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Disco Elysium Is The Evolution Of The CRPG Genre

Disco Elysium is being built in the spirit of classic RPGs without feeling like a throwback title.  It could be something special indeed.

Formerly called No Truce With The Furies, Disco Elysium is part isometric RPG and part ‘hardboiled cop show’, according to the developers.

Were it not for the arrival of full 3D frameworks, Disco Elysium gives us an insight into how the CRPG could have evolved.

Players control a disgraced lieutenant detective.  Corruption is rife, crime is out of control, and murders go unsolved.  Players kick in doors, interrogate suspects and explore the gorgeously rendered city to unravel its mysteries.

Oh, and your character hears voices.  In fact, they deliver the key dialogue as the various voices vie for control, lending their own spin to the investigation and series of events.  More than providing commentary, though, the voices are tied to skill levelling – rather than sticking points in the standard intelligence, dexterity and strength categories, you’ll be strengthening your mental faculties, such as intellect, wit, greed and fear.

Disco Elysium boasts excellent writing and open quest design.  No playthrough should be the same thanks to how open-ended and truly shapable the game, quest and character progression are.

Disco Elysium is due out later this year for the PC.