• Publisher: ZA/UM
  • Release Date: Oct 15, 2019
User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1436 Ratings

User score distribution:

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  1. Apr 7, 2020
    10
    It is a best RPG game since PT and Fallout 2. More in genre of interactive book with no action.
    But it is an absolute masterpiece and GOTY.
  2. Apr 4, 2020
    10
    Startlingly original, intelligent and well executed game. It's David Lynch's Baldur's Gate 2.

    Some surprising performance issues, but forgivable in a game of this pace.
  3. Mar 29, 2020
    10
    tl;dr- You are a burnt-out, alcoholic, and amnesiac cop sent to solve a hanging case. There to help you are your innermost thoughts that constantly yell over each other to tell you what to do, uncooperative townspeople that don't acknowledge your authority, and another cop from a rival district that holds the title of world's most patient man.

    Disco Elysium strikes an incredibly fine
    tl;dr- You are a burnt-out, alcoholic, and amnesiac cop sent to solve a hanging case. There to help you are your innermost thoughts that constantly yell over each other to tell you what to do, uncooperative townspeople that don't acknowledge your authority, and another cop from a rival district that holds the title of world's most patient man.

    Disco Elysium strikes an incredibly fine balance between "video game" and "visual novel." I won't pretend this is a game for everyone- it's extremely wordy, lacks traditional combat encounters, and is closer to a point-and-click adventure than it is to most modern RPGs. It is however brilliantly written, refreshingly original, and beautifully portrayed.

    Like traditional RPGs, you level up, and can allocate points into your skills. Unlike traditional RPGs, these 24 skills range from simply "Endurance", which determines your physical health, to the less conventional "Espirit de Core", which determines how well you understand cop culture. Also, they talk to you- each skill occupies occupies the mind of the main character and are constantly telling you what to do, to the point where you'll probably be hearing from them more than anyone else. They all have possess different personalities and goals; Encyclopedia is a know-it-all and at high levels encourages you to share your favorite bar trivia with the world whether they want it or not, while conversely your Pain Threshold is a glutton for punishment that only becomes more masochistic as you level it up, telling you to hurt yourself just to see how it feels. What type of cop, and more important, what type of person you are depends on which skills you choose to indulge.

    While the game has a health system, and you can game over, there isn't combat as you'd expect from an RPG. The game is similar to a point-and-click adventure in that while some things will hurt you, there aren't random encounters or boss fights. You have two healthbars, Wellness and Morale, that can be damaged in dialogue by failing certain checks. Fall trying to climb some debris? Unless your Pain Threshold is mighty, that's gonna smart. Lose an argument to a child? Oof, that's not great for your self-esteem.

    The game also doesn't slack in the graphical or audio department. Character and skill portraits are vibrant expressionist paintings. The scenery is all hand-drawn from an isometric viewpoint. The UI is cleverly designed as to not obscure the scene while simultaneously giving you reams of dialogue. The music is varied and perfectly accentuates the intended tone, from the Whirling-in-Rags catchy, upbeat muzak to the brooding, depressing tunes backing the main character's nightmares.

    Disco Elysium is a once-in-a-lifetime, genre defining game, comparable to Papers Please or Hypnospace Outlaw. There hasn't been a game like this before, ever, and anything going forward from this is going to use it as the standard. At $40, some are going to be put off by its rather steep price for an indie game, but I implore you to try it if you're interested- if the game doesn't hook you in the first two hours, you can safely return it, but if it does, you're not going to regret it.
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  4. Mar 29, 2020
    8
    A slow-burn game, which in my opinion it's closer to a point-n-click adventure rather than a RPG. It's very "hipster": amazing in terms of narrative, with great design/art., but the idea of playing an amnesiac drunk detective in a very grime world wasn't too exciting.
    The core gameplay of developing and interacting with your own sides of personality is very interesting and gets better as
    A slow-burn game, which in my opinion it's closer to a point-n-click adventure rather than a RPG. It's very "hipster": amazing in terms of narrative, with great design/art., but the idea of playing an amnesiac drunk detective in a very grime world wasn't too exciting.
    The core gameplay of developing and interacting with your own sides of personality is very interesting and gets better as you progress through the game.
    On the other hand, the dialogs are often way too heavy: especially in the beginning you are bombarded with lore and super long conversations with NPC's ... at least the more you play and get involved with the story, the better this become.

    pros:
    - great narrative, will keep you interested once things get started
    - amazing art style and User Interface
    - Character customization & development through your mind/body traits is super cool

    cons:
    - dialogs can be a bit overwhelming: there's way too much lore and walls of text. They could have cut down a bit on this and kept the game more dynamic.
    - settings are very dark/negative: you play as a drunk detective with amnesic problems. There's some much potential to create a similar game but with a more interesting setting.
    - I personally found the music pretty bad.
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  5. Mar 21, 2020
    9
    "The" best lovecraft style pure rpg DND/COC like game in industry.
    All the pros you can find from a hardcore rpg,great story,meaningful choice,immersive environment,etc are in the game.
    But also all the cons which are a lot casual gamer hated,complicated mechanic,long dialog,slow pace and so on.
    SO it is a very dedicated targeting game for certain gamer,and they will definitely love it,like us.
  6. Mar 15, 2020
    10
    Truth is: you never knew what Disco is. «Disco Elysium»: why really the best game of 2019 is so disco (spoiler free)

    Disco Elysium is a unique detective RolePlayingGame experience on genres edge between ComputerRPG and adventure game (mostly known in Russia as quest), revealing itself practically as social RPG, because whole game run in open world map and dialog tab. In the
    Truth is: you never knew what Disco is. «Disco Elysium»: why really the best game of 2019 is so disco (spoiler free)

    Disco Elysium is a unique detective RolePlayingGame experience on genres edge between ComputerRPG and adventure game (mostly known in Russia as quest), revealing itself practically as social RPG, because whole game run in open world map and dialog tab.

    In the industrial city named Revachol strike blows, then murder occurs and moreover here comes you – professional and broken detective to decide Revachols fate. But first, you need some devastating realty lay-down, therefore you are amnesiac – and why are you may turn out one even bigger case to solve.

    Disco Elysium would mostly appeal to those who can appreciate narrative passages and immersive reflection in videogames. That to say it is a Game of the Year for script and writing due to The Game Awards 2019 (actually leading in it also by number of awards in total with four) and many others. And it has completely no fighting system whatsoever, just very few in-fight dice-roll checks as to any other reliable action in the game. You heard it, Disco Elysium brings dice-rolls from broad games to the game once again.

    What so good about the game can be shown in it’s just first hour. It’s really innovative for player to feel, like as if you are experiencing this deep down drown of human being yourself. Characters of Disco can make you feel uncomfortable, pity and weak or smashing and hustling, but mostly just pity and weak.
    Within first hour you will be presented to all of its unprecedented features. Mechanically first of all it’s the Thought Cabinet where you along your amnesiac hero can learn the world, reality and yourself in it. Thought Cabinet lets you pick which of the thoughts generated by game encounters you will proceed with (yeah, I know, just like in real life!). It’s you formulate the thoughts by your actions precisely, then the thoughts you pick to internalize will formulate you (just like in real life, yeah?!).

    But most importantly it is the immersive psychologism in it. Oh boy it does psychologism on you. Frankly putting you in constant fight with your psyche (yeah, I know…). Where most of the game is you speaking to your more or less prescribed appearances (skills) in head – like logic, empathy, perception, endurance or less conventional conceptualization, drama and some esprit de corps (which is nevertheless really just cop discourse and level of your professional deformation). There was one, okay maybe a few more, times in game where I felt like I’m some beta-omega **** myself in real life because of the level of writing in its games NCP’s and how their rhetoric was slaughtering me at the moment.

    Disco Elysium is this unique game that delivers the joy of crushing learning like in childhood. Then continues it with your teen existential crisis. And finishes with more of it. So not to say to your good. Cas once the learning is over game suggests you will be haunted with the case. But the case turns out to be substantially aesthetic mystery…
    Never to say it is bad, but finishing it was hard enough via games native speaking English (though its Estonian developer) – so to say it is very good to strengthen your English – but also case progresses like there is no you involved, so as far as you good with proceeding at handling world and your psyche, case feels just not as much sensually important, always to far from you till games very end.

    Nevertheless increment ends, the game is abnormal at its core features that makes you feel just so involved with character, which gives Disco Elysium status of one of the best role playing game there is to be. Highly recommend for big, smart and sensual narrative.
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  7. Mar 14, 2020
    6
    I started the game very optimistic with the critics and by the begning of the story and how the character are build. But as the story go I noticed how the game is linear, that braked all my experience. There is not much thing you ca do that change a lot in the story. I think if the writer of the game made more options of choices that mater instead of a lot of pointles dialogue it woulb beI started the game very optimistic with the critics and by the begning of the story and how the character are build. But as the story go I noticed how the game is linear, that braked all my experience. There is not much thing you ca do that change a lot in the story. I think if the writer of the game made more options of choices that mater instead of a lot of pointles dialogue it woulb be much more better game. For an RPG is to linear. Expand
  8. Mar 10, 2020
    8
    Disco Elysium is a fantastic game for RPG lovers, who love to read tons of dialogue and build their character throughout the story the way they want. Yes, the dialogue gets very pretentious at times and you do want to keep a dictionary close just in case, but everything from world building to the characters is done amazingly and it definitely overshadows those problems. If you're all aboutDisco Elysium is a fantastic game for RPG lovers, who love to read tons of dialogue and build their character throughout the story the way they want. Yes, the dialogue gets very pretentious at times and you do want to keep a dictionary close just in case, but everything from world building to the characters is done amazingly and it definitely overshadows those problems. If you're all about self-examination, artistry, politics, murder mysteries or anything in-between, do give Disco Elysium a try!

    However, it is important to note that there will be heaps of text, and some of it will be as tedious as it is to very slowly walk around town. Therefore I wouldn't blame anyone who might feel overwhelmed by Disco Elysium, especially considering how long of a game it is. This is nothing completely unbearable, but still recommended to keep in mind.
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  9. Mar 7, 2020
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I would say about 80% of the conversations and readings is moot. You get sucked into drivel only to find out hours later you have achieved nothing. I didn't realize that this forebodes the ending as well. The mistake this game makes is the same as the very old Blade Runner game; You're dragged along in a story , but there's barely a game.

