuit filed by ex-EP Kaur Kender that was later dropped, stated its intention to address what it called baseless allegations from former employees.

Unfortunate reports also suggest hostile treatment of staff, with claims of active hostility and a pervasive "us vs. them" mentality directed towards both the old Disco Elysium team, the press, and even current employees.

While ZA/UM currently has two projects in development, the allegations of mismanagement and mistreatment have underscored concerns about the future of the studio. Critics argue that the issues faced by ZA/UM may undermine the potential success of their talented and dedicated staff.

Game Developer has reached out to ZA/UM for comment on the allegations made in VGSI's report and will update once a response is received. Fans of Disco Elysium and industry observers will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on this developing situation.

The full report by VGSI can be accessed [here].

Article by Justin Carter.