The events leading up to the cancellation of the standalone expansion X7 at ZA/UM studio were tumultuous, to say the least. What was once a studio that created a groundbreaking game, Disco Elysium, soon fell into disarray with the departure of key creative minds such as Robert Kurvitz, Rostov, and Hindpere. Insults were thrown, fraud was alleged, and tensions ran high within the studio. Despite the chaos, some key creative talent, like writer and narrative designer Justin Keenan, remained at the studio, fueling hopes for future projects.
The cancellation of X7 came as a shock to many, especially considering the promising future projects that were in the works at the studio. Nearly a quarter of the studio’s staff were laid off, including the lead writer for X7, Argo Tuulik. However, the circumstances surrounding Tuulik’s layoff were particularly troubling. According to fellow writer Dora Klindžić, there was a sense of resentment towards Tuulik for garnering too much support from fans, while the studio’s leadership felt neglected. This led to a targeted “humiliation campaign” against Tuulik, aimed at undermining his confidence and credibility within the studio.
The fallout from the cancellation of X7 and the subsequent layoffs left many employees feeling lost and disillusioned. Klindžić, who had left a successful career in academia to work on the sequel to Disco Elysium, found herself questioning her decision as she witnessed the turmoil within the studio. The lack of transparency surrounding the cancellation of projects and the treatment of key staff members only added to the frustration and confusion among the remaining employees.
As former employees reflect on their time at ZA/UM studio, it is clear that the cancellation of X7 was just the tip of the iceberg. The studio’s reputation as a creative powerhouse was overshadowed by internal conflicts and power struggles, ultimately leading to the departure of key talent and the cancellation of promising projects. The toxic work environment that emerged in the aftermath of these events serves as a cautionary tale for other studios in the industry, highlighting the importance of fostering a supportive and respectful workplace culture.
The story of X7 and the downfall of ZA/UM studio serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of success in the gaming industry. While Disco Elysium may have been a groundbreaking game that captured the hearts of many, the behind-the-scenes drama and mistreatment of staff members paint a darker picture of the studio’s inner workings. As fans and industry insiders alike reflect on this chapter in ZA/UM’s history, it is important to acknowledge the human cost of creative endeavors and the importance of valuing the contributions of all team members in the pursuit of success.
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