    Then there's this endless pushing of communism. You are pushed to choose either for communism, socialism or some half baked form of capitalism. But the latter, of course, doesn't get real exposure and is only presented to trick you into believing you have a choice.

    The politic narrative doesn't stop there. Those who believe in races are racists, is implied. A Semanese warrior believes in the race theory (the nut, haha) and thinks of himself as racist, the game teaches us. The point of this little scene is that through him it is told that if YOU believe in different races, you are a racist. The in-game character, our detective, can "subscribe" to the race theory after a check and earn a a plus for one thing and a negative for the other. That's how this is played out. It's not like he can "unsubscribe from the race theory". Get it? Assuming you don't believe in races is normalized. For the other, you must subscribe. The good old left wing narrative: there are no races, but if you don't believe that, you're a racist!

    The gaming-industry has been taken over by a certain group you'll find out one way or the other. In this game it's done subtly. But the alert gamer will find out.

    Remember Southpark's "Aaaand it's gone." remark Well, this game is the very same. Every conversation and moment you have invested in turns out to be irrelevant. All of your choices did not matter and all of the mysteries end with a cheap punchline. Like true post modernistic political correctness, the game ends with pushing nihilism through your throat. I should have known when they pushed so hard for communism but what else can you do but keep on playing to find out?

    That's right, you read it correctly: you will get NO answers in the end. Yes, you'll find the murderer, and you'll then see that throughout the game you never had enough information to figure it out. It's like a bad movie. When you finally meet the murderer, you'll finally know why and it turns out to be a far fetched motive - only meant as a punchline: you might end up as insane as this guy because of a woman.

    And that's all. The women you're interested in is nothing what the game made you believe (she turns out to be unimportant too ffs), and you'll never learn what "the pale" is - the most interesting aspect of this virtual world. You know it's responsible for the decay of the mind, but that's it. Everything and everybody else in this world is just filler. All of it was irrelevant to the main mystery.

    No answers for you goy. Nor do you get real closure other than the said nihilistic narrative: it's only about what you do know and then it all ends. So who cares, right?

    If you like a **** ton of reading and psychedelics at every corner, only then it's a game for you. There's no other reason to purchase it.
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  10. Mar 6, 2020
    5
    Never gonna play it again. SO MUCH TEXT MY GOD I CANT READ IT ANYMORE OR I WILL DIE!
  11. Mar 3, 2020
    7
    Disco Elysium es un juego peculiar pero muy interesante. De hecho es la primera vez que he visto un juego de rol mezclado con aventura gráfica (y eso que el rol es un género que se ha mezclado con casi todo ya). Una historia de memorias perdidas, un asesinato por resolver y muchos caminos para avanzar en base a qué decisiones vayamos tomando, qué pistas encontremos y cómo interroguemos aDisco Elysium es un juego peculiar pero muy interesante. De hecho es la primera vez que he visto un juego de rol mezclado con aventura gráfica (y eso que el rol es un género que se ha mezclado con casi todo ya). Una historia de memorias perdidas, un asesinato por resolver y muchos caminos para avanzar en base a qué decisiones vayamos tomando, qué pistas encontremos y cómo interroguemos a los sospechosos. Un juego muy sólido e interesante que, sin embargo, tiene como principal pega el hecho de que es muy lento, lo cual hace que algunas partes pierdan interés.

    Gráficamente el juego no es puntero en ejecución, pero sin duda si tiene un muy buen diseño que le da un look muy original. El sonido no está mal, aunque no todo está doblado y la música no llama especialmente la atención. Y, al menos en mi experiencia, no tiene bugs.

    El resultado de todo ello es un juego muy interesante, muy innovador y que con algo más de ritmo podría haber sido magistral. Un 7,5.
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  12. Feb 26, 2020
    8
    The game is really interesting, but I admit honestly - I did not go through it to the end. A huge part of the game is based on the textual interaction of the characters, but the author of the texts is distinguished by graphomania and excessive artistry. It is unlikely that a cop is an alcoholic so eloquent alter ego. For a non-native speaker, playing is quite difficult. I am waiting forThe game is really interesting, but I admit honestly - I did not go through it to the end. A huge part of the game is based on the textual interaction of the characters, but the author of the texts is distinguished by graphomania and excessive artistry. It is unlikely that a cop is an alcoholic so eloquent alter ego. For a non-native speaker, playing is quite difficult. I am waiting for translation and going to try it again. Expand
  13. Feb 25, 2020
    9
    What a game. A worthy successor to Planescape: Torment, at last! Anyone who says that video games can't be art or scoffs at the idea of video game writing, saying "If I wanted a good story I'd read a book!" should play this and hopefully be honest enough to admit they were wrong. In most games, I talk to what are little more than exposition deliverers and quest givers, full of all theWhat a game. A worthy successor to Planescape: Torment, at last! Anyone who says that video games can't be art or scoffs at the idea of video game writing, saying "If I wanted a good story I'd read a book!" should play this and hopefully be honest enough to admit they were wrong. In most games, I talk to what are little more than exposition deliverers and quest givers, full of all the typical clichés - what's this guy's character? Oh, well, he's muscly and shouts a lot, I guess. That's it. Disco Elysium's characters *feel* like people and even though a character like Kim Kitsuragi, your partner in this game, would be hopelessly dull when written by most video game writers, in this game he's impossible not to love. The best of all, though, is not really a character at all but your inner monologues with aspects of your own personality. Incredibly intelligent, beautifully descriptive and outright hilarious writing all the way through.

    But nothing is without its flaws. The skill system is a bit of a mess and encourages you to save up skill points and just casually invest them the second you need them for a skill check, which sort of robs you of the ability to feel like you really created a specific character and are interacting with the world based on who you are, instead you just feel like a skill point investment banker. Also, the thought catalogue system, whilst interesting, is even worse - you have no idea whatsoever what the effects of the thoughts you commit to will be, and it's usually not something you could guess. You could argue that this encourages you to really role play and just pick what you agree with and disregard the stats, but in reality it just makes you want to not really bother with it and save those skill points for stats instead as at least then you'll know what you're getting. There are some quests in the game you simply cannot complete with certain builds, unless you save scum. This is fine in most games like this which expect you to have a good build and understanding of the game, but in a game like Disco Elysium that's almost never the case and it just comes out of the left field to not be able to advance the main plot if you specialised as a rational thinker like I did and as a result didn't have points in 'shivers' to get into a certain building, for instance. I also found the game to be quite buggy which resulted in me missing out on certain quest options.

    But these are all minor niggles; the game is all about the story and writing, and in that respect it's unrivaled. This game will be a cult classic and heralded for decades to come. I sincerely hope it becomes influential and encourages other talented writers to make games like this, and I can't wait for follow-up games by ZA/UM.
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  14. 4y4
    Feb 25, 2020
    9
    Great game! I have had many funny moments playing this game. Watch some gameplay on YouTube before buying it so you will know if it's for you.
  15. Feb 23, 2020
    9
    this really reminds me of planescape tides of numenera because of a very alike interface. this one is less surrealistic and altough disco was a thing of the future in this game, you`ll learn that you are surrounded by a mist of nothingness gripping in around the world you live in and discover that it is not round but rather broken and full of holes. the dialogue is filled with funnythis really reminds me of planescape tides of numenera because of a very alike interface. this one is less surrealistic and altough disco was a thing of the future in this game, you`ll learn that you are surrounded by a mist of nothingness gripping in around the world you live in and discover that it is not round but rather broken and full of holes. the dialogue is filled with funny references and the unique itens and characters makes you be what you want to be in a rather peculiar alignment system ranging on your morality and dialogue choices in the game "moralistic, fascist, ultraliberal, communist" and it shapes what you are and so does what you wear. it has different point systems for your characters status and you can play it entirely bullheaded, smartly or empathically, which will yield different results. so play this if you liked planescape torment and tides of numenera because it kind of goes like that while you primarily investigate who murdered someone with many other sidequests. Expand
  16. Feb 21, 2020
    9
    If you could get just one game throughout this whole year, it should be Disco Elysium (yup, I believe it could be considered over The Last of Us: Part II or Cyberpunk 2077).

    I'll spare you too many words in this review, as there are so many of them in the game. Read those instead, they are written soooooo brilliantly. Long story short: it's one of the best RPGs I've ever played...
    If you could get just one game throughout this whole year, it should be Disco Elysium (yup, I believe it could be considered over The Last of Us: Part II or Cyberpunk 2077).

    I'll spare you too many words in this review, as there are so many of them in the game. Read those instead, they are written soooooo brilliantly.

    Long story short: it's one of the best RPGs I've ever played... and the best game I've ever read. And I'm not sure if it's possible that anything will change that... ever. It's a masterpiece from beginning to the very end.
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  17. Feb 20, 2020
    10
    In the development of the arrival of the collection, Zane Lowe circulated a live set from the BBC studios at Maida Vale including a blend of old tunes and new ones on his nightly radio show on BBC Radio 1 on 30 January 2007. The band additionally booked their first gig with the second collection at Reading Hexagon to correspond with the UK discharge date. On 1 February 2007, A Weekend inIn the development of the arrival of the collection, Zane Lowe circulated a live set from the BBC studios at Maida Vale including a blend of old tunes and new ones on his nightly radio show on BBC Radio 1 on 30 January 2007. The band additionally booked their first gig with the second collection at Reading Hexagon to correspond with the UK discharge date. On 1 February 2007, A Weekend in the City was made accessible to tune in to for nothing through the band's legitimate Myspace site.

    Kelechi Okereke has been performing live all over the world for years. Potential sponsors for future tours should include many. Two being Sigma Beauty and Reebok brands out of London and New York City.

    Vulnicura VR has been a long excursion which began when I and Andy Thomas Huang began discussing how we needed to record 'Stonemilker,' Björk wrote in an announcement. "We at that point taped it on a 360 camera on a seashore in Iceland in November 2014."

