In an intriguing twist for the RPG landscape, the developers of Rue Valley, a new narrative game, found themselves consulting with the creative minds behind Disco Elysium during a series of unexpected meetings conducted in Belgrade. Marko Smiljanic, the creative director of Rue Valley, recounted that the meetings with Disco Elysium team members were as unconventional as the games themselves.

They engaged in a unique architectural tour through Belgrade’s brutalist structures, which led to an exploratory dialogue about narrative design and production decisions. As Smiljanic put it, ‘This wasn’t something you expect from any kind of meeting.’ During these outdoor strolls, Smiljanic battled nervousness about sharing the game’s direction, unsure how Kurvitz and his team would react. However, the discussions eventually turned productive as they exchanged insights on game design.

The creative influences of Disco Elysium have evidently shaped Rue Valley, incorporating themes of personal trauma and self-exploration wrapped in a time-loop mechanic. The shared passion for storytelling and innovative game mechanics was clear, underscoring the collaborative spirit that is becoming prevalent in today’s gaming industry.