The new game from Disco Elysium's studio feels like the first Christmas after your parents' divorce
PC Gamer
by Joshua Wolens February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The new game from *Disco Elysium*’s studio, *Zero Parades: For Dead Spies*, defies the usual trappings of gaming marketing by openly embracing its roots and fractured history. Developed by ZA/UM, the same team behind the critically acclaimed *Disco Elysium*, *Zero Parades* is steeped in the DNA of its predecessor but with its own unique twists. The game’s narrative follows Hershel Wilks, a disgraced spy sent on a mission she barely understands, navigating a world defined by ideological extremes and personal failure. While it shares thematic and mechanical similarities with *Disco Elysium*, such as its use of skill checks and a detached, introspective storytelling style, *Zero Parades* feels like both a continuation and a bold step forward for the studio.
Mechanically, *Zero Parades* builds on the foundation laid by *Disco Elysium*. Players will encounter three distinct ability pools—physical, interpersonal, and intellectual—each with its own health bar. This system introduces an element of risk and strategy, as players can choose to “Exert” themselves during skill checks at the cost of damaging their ability pool’s health. The game also features a unique narrative voice that sets it apart from *Disco Elysium*, with a distinct tone that feels both ancient and adolescent, adding another layer of depth to its storytelling.
While *Zero Parades* leans heavily on the success of *Disco Elysium*, it manages to carve out its own identity. The game’s premise of a washed-out spy struggling through ideological extremes and personal redemption resonates strongly, particularly for fans of espionage fiction and RPGs with rich narrative depth. However, its reliance on familiar mechanics may leave some players wondering if it fully lives up to the legacy of *Disco Elysium*. Despite this, *Zero Parades* offers a compelling experience, blending innovative gameplay mechanics with a thought-provoking narrative that keeps players engaged in its world and characters.
For gamers interested in unique storytelling and mechanical innovation, *Zero Parades: For Dead Spies* is a must-play. Its ability to balance familiar elements from *Disco Elysium* with fresh ideas makes it a standout title in the RPG genre. While it may not yet reach the heights
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/19/2026