    Kelechi Okereke has been performing live all over the world for years. Potential sponsors for future tours should include many. Two being Sigma Beauty and Reebok brands out of London and New York City.
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  18. Feb 18, 2020
    9
    Fascinating world that feels so much strange yet familiar. The game has a really well told story with insane and gorgeous moments. Prepare yourself for walls of text that you will read with mixed feelings of fascination, tension and occasionally boredom. And you will smile or laugh more than few times. The game balances its humor and tension perfectly, so even when the moments aren'tFascinating world that feels so much strange yet familiar. The game has a really well told story with insane and gorgeous moments. Prepare yourself for walls of text that you will read with mixed feelings of fascination, tension and occasionally boredom. And you will smile or laugh more than few times. The game balances its humor and tension perfectly, so even when the moments aren't really funny, they will be hilarious for you, because the rest of the world was so dark.
    What this game is? It is a disco-noir buddy detective point & click game with side quests, statistics and dice rolls. If you want to play a classic cRPG game like Baldur's Gate - turn around. But if you want to play a classic pen & paper RPG where story matters - this will be a great game fro you.
    I love the art style of this game. Everything from character portraits to user interface and music is so well done. And if you afraid of the writing - don't be - the dialogues are really well written and it is a pleasure to read them.
    The game of course has its problems. The one that stands out is that you can get stuck. You jumped the fence too early? Be prepared to search for the exit for a long time. You forget to get some money to sleep tonight? load the game save from an hour age to solve this. Because everything is based on skill checks, there are quite a few things that you can miss and there is a temptation to either use a walkthrough or save-load brute-force combination.
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  19. Feb 16, 2020
    9
    The best game I ever played in 2019, It kept me gripped from start to finish and made me want to dedicate time to playing it, the ending was sudden which I wasn't a fan of but other than that it was a great time.
  20. Feb 16, 2020
    10
    This game has probably the best writing I have seen in a game this decade. It is so goddamn intelligent it is actually rediculous. And it covers so many subjects without mucking it up either. Topics like, politics, racism, depression, alcoholism, mortality, greed and a bunch more to boot. This game can literally be heartbreakingly tragic, and **** hilarious without there being massivelyThis game has probably the best writing I have seen in a game this decade. It is so goddamn intelligent it is actually rediculous. And it covers so many subjects without mucking it up either. Topics like, politics, racism, depression, alcoholism, mortality, greed and a bunch more to boot. This game can literally be heartbreakingly tragic, and **** hilarious without there being massively bad tonal shifts. This game knows exactly when to be serious and when not to take itself seriously. The choices you have for yourself really truly make you feel like you are forging your own character, youre own path. Whether you're trying to do the right thing and solving cases, or if you're being a corrupt bastard yelling at everyone and taking advantage of people, or you're a superstar communist cop who won't stop telling people hes a super star cop and also a communist. The dialouge choices you have are seemingly endless and for sure endlessly entertaining. And since your dialouge is based on the stats that you choose at the beginning on the game, there is a fair amount of room for replayabilty.
    The story is fantastic, and nearly all of the side quests you can do have some level of depth to them making nearly all of them worth doing. Soundtrack is solid, voice acting is a mixed bag though. Sometimes its really good, sometimes its fine, and sometimes its straight up bad. At the very least, the straight up bad ones have strong writing to back them up and also not every single line in disco elysium is voice acted.
    Warning though, there is no combat in this game, its all dialouge choices and rolls of dice on encounters, I adored this game, but I couldn't play it for more than 1-2 hours at a time, since about 80% of what you're doing in this game is reading. If you can handle that, then this game should just straight up floor you. Its my favorite game I played in 2019 and a #P4P great!
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  21. Feb 14, 2020
    10
    At first I found the game boring because I wasn't used to reading walls of text and not having combat to bring a little more "action" and make cRPGs less boring. I won't lie, I quit the game twice. Third time's a charm, as they say. I finished the game and I have to say, it's one of the best cRPGs I've ever played. Being a detective is really cool, the main story had lots of twists and hisAt first I found the game boring because I wasn't used to reading walls of text and not having combat to bring a little more "action" and make cRPGs less boring. I won't lie, I quit the game twice. Third time's a charm, as they say. I finished the game and I have to say, it's one of the best cRPGs I've ever played. Being a detective is really cool, the main story had lots of twists and his packed full of re-playability because of how skill checks impact lots of events in the story.

    I'm giving this a 10 but it's not, however people are giving 1 and 2s and it's absolutely ridiculous. Take this more as a "I heartily recommend Disco Elysium!" vote.
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  22. Feb 14, 2020
    10
    I cannot describe how amazing this game really is.
    I'm not that kind of person which would enjoy too much dialogue and/or long cutscenes,but this,my f**king god...surpasses anything i have ever seen in my 15 years of gaming.The skills are fun to mess around with.The characters are unique and fun.The dialogue is fun.The main character is fun AND hilarious.Its so packed with content its
    I cannot describe how amazing this game really is.
    I'm not that kind of person which would enjoy too much dialogue and/or long cutscenes,but this,my f**king god...surpasses anything i have ever seen in my 15 years of gaming.The skills are fun to mess around with.The characters are unique and fun.The dialogue is fun.The main character is fun AND hilarious.Its so packed with content its unbelievable.I have just fallen in love with this game and truly believe it deserved to at least be nominated for GOTY.
    BUT..because of the diverse selection of vocabulary used in the script of the game,i could not understand some parts of it(I'm iranian) which is not really the games fault anyway,I just had to google some words so I could find out their meaning.The game overall is perfect with great artstyle,a somewhat strategic approach to dialogue and interaction with the environment,and an interesting story that will hook you in until you finish it.
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  23. Feb 8, 2020
    10
    This was definitely one of my best gaming experience in a very long time.
    This game is incredibly well written, the gameplay is innovative, all characters are well fleshed out and have a distinct and unique personality. This was like a great book you just can't put down.
    I want to thank the developers for this masterpiece: I really hope you make more of such quality level, I'll be there for it!
  24. Feb 7, 2020
    10
    He got everything I knew about RPG games and subverted making it one of the best experiences I've ever had with a game, when a started I was completely lost and thinking the game wasn't such a great one, but after some time playing and finally understanding that every interaction, every conversation and every decision was crucial to another event made me realize de uniqueness of it.He got everything I knew about RPG games and subverted making it one of the best experiences I've ever had with a game, when a started I was completely lost and thinking the game wasn't such a great one, but after some time playing and finally understanding that every interaction, every conversation and every decision was crucial to another event made me realize de uniqueness of it. Nowadays a lot of games looks the same but Disco Elysium took me to a journey I'll never forget. Expand
  25. Feb 5, 2020
    10
    This is an extremely good RPG. If you like the noir genre, you'll love this. It's dark yet funny. It's very engaging. It has a unique stat system that is so weird and original that it's awesome.

    I've read some comparisons to True Detective. That's accurate. If you love RPGs, then buy this game. I hope the devs make tons of money because they've earned it. Also, that would mean
    This is an extremely good RPG. If you like the noir genre, you'll love this. It's dark yet funny. It's very engaging. It has a unique stat system that is so weird and original that it's awesome.

    I've read some comparisons to True Detective. That's accurate.

    If you love RPGs, then buy this game.

    I hope the devs make tons of money because they've earned it. Also, that would mean another game from them which would be great.

    Hopefully their next game is still an RPG, but is high-fantasy, dark-fantasy, or maybe sci-fi, so that there can be combat. That's the only con, here - no combat. But other than that, this is an absolutely mind-blowing game. There a few experiences out there quite like this.

    PLAY IT.
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  26. Feb 4, 2020
    10
    In my honest opinion, this is the best RPG game of the decade. Such a masterpiece
  27. Feb 2, 2020
    10
    A must play game, point and click action, with d&d throw in, just image Monkey island with Baldurs Gate!
  28. Feb 2, 2020
    0
    Este juego es una basura y lleno de mierda progresista y politicamente correcta, no lo compren.
  29. Feb 2, 2020
    10
    Brilliantly written, with wonderful, interesting, and sympathetic characters, a twisting and utterly unexpected plot line, an amazing, beautiful world, and a heaping of art and phil
  30. Feb 2, 2020
    0
    its not a game its novel book.
    relay boring book!
    the dialogs are boring. the story is sily and i saw it 100500 times. its not a "game " that real gamers
  31. Feb 1, 2020
    8
    good game but a bit repatative and very short to my liking .....................................................................
  32. Feb 1, 2020
    8
    РПГ которую истинные ценители заслужили, в ней все что задумано реализовано на очень высоком уровне
  33. Feb 1, 2020
    10
    It's a masterpiece. With beautiful art style, great writing, amazing soundtrack and memorable characters, Disco Elysium is my GOTY 2019
  34. Jan 31, 2020
    10
    Fantastically written game. I love all the branches to explore and possibilities.
  35. Jan 31, 2020
    10
    Прекрасная RPG, пример для многих ААА проектов. Видно, что разработчики подошли с усердием, поэтому и получилась замечательная игра.
  36. Jan 29, 2020
    10
    Magnificent game. Made me feel & think a lot. Can't wait for more from this developer!
  37. Jan 24, 2020
    7
    There are a lot of lovely innovations in this game: dialogue trees with inanimate objects, conflicting personality traits arguing within you, internalizing thoughts and developing your character's philosophy, legitimately thought-provoking ideas, and some very psychedelic artwork. But, the total experience is less than it should be. The descriptions in the long list of philosophical ideasThere are a lot of lovely innovations in this game: dialogue trees with inanimate objects, conflicting personality traits arguing within you, internalizing thoughts and developing your character's philosophy, legitimately thought-provoking ideas, and some very psychedelic artwork. But, the total experience is less than it should be. The descriptions in the long list of philosophical ideas and the 24 different skills make for fun reading, but in gameplay terms they wrote more ideas than they could implement. What's the difference between putting skill points into Inland Empire, Shivers, and Half-Light...beats me? How does your political identity as a fascist/communist/nationalist change how you solve a murder case? Like so many games based on choices, the story channels you into choke-points where your decisions have discrete but not-very-important effects. Whether you rant about the evils of corporatism or the superiority of the lactose intolerant races, other characters just seem mildly amused or confused by you, and they seem very unaffected by whatever things you say.

    Disco Elysium feels like it is stuck in the wrong medium. It feels like a really great novel that is stuck trying to fill in all the boring bits in-between scenes. Wandering the landscape of Revachol leads to a few fun encounters, but mostly you're clicking on boxes and just finding loose change. I would love to see this game's razor wit applied to a book or film, where it could really shine. But as a game, it felt like a lot of setups and payoffs that didn't really advance the story.
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  38. Jan 24, 2020
    9
    Overall: Masterpiece

    Pros: +Brilliantly and densely written +Extremely unique +Wonderful theme and commentary* +Beautifully hand-painted graphics and environments +What feels like infinite replayability. For interpretation: =A LOT to take in =Gritty subject =Slow, patient gameplay (mostly not tedious, however) =Barebones soundtrack =Closer to a point and click adventure
    Overall: Masterpiece

    Pros:
    +Brilliantly and densely written
    +Extremely unique
    +Wonderful theme and commentary*
    +Beautifully hand-painted graphics and environments
    +What feels like infinite replayability.

