ZA/UM

ZA/UM Studio is an independent video game developer and publisher based primarily in London (UK), with additional operations in Tallinn (Estonia) and other European locations. The studio is best known for developing the critically acclaimed role-playing game Disco Elysium (2019) and its follow-up, Zero Parades: For Dead Spies (2026).
History
Origins as a Cultural Collective
ZA/UM began as an Estonian cultural and artistic collective in the late 2000s/early 2010s, founded by a group of writers, artists, and intellectuals. The name “ZA/UM” (or zaum) references the Russian avant-garde concept of transrational language and experimental poetry. The group was known for its provocative, leftist, and counter-cultural output, including publications, blogs (such as NIHILIST.FM), and cultural criticism. Key early members included Robert Kurvitz, Kaur Kender, Aleksander Rostov, Helen Hindpere, and Martin Luiga.
Transition to Game Development
In 2015–2016, the collective transitioned into a video game studio to adapt Robert Kurvitz’s tabletop RPG setting into a video game. The studio’s debut title, Disco Elysium, was released in October 2019 to widespread critical acclaim. It won numerous awards, including four Game Awards, and became one of the most highly regarded narrative RPGs of its generation.
Major Games

Disco Elysium (2019) – A revolutionary isometric narrative RPG set in the fictional world of Elysium. Praised for its deep writing, political themes, psychological mechanics, and innovative dialogue system.
Disco Elysium: The Final Cut (2021) – Expanded version with full voice acting and new content.
Zero Parades: For Dead Spies (2026) – The studio’s second major original title, a narrative-driven espionage RPG released on May 21, 2026.

Controversies and Leadership Changes (2021–2023)
In late 2021, significant internal conflicts arose following external investment. Key creative figures, including lead writer and designer Robert Kurvitz, art director Aleksander Rostov, and writer Helen Hindpere, were dismissed from the company. This led to public disputes, mutual accusations, and legal battles over ownership, intellectual property, and alleged financial misconduct. Several key developers left to form new studios (such as Longdue Games, Dark Math, and Summer Eternal).
The period was marked by layoffs, project cancellations, and intense public scrutiny. ZA/UM has maintained that the departures were due to misconduct, while former employees have alleged improper corporate takeovers.
Current Status (2026)
As of 2026, ZA/UM employs nearly 100 people across multiple locations. The studio released Zero Parades: For Dead Spies on May 21, 2026, marking its first major new game in seven years. It continues to operate as an independent developer and publisher, with ongoing merchandise lines (including clothing via Atelier ZA/UM) and support for its existing titles.
Leadership and Staff

The studio has undergone multiple leadership changes since 2021.
Current development emphasizes narrative depth, while attempting to move forward from the Disco Elysium legacy.