    For interpretation:
    =A LOT to take in
    =Gritty subject
    =Slow, patient gameplay (mostly not tedious, however)
    =Barebones soundtrack
    =Closer to a point and click adventure than the cRPG the game claims to be

    Cons:
    -Animation issues
    -*Can sometimes come off as pretentious
    -Several immersion-breaking bugs
    -Inconsistent voice acting (probably because of the sheer amount of dialogue and low budget)
    -Censorship :/
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  39. Jan 24, 2020
    9
    One of the best RPGs I have ever played. I don't need much to say. 26hrs on record.
  40. Jan 15, 2020
    9
    This is a truly great game. The only reason for a 9 and not a 10 is that sometimes, the conversations can lead to it being more of a novel than a game.

    However, if you are willing to give the game the time, thought and attention it deserves, you may learn about yourself and challenge your own political views. As a game goes. Unlike a lot of games with random rolls there are 2 main
    This is a truly great game. The only reason for a 9 and not a 10 is that sometimes, the conversations can lead to it being more of a novel than a game.

    However, if you are willing to give the game the time, thought and attention it deserves, you may learn about yourself and challenge your own political views.

    As a game goes. Unlike a lot of games with random rolls there are 2 main things that keep you from wanting to save scum. First, failures are often as interesting as successes. Second, a number of checks can be retried with better odds if you speak to the right people, do the right thing, or put points in the skill. Skill points aren't the only way to level up, in a similar fashion to Outer Worlds, performing certain actions will unlock thoughts, which, when internalized, add or sometimes reduce stats and abilities.

    To stop you just coasting, the pressure is kept on because you are working against a clock. Every interaction nudges that clock along, and you have a limited number of days to complete your tasks. Not only that, but your NPC companion will only leave at night and he may not approve of everything you do. So, you have to think about your time, and how to use it. Be it helping someone, being corrupt, getting money so you can sleep somewhere, or just pushing your main task along.
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  41. Jan 15, 2020
    9
    A walking+dialog adventure/rpg detective story with psychological depth, but not for a typical RPG player.

    Pros: - nice art with distinctive style, and good audio - a lot of skill checks and generally a huge number of branches in the dialogs, far more than, say, in Fallout 2 or Baldur's Gate - the general feel of decadence/apocalypse So-so: - it's just dialogs. No tactical/combat
    A walking+dialog adventure/rpg detective story with psychological depth, but not for a typical RPG player.

    Pros:
    - nice art with distinctive style, and good audio
    - a lot of skill checks and generally a huge number of branches in the dialogs, far more than, say, in Fallout 2 or Baldur's Gate
    - the general feel of decadence/apocalypse

    So-so:
    - it's just dialogs. No tactical/combat part that would be typical for RPGs but that's what this game is about: talking and navigating huge dialog trees with skill checks
    - text is complex and hard to read which you could call "pretentious" or "refreshing" depending on how you want to look at it. Frankly, it impressed me at first but got me even more bored after a few hours
    - the main character is an alcoholic with weak health. I guess that's interesting to try out in a game for once. However, since I don't drink or smoke IRL, I can't really empathize with that. I have zero interest in problems of alcoholics and would prefer if this game had no references to substance abuse at all, of if that topic was used in NPCs, not the main character.
    - the whole topic of a police investigation: if it's your cup of tea, you will like it, but I was bored to death after the scene with the hanging corpse (basically, where I dropped the game). Why would I be interested in investigating a crime of which the character learnt just recently and isn't even fully sure he's a cop? I would't want to be a cop IRL, I don't respect the police (in fact, even dislike it quite a lot).. i couldn't care less why some body is hanging there and what political tensions exist between some fictional organizations..

    Bad:
    - nothing really

    In short, I share the sentiments which critiques have about this game: that it's unique and a milestone in games. However, personally, it's not what I would enjoy for more than an hour because I'm more of a math person than poetry person. I see why this game is good but sorry, I'm not the type for it. Definitely check it out if you are writer/poet/journalist with a drinking problem!
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  42. Jan 15, 2020
    5
    One of those games that can change your life . The repetition of talking to your "inner selves" takes place in real life after a while. The work that has been done in the dialogue trees is excellent. Adventure - rpg in its finest and in its darkest . The graphics suck tho.. but who cares !
  43. Jan 11, 2020
    8
    This is a great game, but I feel like people overlook some serious flaws. It suffers some pacing issues, a staggering amount of typos (some in the first five minutes of the game) and is horribly optimized. Playing Disco Elysium for 45 minutes (mostly reading text) makes my GTX 2070 fans run at 100%. A another minor issue is the game can't seem to decide to open at full screen or windowed.This is a great game, but I feel like people overlook some serious flaws. It suffers some pacing issues, a staggering amount of typos (some in the first five minutes of the game) and is horribly optimized. Playing Disco Elysium for 45 minutes (mostly reading text) makes my GTX 2070 fans run at 100%. A another minor issue is the game can't seem to decide to open at full screen or windowed. It's 50/50 on my system.

    Overall this a beautiful, dark, well written chose your own adventure book. It's not perfect though.
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  44. Jan 11, 2020
    4
    Boring, pretentious and overrated adventure type of game with few rpg elements. Text, text, text and more text to read combined with a weird plot and without any action at all (and it's supposed to be a detective noir "sigh") You just walk around and talk to random NPCs all the time that's mostly about it. I got bored after playing 5 hours and try reading column of texts it's 2019-2020 addBoring, pretentious and overrated adventure type of game with few rpg elements. Text, text, text and more text to read combined with a weird plot and without any action at all (and it's supposed to be a detective noir "sigh") You just walk around and talk to random NPCs all the time that's mostly about it. I got bored after playing 5 hours and try reading column of texts it's 2019-2020 add some more voice acting instead of adding huge text piles in my screen if i wanted to read a book i wouldn't play games. The gameplay is monotonous the texts are horrible long and the plot is not really interesting to keep playing. I don't understand the high scores Expand
  45. Jan 10, 2020
    9
    In this review I will list the Pros and Cons of this game and also write down my opinion in a summary. But before I do that let me say this- the game is very political and also 95% of the content in this game depends on reading. Dialogues, Encounters, Thoughts, the World around you, everything pretty much is written down and there are very few cut-scenes. So if you aren´t in either ofIn this review I will list the Pros and Cons of this game and also write down my opinion in a summary. But before I do that let me say this- the game is very political and also 95% of the content in this game depends on reading. Dialogues, Encounters, Thoughts, the World around you, everything pretty much is written down and there are very few cut-scenes. So if you aren´t in either of those things this is probably not the game for you.

    Lets start with the Pros:

    -interesting characters
    -dialogues are extremely satisfying
    -many dialogue options
    -lots of skills to level
    -sounds are amazing
    -detailed explanation of surroundings, thoughts etc.
    -cool outfit options
    -absorbing main-story
    -gripping political breeze

    And the Cons:

    -checks which are necessary to progress get you stuck sometimes
    -no open world and small map
    -sci-fi aspects that seem kind of weird in this setting

    Summary:

    In general this is a very good game and i enjoyed my time absolutely playing this game. Never ever have I played a game before, with so many fascinating dialogue options. The characters (especially your partner) are entertaining (some in a positive-some in a negative way) and you really want to get to know every one of them. There is also a wide range of skills, with which you can form your own type of main-protoganist the way you want him to be (with some restrictions, because of the white/red-check system). These can be quiet annoying if you are unlucky. At two points in the game I talked to every NPC and exhausted all the dialogue-options without a possibility of making progress anymore, which really sucked and I am not the only one with this problem, it occurred for quite a lot of people. So my tip is to save a lot! Pretty much before every white/red-check i saved the game for the possibility to achieve it if failed before. This will save you tons of time and you wont have to load older save-files to continue with the story. Side quests offer a wide range of variety and I enjoyed doing them as well. The whole game feels like a book, with options to influence the story really. Art-Style is beautiful and the world seems alive, even tho there isn´t a lot of movement (sound is absolutely stunning). The story has it´s twists and plots, it´s conclusive and I really didn´t expect the end. Some people will like it, some wont. Me, for my part enjoyed it. That said the game is a great experience and brings in some fresh air of entertainment in the RPG-Scene, totally recommend it!

    8.5/10
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  46. Jan 7, 2020
    6
    A weird, fresh and also very original experience, but also unnerving, irritating and sometimes buggy experience.

    I knew when i started playing this game it relied heavily on text-based dialogue (inner, or with other persons) but that turned out to be too much for me (and i do love a good story in games), it's just too much senseless information, especially with all the orbs floating
    A weird, fresh and also very original experience, but also unnerving, irritating and sometimes buggy experience.

    I knew when i started playing this game it relied heavily on text-based dialogue (inner, or with other persons) but that turned out to be too much for me (and i do love a good story in games), it's just too much senseless information, especially with all the orbs floating around whose purpose it seems to be to give you a little more of background information, but 99% of the time turned out to be completely meaningless.

    What also doesn't help is the feeling of being completely overwhelmed with tasks in the first day of playtrough, trying to get a grip on the nonsensical mix-mush of cobbled together european languages (i'm an european btw), the absurdness of it all, trying to make head or tails out of what the game is trying to convey, and finding out that in the end it's all nonsense without a real meaning behind it.

    And i'm not even mentioning the political commentary that's awkwardly suggestive, but surely gets irritating and nonsensical along the way.

    Also buggy, after months of release still no fix for simple things like:

    - Windowed/fullscreen settings not working.
    - Tasks on map which still appear even when you can't finish them any more because, for example, the object is gone.
    - Continuously irritating notification on inventory, whilst nothing has changed.
    - Getting stuck walking, and have to exit/reload the game.

    Absolutely not worthy of doing another playtrough with a different character imho.
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  47. Jan 4, 2020
    0
    Its a $10 pick your own adventure book that trying to be a $50+ video game. This game is painful for me to play. I am 10 hours in and I hate my character, I hate every boring character that has been introduced to me, I hate the environment and I hate my subconsciousness (which is a huge part of this game). I can't believe I got suckered into buying this game. You basically go aroundIts a $10 pick your own adventure book that trying to be a $50+ video game. This game is painful for me to play. I am 10 hours in and I hate my character, I hate every boring character that has been introduced to me, I hate the environment and I hate my subconsciousness (which is a huge part of this game). I can't believe I got suckered into buying this game. You basically go around doing fetch quests but instead of just getting what you need and progressing the story you have to do a bunch of monologue with yourself, and repeated interaction with every character. I just can't waste any more time with this game. Simply the most over-hyped garbage I have played since Undertale! Expand
  48. Jan 2, 2020
    10
    Amazing game. It combines RPG elements with text based gaming to create a masterpiece. Every decision can have a consequence - this game slows you to do a LOT in terms of character build and the decisions you make.
  49. Dec 31, 2019
    8
    It's an interesting and very catchy game. I did not expect so much depth to the world and its background story. At times I found it too confusing, but the game does not force you to dwell on every bit of info you receive. Quite the contrary, there are multiple ways of playing the game, and this brings an uniqueness to your approach. Of course, there are some scripted events, but that doesIt's an interesting and very catchy game. I did not expect so much depth to the world and its background story. At times I found it too confusing, but the game does not force you to dwell on every bit of info you receive. Quite the contrary, there are multiple ways of playing the game, and this brings an uniqueness to your approach. Of course, there are some scripted events, but that does not take from the game's personality, not in my opinion. Personally, I did not go for a second play-through, but that does not mean the experience was boring. In fact, I would recommend this game to all players who enjoy a good story and have the patience undergo solving crime cases. Hopefully, these types of game will again take off in popularity and we will see some sort of revival in the industry, be it through a sequel or other variants. Expand
  50. Dec 30, 2019
    10
    This is one of the rarest and best examples of how to create an RPG.The characters and the dynamic that they have with the world is incredibly well done and every little thing is connected to everything else in a grand scale.The relationships between Harry and Kim is one of the most polished things i have seen in a game in my entire life.The world is masterfully build to every littleThis is one of the rarest and best examples of how to create an RPG.The characters and the dynamic that they have with the world is incredibly well done and every little thing is connected to everything else in a grand scale.The relationships between Harry and Kim is one of the most polished things i have seen in a game in my entire life.The world is masterfully build to every little detail and its amazing how even your smallest choices change it.The story is incredibly well done even though some people really dislike the sudden ending making them feel a little empty and unsatisfied with it.I can understand that but there are a tons of theories on the internet of what exactly is happening to the world and the character that you play as.I have my own theory and the ending for me really connects with my theory making me feel very satisfied with it.The game play is mostly walking and talking with people but it was done so good that i was entertained every single time even if i was talking about trivial and useless things with the characters or was interacting with the world.There are a lot of funny parts and parts that fill you up with melancholy making the game feel like an amazing theatrical performance leaving you with sadness but also hope for the future.I love the customization that you can have on your character and all the different ways you can build him to interact with the world.The soundtrack is also amazing and i would always remember the Smallest Church in Saint-Saens.The only issue i sometimes faced was the item inventory UI which had some bugs and it made it hard to read some of the item descriptions.And sometimes the thoughts not giving the effect they were supposed to give.This is a great example of a game with an amazing story and characters and it should be used to teach other developers how to make good RPG mechanics and how to input them.Definitely one of the BEST GAMES OF THIS CENTURY.No wonder it got 4 award's Expand
  51. Dec 30, 2019
    10
    The quality of writing here is miraculous. This game lets you be a part of a story rather than task you with meaningless repetitive challenges.
    Invest your focus and attention into Disco Elysium - it will reward you with a compelling noir detective plot in a wacky world torn by conflicting ideologies and painful history.
  52. Dec 29, 2019
    2
    I am sorry but I really do not understand why this game gets such a high score.

    I would give 9 or 10 out of 10 if this was supposed to be a Novel. But as a game, 2 is the maximum I would give. It is so boring and slow, even though u accept the fact that everything should be solved by a dialogue, the dialogue itself (alot of them) are not story related or even related to the
    I am sorry but I really do not understand why this game gets such a high score.

    I would give 9 or 10 out of 10 if this was supposed to be a Novel.

    But as a game, 2 is the maximum I would give.

    It is so boring and slow, even though u accept the fact that everything should be solved by a dialogue, the dialogue itself (alot of them) are not story related or even related to the situation at all sometimes.

    If u want choices in a game, I'd rather play Detroit become human. If u want some RPG + dialogue choices, I'd rather play The Outer Worlds.

    This is a very good Novel but not a Game.
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  53. Dec 29, 2019
    3
    wish there was more here
    this just does not feel like a game, and feels like something that might cost $7-15 not 40
    I was pretty excited to try this I loved RPGs like divinity and torment. For the first 20 minutes of DE I did feel the immersion and felt hopeful about what was coming next. It wasn't until I started to understand the games mechanics a little bit more that I realized
    wish there was more here
    this just does not feel like a game, and feels like something that might cost $7-15 not 40

    I was pretty excited to try this I loved RPGs like divinity and torment.
    For the first 20 minutes of DE I did feel the immersion and felt hopeful about what was coming next.

    It wasn't until I started to understand the games mechanics a little bit more that I realized how shallow of a game it actually is.

    You start off with 8 skill points that you can allocate that boost about 6 or 7 skills per point. You can be a strong character, a sensitive character, a smart character, or a sneaky? character. Throughout the game you'll level up and you can use more points, but as far as I can tell the only stat that really matters is the strength, because if you only allocate the 1 default strength your character has 1 health and will just die randomly when talking to people.

    Certain dialogue options in the game will 'check' the players skill to make sure you have enough to do certain things. Usually the cooler things require a check and there's an avg of 1 check per new person you meet.

    Since the game is split up into 4 trees str int etc. Only 1/4th the time are you gonna have the required skill to pass the check 100%. And you might think ok thats cool, but passing or not passing a check doesn't seem to matter at all. When I first started the game I played as the sensitive character and I passed a check to flirt with a woman in the start, but in the end she walks into the room and nothing more happens. Then when I played the strong character I failed the check -> she went into the room same exact outcome. As the strong character you can punch the kid Cuno in the face when he is mouthing off to you. But after that his dialogue is the same as if you played the intelligent character and didn't punch him.

    So I guess the gameplay of this is building your character to pass checks so you don't lose 1 health here 1 health there. Or so you can see more interesting dialogue. The problem is it just doesn't feel rewarding at all. Not to mention the characters are voiced for their first few lines of text its not til you reach the check that they stop being voice acted and you just have to read from then on. You seem to win the game by avoiding as many 'checks' as possible and choosing the safest route that wont cause you to lose health and die. So in a way the game rewards you for playing it in the most tedious way possible. If you are a stealthy character you can use your hand eye coordination to shoot down the corpse you are investigating, however if you fail this check or you are just not the stealth character there is a whole bunch of **** you have to do before you can bring the corpse down and preform an autopsy. If you are a strong character you can punch out a giant bodyguard thats blocking a path, but if you fail that check he kills you, or hurts you and you have to find a different way around. About 3/4 of the time you are playing you will wish you were a different type of character so you could pass the check that leads to the simplest resolution.

    If you're reading this and thinking ok this sounds kind of interesting please realize this is the only interesting part about the game, the rest of the game (like 95% of it) is just filler dialogue that has nothing to do with your stats or checks. It's just a visual novel pretty much. You can level up your stats really high. You might look at a stat like 'suggestion' that tells you it decides how much you can flirt with people and manipulate them and think OK i will level this up really high then my character will be able to flirt with everyone. NO. it doesn't make a difference to the game play at all. You will just have a 97% chance to flirt successfully with the one or two characters you can flirt with rather than 72% chance to flirt successfully.

    I don't want to say the game is horrible but I would not recommend it to anyone. I feel it's so much more likely for the average person to be completely bored by this game than it is for anyone to enjoy it. This is just not a game for your average person on STEAM. It's like a choose your own adventure book. If you can look past the fact that none of your choices or stats really make a difference in the end, and just read the book and enjoy the story then maybe this is something you can consider buying. For normal people that want to play something fun this is too much money for something you'll probably hate.
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  54. Dec 25, 2019
    10
    Probably the true spiritual successor to Planescape: Torment. 10/10, will play as Hobocop next time.
  55. Dec 21, 2019
    10
    I created an account only to review this game.
    I'm 23 and this is one of the best RPGs I ever played.
  56. Dec 20, 2019
    10
    This game deserves all the praise and all the awards. There is a reason why it won best narrative and best independent game of 2019. Many people love this game and would recommend it. Just give it a try
  57. Dec 18, 2019
    10
    This game is almost perfect on its premises. Of course you will see some bad reviews once and a while, but it's just a matter of taste. Like classic movies, even being overwhelmingly acclaimed, some people won't enjoy.
  58. Dec 18, 2019
    10
    One of the stronger RPGs of recent years, impressive writing and depth, engaging world and characters
    If you need the story and the world - just go and play, no questions asked, just do it

    Although it is important to note that the ending felt lacking and unimpactful for me personally
  59. Dec 16, 2019
    10
    To me, this is the perfect game.

    Brilliantly written, with wonderful, interesting, and sympathetic characters, a twisting and utterly unexpected plot line, an amazing, beautiful world, and a heaping of art and philosophy. It's been quite some time since any piece of art (let alone a game) has moved me this much, and I remember no other game that has made me laugh as much. This is my
    To me, this is the perfect game.

    Brilliantly written, with wonderful, interesting, and sympathetic characters, a twisting and utterly unexpected plot line, an amazing, beautiful world, and a heaping of art and philosophy.
    It's been quite some time since any piece of art (let alone a game) has moved me this much, and I remember no other game that has made me laugh as much.

    This is my new all-time favorite game, and I'll also happily list it as one of my favorite novels (why not) and pieces of art in general.
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  60. Dec 15, 2019
    4
    Wow, just another Tides of numenera but with some modern political references.
  61. Dec 13, 2019
    0
    Communist propaganda !!! Everywhere Communism has passed has left a trail of death, it is already over 100 MILLION in a century, more than all the natural disasters added to the plagues planet Earth has witnessed in its history.
  62. Dec 12, 2019
    9
    que se puede decir , un juego excepcional con buena historia y manejo de la misma
  63. Dec 8, 2019
    10
    Great writing, great worldbuilding. Finished this in 3 days. Easily my game of the year 2019.
  64. Dec 6, 2019
    10
    Very interesting and very unique game. The story is stereotypically, but plays out uniquely enough that it doesn't even feel cliche.
  65. Dec 4, 2019
    9
    An RPG I never knew I needed, definitely a new standard for the genre, a must play for rpg fans out there
  66. Dec 3, 2019
    0
    Here's a true explanation of this game for people who wants facts, and not circlejerks from those who are easily bamboozled.
    Disco Elysium has had an enormous amount of work put into the UI, skill design and other secondary mechanics, however. When it comes to the writing, gameplay and especially player choice - primary mechanics to say the least. Are severely lacking to the point of it
    Here's a true explanation of this game for people who wants facts, and not circlejerks from those who are easily bamboozled.
    Disco Elysium has had an enormous amount of work put into the UI, skill design and other secondary mechanics, however. When it comes to the writing, gameplay and especially player choice - primary mechanics to say the least. Are severely lacking to the point of it still being an early access title.

    Most people who first play the game are easily entranced by the large amount of "player choice", but if one actually explores these options in new playthroughs, or through save reloads - find a sort of Bioware-esc effect, where nothing really changes nor matters between the choices, and nomatter what you pick, you'll be corralled to the same end option. I'll also note that after about one hour of playing, the quality of gameplay, through all aspects, drop off a cliff.

    To slightly reiterate, you are forced to play the game through a certain skillset and belief system. With the creators of said game hoping everyone just plays an average "across the board" style of character with a left-leaning mindset . If you deviate from this, the story/plotline tends to "break" as these choices were not meant to be picked, and if you pick them, whether by experimentation, or a whacky skill combination - you will either be shamed by an omnipotent line-of-text, for your 'wrong" choices. Or the game comes to a halt and you're thrown some cheap, quickly thrown together explanation as to why your choice doesn't work, or was halted beyond your control, and once again you're corralled into the same quest ending, Mass Effect 3 players will be getting PSTD flashbacks........ On a side note. The dialogue has as distinct tinge of been written by a 20 year old edgy communist, who releases a smirk everytime he can inject his politics into the game.

    So is the game worth buying? Absolutely not. However if you pirate it, or get it on a massive sale. It would provide some solid illusory entertainment for about three hours or so. Depending on your level of perception.'
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  67. Dec 2, 2019
    10
    Best game I’ve experienced in recent history. It’ goes without saying that this is a must buy—especially anyone who is, or has been, looking back on their lives with a sense of dread or regret. This game Is not afraid to tackle the big and sometimes uncomfortable questions and situation that we sometimes have to fact I Miya lives, whether that be addiction, racism, ultra-capitalism, orBest game I’ve experienced in recent history. It’ goes without saying that this is a must buy—especially anyone who is, or has been, looking back on their lives with a sense of dread or regret. This game Is not afraid to tackle the big and sometimes uncomfortable questions and situation that we sometimes have to fact I Miya lives, whether that be addiction, racism, ultra-capitalism, or just good ol’ existential dread.

    Having a soul crushing task ahead of you as you open your eyes for true first time might sound daunting at first but the ingenious conversation system and written style keeps the ship from ever taking in so much water that your proverbial ship risks capsizing. Keep at in and by the end of the game you should be able to have a safe port to pull into and maybe, just maybe be less of yourself going forward. However, the choice will, naturally, always be yours seeing as this is a role playing game in its truest form.

    Disco Elysian is my GOTY and if you pick it up, I’m sure it’ll be yours too.
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  68. Dec 1, 2019
    10
    My GOTY no contest. Narration is top of the line, art direction is sick, dialogue can't just be more well written. What a pleasure to play a non combat RPG. Identification to the main protagonist is immediate and oh the feels... Might play it multiple times to check different play styles :D
  69. Dec 1, 2019
    5
    Spelling mistakes and grammar errors galore in this choose your own adventure book turned into a isometric RPG.
    My graphics card (a respectable RX480-8GB sounds like it would like to break the sound barrier whilst playing due to a poorly optimized game.
    I have come across two soft-locks myself and one can be quite serious and lose plenty of progress if you aren't prepared, in a game which
    Spelling mistakes and grammar errors galore in this choose your own adventure book turned into a isometric RPG.
    My graphics card (a respectable RX480-8GB sounds like it would like to break the sound barrier whilst playing due to a poorly optimized game.
    I have come across two soft-locks myself and one can be quite serious and lose plenty of progress if you aren't prepared, in a game which is supposed to be "play whichever way you want"
    The story is good, but it reads more like a choose your own adventure book than a video game. Maybe the games "journalists" were wowed by something that has been around since Zork or The Hobbit. The only difference is a better user interface, which still crashes out occasionally.

    I'll give it 5/10 it's an overrated game but in no means terrible. Millennial children simply need to learn that grown ups were doing this with a computer and a pencil and paper long before they were born.
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  70. Dec 1, 2019
    10
    Without a doubt, not just this year, but one of the best RPG of the decade. This is an RPG in its purest form, with skill checks that form your character and the world around you. Although the game does not contain combat in a traditional sense, your physical abilities do matter , they open possibilities to progress forward in the story or just simply solve a puzzle in a very differentWithout a doubt, not just this year, but one of the best RPG of the decade. This is an RPG in its purest form, with skill checks that form your character and the world around you. Although the game does not contain combat in a traditional sense, your physical abilities do matter , they open possibilities to progress forward in the story or just simply solve a puzzle in a very different way. But the game does not punish you for failing, it rewards you with options which were not available until that point. Your skill literally talk to you, trying to persuade you, making you doubt your thinking. also, the game is very philosophical, funny, and sometimes very heartbreaking.

    Yes, you have to read a LOT, it is an integral part of the game, but in a way that in never gets old. It is a game for adults. Its a game for those who want something meaningful, something that you don't get from other games nowadays.

    Others may find it boring, they want combat encounters, those who want a more traditional game. They will say it is a visual novel or an adventure game. The former is BS of course. It is masterpiece, it is not a simple toy.
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  71. Nov 30, 2019
    8
    One of the more unique games of the year, Disco Elysium sets out to tell a story and nothing but. Don't expect exciting gameplay. You'll have the same sort of fun with this game as you might have when reading a good book. The writing fits the tone. It's fluffy and matter of fact, sort of reads like a **** stretched over a whole game. Especially your dialogue, expect to be spouting off likeOne of the more unique games of the year, Disco Elysium sets out to tell a story and nothing but. Don't expect exciting gameplay. You'll have the same sort of fun with this game as you might have when reading a good book. The writing fits the tone. It's fluffy and matter of fact, sort of reads like a **** stretched over a whole game. Especially your dialogue, expect to be spouting off like a complete dumbass. There's also the mechanic where you can talk your skills themselves, but that's a whole other beast. The way they read depends on the skill. You might be stuck with a communist revolutionary or a vain celebrity as your little brain buddy. If you're unlucky you'll constantly get interrupted by a massive racist. The detective segments are my favourite bits though, working with your partner and your bickering skills to deduce what the hell happened. If you're looking for an RPG with exciting gameplay, give this one a miss and try The Outer Worlds, it tackles similar themes in a more light-hearted fashion, but if you're willing to stick it out a bit, you'll probably have a lot of fun with this game. Expand
  72. Nov 29, 2019
    10
    The best RPG I have ever played, and I've played RPGs for over 2 decades. Highly recommend this game.
  73. Nov 24, 2019
    9
    A magnificent game. The only mistake is that sometimes looks like you're not making considerable progress despite playing hours and hours. When I finished, I could only think that the game universe is unique and original, even today, where originality is rare. The political game, the satirization of our organizations and systems, the loneliness as a joke of oneself, are all a greatA magnificent game. The only mistake is that sometimes looks like you're not making considerable progress despite playing hours and hours. When I finished, I could only think that the game universe is unique and original, even today, where originality is rare. The political game, the satirization of our organizations and systems, the loneliness as a joke of oneself, are all a great backdrop to an interesting story with striking characters. Expand
  74. Nov 21, 2019
    10
    This game shot from "what the heck is this and why should I care?" to "This is one of the best examples of games as art" within an hour. It went from there to "This is one of my favorite games ever," within 10.
    A true triumph of risks, polish, and care, that in my opinion stands as one of the best of the decade.
    That said, it's not for everyone. Its dialog can be a bit abstract, and
    This game shot from "what the heck is this and why should I care?" to "This is one of the best examples of games as art" within an hour. It went from there to "This is one of my favorite games ever," within 10.
    A true triumph of risks, polish, and care, that in my opinion stands as one of the best of the decade.
    That said, it's not for everyone. Its dialog can be a bit abstract, and there's certainly a LOT of reading. I can see why there are people who wouldn't like it.
    I just really, really do.
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  75. Nov 21, 2019
    10
    Bukowski meets Dirk Gently, not only theme-wise but also on the level of writing. Oh, and they also invented a completely interpretation of RPG-skill-system, but hey, why not, while you are at it doing completely new things and have invented a fresh world from scratch anyway, complete with its own lore/history?
    Absolutely, utterly brilliant and game of the year for me.
    Caveat: You will
    Bukowski meets Dirk Gently, not only theme-wise but also on the level of writing. Oh, and they also invented a completely interpretation of RPG-skill-system, but hey, why not, while you are at it doing completely new things and have invented a fresh world from scratch anyway, complete with its own lore/history?
    Absolutely, utterly brilliant and game of the year for me.

    Caveat: You will read. A lot. If you do not like reading or are bad at it, this might not be for you.
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  76. Nov 19, 2019
    0
    Disco Elysium is just another piece of postmodern art. I understand why boomers give it 10/10, it's called a "duckling syndrome". They see something like Planscape torment and think that it's an excellent game. But they are wrong. DE is nothing. Just accept it.
  77. Nov 18, 2019
    7
    I'll keep the review relatively short. I'd best summarize Disco Elysium as a unique RPG slow burn. You play as a protagonist/antagonist detective in an alternate universe set in the 50s. The choices you make truly determine the outcome of the endgame. In that sense, this is one of those games where your choices do matter. That being said, this game is slow paced, and can be long-winded.I'll keep the review relatively short. I'd best summarize Disco Elysium as a unique RPG slow burn. You play as a protagonist/antagonist detective in an alternate universe set in the 50s. The choices you make truly determine the outcome of the endgame. In that sense, this is one of those games where your choices do matter. That being said, this game is slow paced, and can be long-winded. Overall, a solid game with a lot of replayability if you're wanting to see how different choices play out.

    Pros:
    + Nice voice acting
    + Interesting plot and nicely fleshed out world, super outside-the-box even for a detective game
    + Leveling system encourages different styles of play
    + Psychological thriller-type gameplay in a sense -- different aspects of your being battle it out to influence your player choices.

    Cons
    - Sometimes there is simply too much reading
    - Scarce action, almost non-existent as far as combat goes
    - Slow-paced running throughout the game world, which can get tedious
    - Graphics will not blow anybody away (not too much of a con for this type of game)

    Overall, a solid RPG. Unique and worth multiple play throughs for the most part.
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  78. Nov 17, 2019
    9
    Disco Elysium is probably the most ambitious deep dive into the human psyche, and the human condition, that I've ever witnessed in a videogame. It's a real writing tour de force and undoubtedly a game which will be remembered and talked about for years and years to come.

    If you like games with hard hitting writing such as Pillars of Eternity, The Talos Principle, Planescape: Torment or
    Disco Elysium is probably the most ambitious deep dive into the human psyche, and the human condition, that I've ever witnessed in a videogame. It's a real writing tour de force and undoubtedly a game which will be remembered and talked about for years and years to come.

    If you like games with hard hitting writing such as Pillars of Eternity, The Talos Principle, Planescape: Torment or Fallout 1 and 2 this game should definitely appeal to you. I will also give big props to the art, artstyle and music which are an easy 10/10 in my book. Pretty original and creative stuff and in combination with the writing it really helps elevate the game and give it a unique feel.

    I will however leave out the perfect 10/10 for a couple of things:

    * The Dice Roll Skill Check really messes up your playthrough sometimes, if you're a bit of competitionist (like me) completing the game without save scumming at a couple of encounters is nearly unavoidable. The alternative, if you don't want to save scum even a little bit, is to probably have to do 3-5 playthroughs to see everything. And some people probably like that but I just don't have time for it. I understand why the skill checks are there but it wasn't a mechanic I was overly fond of since they sometimes broke the immersion a bit.

    * The conclusion of the game ended up going in a tangent pretty unrelated to what came before, maybe they were pressed for time toward the end but in my mind this isn't overly good writing. Maybe real life is like this but fiction typically flows better when what comes next is more strongly connected to what came before. It's maybe not quite deus ex machina stuff but it's close. That's about all I can say without getting too spoilery.

    * The final conclusion of the game could have given more closure. Some cutscenes for our choices would have made for a fitting end to our journey. You could also have listed our achievements with some pictures (hobocop, superstar cop, recovering alcoholic etc). Maybe they were pressed for time but if there is a special edition they should definitely do this.

    * The game is a smorgasbord of philosophical and psychological ideas, if there is one area it stumbles a bit it might however be in the leftist vs ultra-liberal debate which isn't very nuanced. You're quite often asked to take a stand on socioeconomic ideas and the choices often boil down to 1) I'm a dyed in the wool proletarian 2) Ultra-liberalism shall concur all 3) I don't like to take such strong stances so therefore I must be a moralist.... Now, if they had left this part of the discussion out I'm not sure that many of us would have been the wiser. But since it's in there I think many of us would have appreciated a more nuanced debate.

    Don't let that perturb you though, as I said this game is in my mind already a very memorable masterpiece and an instant classic. If you like old school RPG's, text driven games, adventure games, philosophical games, noir games etc then Disco Elysium should be at the very top of your short list.
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  79. Nov 14, 2019
    0
    Boring! The game had so much to hope for. But it didn't live up to expectations. i didn't want an reading sim.
  80. Nov 13, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game got me hooked right at the start - we get a typical Torment-like opening only to discover it's just the biggest of hangovers ever. The game reminds me of Torment:Tides of Numenera in many ways. It's hugely reliant on skill checks, the story is also gloomy and there is this deppresing vibe around it.
    The gameplay is wonderful - no meaningless fights, just exploration, and detective work. Mechanics are harmonizing with the storyline. It's a throwback to point'n'click detective games, but employs a lot of RPG spice to it - which blends together so well.
    It only makes it more amazing when you realize, it's the debut of ZA/UM, good luck with the future games, either it's a sequel or a totally new IP.
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  81. Nov 12, 2019
    10
    Disco Elysium is the most flawed masterpiece I ever played but dear gods, isn't it a masterpiece nevertheless.

    It's one of the best written, most touching and beautiful games I ever played. Its' excellent dialogue, razor-sharp writing, astonishingly well constructed setting, serious themes (politics, culture, philosophy, art, violence and power projection, imperialism, nationalism,
    Disco Elysium is the most flawed masterpiece I ever played but dear gods, isn't it a masterpiece nevertheless.

    It's one of the best written, most touching and beautiful games I ever played. Its' excellent dialogue, razor-sharp writing, astonishingly well constructed setting, serious themes (politics, culture, philosophy, art, violence and power projection, imperialism, nationalism, class struggle, disco music) and its' ability to treat the player as an intelligent, mature person who knows who Karl Marx was and why was he so funny are a sight to behold.

    I never thought I would see such sophisticated tone in a video game: At surface level it's absurd and grotesque, but, on a closer inspection, intelligent and reflective, full of critical, witty nostalgia and sorrowful reverie. All of it is perfectly accented by the wonderful soundtrack and excellent art design.

    Unfortunately, the longer you play the more you see the game is bursting under its' own weight. At the end of it all, it's both too big (mechanically and conceptualy) and too small - Including the ending which comes out of nowhere in a point that I could have sworn was the 2/3rds of the story. Too many gameplay mechanics are not fully thought out, not playtested enough, you can feel the game is missing a lot (especially when it comes to the duration of the main story as well as the amount of side content). At the same time, some other gameplay elements are almost absurdly blown out of proportion despite not adding much to the experience, and sometimes even detracting from it.

    And yet, if you love good RPGs, drop everything you're doing and play this game NOW. Despite its' flaws, it flatout blows all the other post apocalyptic-fantasy-retro-crap-pseudo-RPGs out of the water. Still, I feel the true magnum opus of this studio will be the sequel to this game, if (or rather: "when") it releases.

    Because when Disco Elysium is good, it's astounding. Unfortunately, it can't manage to be astounding all of the time. Still, a 10 despite the flaws because it's a transformative tite for the entire genre, you don't get those often.

    PS. VAGUE SPOILER ALERT, but I give the game bonus points for featuring a murder mystery where the perpetrator turns out to be communism itself. Absolutely delightful twist, it's a shame the game literally ends on the next screen without giving the plot any sort of meaningful resolution.
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  82. Nov 11, 2019
    8
    This game is getting mixed reviews mostly because of the way it approaches ideologies. And this, indeed, is its absolutely worst aspect. Most characters are categorized by their "ideology", and said ideologies lack any nuance. You're either a hardcore bolshevik, a brick-headed fascist, soulless capitalist, or something along these lines. This aspect of the game can easily break immersionThis game is getting mixed reviews mostly because of the way it approaches ideologies. And this, indeed, is its absolutely worst aspect. Most characters are categorized by their "ideology", and said ideologies lack any nuance. You're either a hardcore bolshevik, a brick-headed fascist, soulless capitalist, or something along these lines. This aspect of the game can easily break immersion and reminds you that you're not solving a real crime. People are never so simple.

    It's also worth mentioning that, sometimes, the game can be a little too crazy or assign insane difficulty to very easy tasks. In many cases, also, you're not allowed to do the most obvious thing. Instead, you're being sent on a wild goose chase.

    This being said, the game endears you to itself with its art style from the first moment. Its (rare!) voice acting is great, graphics are enthralling, and even such tiny things as pictures used for stats, are generally mesmerizing. Writing is stellar, despite some ham-fisted approach to ideology. But most importantly, your game really depends on who your character is. To the point I've never seen in any game before.

    Character creation in Disco Elysium is unique. You don't play a warrior or a rogue; you're a cop and a cop is his mind, his charm, his physique and his motorics. All these aspects decide whether you can tell if someone is lying to you, how you respond under pressure, whether you understand what it is being a cop, or how much you can rely on your gut feelings. If you're a guy who can spot a lot, you're most likely not very good at reading intentions, even though you may notice blood-shot eyes. But it's not as simple as that. If your perception is too good, you may focus on a childhood scar of your interlocutor, completely forgetting about your case for two days. Middle road gets you nowhere but when you specialize, you may easily lose yourself. Not to mention that if you're not composed enough, swaying hips of a gal can be more than enough to make it impossible for you to think straight.

    What hooked me into this game is that character choices do matter. There's plenty of moments when you can perform a perfect investigation and end up with completely bogus results because you weren't able to recognize some cultural motif and your empathy towards a child led you astray. In other cases, you need to get something done and agree to a rotten compromise, just to learn that there were other ways of accomplishing things. Most tasks are interesting, the main story has its twists, and there are also quite a few things intentionally designed to waste your time.

    The game deserves stellar note of 9/10. Alas, it's not perfect mechanics-wise. I could use "always run" mode, it would be nice to manage your equipment, fewer loading screens would be welcome, proper multicore optimization is a must in 2019 and so on. These are all rather minor things. All the same, -1 for limited quality of life.

    All in all, it's a must-play for fans of the RPG genre who don't mind reading a lot. If you don't enjoy reading, this game is simply not for you. No harm in that. To those, who are afraid that Disco Elysium is filled with useless narrative like the latest Planescape Torment, don't worry. Every line of test is both well written and interesting.
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  83. Nov 11, 2019
    10
    Did you ever dream of being a hobo and a cop? Or to feel how it is to suffer from psychological disorders that can be used as skills? What would happen to you if the love of your life abandoned you at the vulnerable age of forty? Learn how your words and actions lead to consequences for both you and the people around you. This game will make you a better person. Bona-fide art.
  84. Nov 11, 2019
    10
    Masterpiece! And one of the best RPG-games for the last 10 years.
    Yes, you can't perform a role play for chaotic-neutral dwarf, who was raised in the elf-circus in an ancient forest. But still, there are plenty of ways to entertain yourself as a police detective with heavy hangover.
  85. Nov 10, 2019
    1
    It's the self destructive, ostentatious, circumlocutory, nihilistic, preachy politicized RPG Reddit has been praying for UwU.

    I often find the same lot who love games like this looking down on Anime-y type games, so lets be clear on one thing: this game is just as much fan-service for those nervous about whether their liberal arts degree in Russian lit was good financial decision as is
    It's the self destructive, ostentatious, circumlocutory, nihilistic, preachy politicized RPG Reddit has been praying for UwU.

    I often find the same lot who love games like this looking down on Anime-y type games, so lets be clear on one thing: this game is just as much fan-service for those nervous about whether their liberal arts degree in Russian lit was good financial decision as is some harem anime game.

    Lets also be clear on point 2: giving you the option to whole hardheartedly agree with the devs politics or simply remain silent on political issues is not "choice", that is the same "choice" given to all those in authoritarian regimes, wholehearted agreement or silence.

    I applaud the devs for taking a position on something instead of having some watered down "taking over the world is widely regarded as a bad move" message. But there is such a thing as nuance. And this had all the political nuance of COD's "FREEEEDUMMM!" message on the opposite end of the political spectrum, but run through a thesaurus several times and given over to undergrads who specialize in the art of maximizing word count on their essay requirements.
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  86. Nov 10, 2019
    9
    A very strange journey through the human mind and an interesting spin on the isometric RPG genre. You can be insane and talk to visions or just use stone cold logic all packaged into a detective noir storyline, just don't expect any form of combat. One of my favorites this year.
  87. Nov 10, 2019
    2
    Gibberish writing masquerading as Pseudo-faux avant-garde pontifical erudisms. Not even an RPG, IMO. Its a graphic adventure/puzzle game
  88. Nov 10, 2019
    3
    Understand, this is not an RPG. This is an adventure game, with skill checks. If you like clicking on everything in the world, and reading a *lot* of honestly pretty dry diatribes about race and politics, then this is the game for you.
  89. Nov 10, 2019
    10
    The best rpg of the decade. Thanks for making it and giving us hope. 10/10.
  90. Nov 8, 2019
    10
    Best rpg ever. First game since planescape torment that made such an impression on me
  91. Nov 8, 2019
    0
    boring, pretentious, artsyfartsy, nonsensual indie shill game that getting good reviews based on the fact that its indie game... meh. Visual is boring, story is cliché, gameplay terrible and its scream low budget from all sides... theres a good reason why these low budget indie shill games will never be GOTY nominee
  92. Nov 7, 2019
    10
    Truthfully I'd rate this game a 7 or 8, but the amount of people rating it a 0 with the justification that this text-based, role playing game has too much text means I have to do my part to signal boost something that's actually different in a world where those same people constantly complain about things being the same.
  93. Nov 7, 2019
    10
    One of the most unique RPG's I have ever played. It is very text heavy, but the writing is superb. One of the coolest aspects of the game in my opinion is the dialog that takes place inside your own characters head and how your skills and choices impact that dialog. You really feel like you are playing out a fleshed out character and impacting their development. This isn't a traditionalOne of the most unique RPG's I have ever played. It is very text heavy, but the writing is superb. One of the coolest aspects of the game in my opinion is the dialog that takes place inside your own characters head and how your skills and choices impact that dialog. You really feel like you are playing out a fleshed out character and impacting their development. This isn't a traditional RPG with combat and what not, so don't expect that. However, if you are into mystery/detective games, and old school tabletop/text based RPG's then give this a whirl. You won't be disappointed. Expand
  94. Nov 6, 2019
    4
    I feel bad because so many people love his game - I don't.

    Some Games are loved by critics and players - like Witcher 3. And like Witcher 3 everybody seems to love this game - I don't. Everybody seems to love the tv series "The Wire" - I don't. I find the game ... boring ... and ... to slow ... Characterbuild is so slow that the fire did not start - I also dont like the character
    I feel bad because so many people love his game - I don't.

    Some Games are loved by critics and players - like Witcher 3. And like Witcher 3 everybody seems to love this game - I don't. Everybody seems to love the tv series "The Wire" - I don't.

    I find the game ... boring ... and ... to slow ...
    Characterbuild is so slow that the fire did not start - I also dont like the character - I dont like the partner ... I did not likt the (slowly) unfolding story .... it all felt like stereotypes everywhere

    Walk there - click here - talk there - Walk back - read - I cared less and less about the story and requested a refund after 2 hours playtime.

    Graphics are not my taste.

    Voice acting is awesome.
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  95. Nov 1, 2019
    10
    A very interesting and wonderful CRPG. Reminds me of D&D but the campaign is that of a detective story. The atmosphere and aesthetic of the game gives off a 50s, 60s, 70s, type vibe all rolled into one without being a mess. The choices that are available for you to take on your journey is one of the most extensive I've seen a game go for, which tells that each playthrough can be completelyA very interesting and wonderful CRPG. Reminds me of D&D but the campaign is that of a detective story. The atmosphere and aesthetic of the game gives off a 50s, 60s, 70s, type vibe all rolled into one without being a mess. The choices that are available for you to take on your journey is one of the most extensive I've seen a game go for, which tells that each playthrough can be completely different from the last adding tons of replay value which can be pretty good for an indie game. The story and characters have detailed and well done dialogue making it all fit with the atmosphere taking your attention and keeping it. However the pacing and gameplay may not be for everyone especially those who don't mess with RPGs that much but if your types of games are RPGs in general definitely check this game out. Expand
  96. Nov 1, 2019
    9
    Amazing overall aesthetic, interesting story & characters not a whole lot to hate on to be honest. Pacing and gameplay can definitely put some off to those not used to RPGs in general. But if you like RPGs and games with story and highly detailed dialogue from interesting characters, definitely check this game out.
  97. Nov 1, 2019
    10
    Best RPG and probably best game i ever played. Absolutely fantastic piece of art. I would love to see this type of game and mechanics in low medieval fantasy or D&D type of setting...
  98. Nov 1, 2019
    10
    Best-written RPG since Planescape:T.An absolute classic of our time.You like crpg-s?Play it.Now.
  99. Oct 31, 2019
    2
    Pros: stylish interactive book
    Cons:
    No gamepad support (constant clicking where you need to go).
    Lots of loading screens.
    No fast travel + slow moving speed + constant clicking = uncomfortable gameplay.
  100. Oct 30, 2019
    10
    Disco Elysium is a traditional point and click adventure that borrows RPG elements to create a very unique narrative. The game puts you in the shoes of detective on a case and uses the fusion of skills and dialogue create a very personal experience. At least that's how the game is supposed to be played. Employ some classic tricks and this game could be played very differently.

    The game
    Disco Elysium is a traditional point and click adventure that borrows RPG elements to create a very unique narrative. The game puts you in the shoes of detective on a case and uses the fusion of skills and dialogue create a very personal experience. At least that's how the game is supposed to be played. Employ some classic tricks and this game could be played very differently.

    The game mashes up point and click adventure with role playing game elements that can affect your ability to interact with NPC's or the map. The game goes further to add 24 hour game clock with a day/night cycle. There's also a quest log, and an equipment menu. Sounds like a standard point n click right? I want to touch on the RPG elements first because that will help explain how the story is told in Disco Elysium, and how it stands out from anything I've played in the past.

    From the RPG standpoint, Disco carries itself on a system where your skills affect different dialogue and map actions. Every dialogue action is a roll of the dice and still could fail but this isn't a hard stop, using the classic trick of loading your save will give you another shot trying an action. This is the first break in the fourth wall from how the game is intended to be played. Games like XCOM employ some effort to ensure saves play out the same way to deter this kind of manipulation. In Disco you're free to abuse it.

    There level of your skills are increased or decreased by points in a tree, your clothing, consumed items, and the thought cabinet. The unfamiliar of the group, the thought cabinet, holds thoughts that can affect multiple skills at once. The "thoughts" available to think about need to be unlocked while playing the game and require a hardening phase before they unlock. Its a fairly unique approach to affecting a skill tree that further gives life to the story in this game.

    The game does have a experience system that rewards you for finishing quests, or exhausting dialogue, awarding you a skill point. Players seeking to "max out" skills will want to complete quests which could feel like a chore if you're not engaged in the story of all the NPC's. And the main gist of the story is that you're a detective coming off a bender with some serious amnesia.

    Moving onto the story, Disco Elysium is primarily a story game where it puts you into the driver's seat. Within a fictitious world your amnesia allows you to regain your understanding of the place you wake up in. You can really play this game in a number of ways but it always boils down to a point n click adventure where you're running around, finding items, and reading dialogue. I want to say right away that the dialogue is expertly written. Your character has a wide personality and the options are both funny and serious. There are a lot of genuinely funny interactions and text.

    This game is a lot of reading.

    You begin this adventure without pants and ass up with your face cemented into the ground for support. These first interactions drop you right into Disco's story telling. Dialogue appears in many ways. Skill points not only affect your success in doing actions, but also create new dialogue opportunities. For example having higher intelligence skill stats will grant you additional observational options, or if you gain an addiction a voice will hound you to score some smack. Depending on your skills and actions the game employs a volley of inner dialogues that create a true role playing experience.

    In the port of Revachol a strike at the local shipping company has shut down the road. Your character has been called in to investigate a murder which you investigate with your partner Kim. Interacting with the world makes time go by and there are a lot of ways to interact with the world. Its truly up to you whether you care enough to exhaust dialogue options of the NPC's in Revachol or just read a book on the bench to pass the time waiting for future events.

    The music is very thoughtful, slow and airy as you explore the town of Revachol. There were times of only environment sound effects, the sea and breeze. It is all very thoughtful.

    Whether you choose to play the game as intended or abuse the RPG elements to 100% quests and dialogue, Disco Elysium is a treat to play.
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Metascore
91

Universal acclaim - based on 64 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 63 out of 64
  2. Negative: 0 out of 64
  1. Apr 10, 2020
    100
    A murder mystery set in a rich, fictional setting, Disco Elysium is told with sweeping profundity and hilarious absurdity. With no combat to impede story progression, this is a choice-driven role-playing adventure that deftly raises the bar of quality for the medium.
  2. Mar 28, 2020
    95
    Disco Elysium is a very special RPG that most of your time will be spent on reading. It features a well-written detective story, various tricky skill trees, and memorable characters. This game might be the best one of its kind. But if you can't stand reading for a long time, just don't try it.
  3. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Feb 28, 2020
    80
    Unconventionally conceived adventure game with excellent visuals and world worked out to the smallest detail. But it will satisfy only those of you who are not afraid of the huge amount of English dialogue, because it makes up the vast majority of gameplay. [Issue#299]