Earlier this year, we learned about Project X7, a standalone Disco Elysium expansion that was canceled in February along with substantial layoffs at ZA/UM, which included Argo Tuulik, the last remaining writer from the original game’s credits. This development was disappointing for fans of the series.

Now, a Disco Elysium YouTuber, Jamrock Hobo, has shared an almost 15-minute video featuring an internal presentation about Project X7, detailing its progression just months before its cancellation. You might expect this to be an April Fool’s prank because of the upload date, but it features clear audio from Dora Klindžić, a former ZA/UM writer.

The video reveals that Project X7 was subtitled “Locust City – An Elysium Story” and that it was designed as a single-player co-operative experience where players could switch between the two main characters, Cuno and Cunoesse. These characters, initially depicted as troublemakers in Disco Elysium, would have provided a fresh perspective on the narrative.

The gameplay would have featured various skills, akin to those from the original game like Inland Empire and Authority, as well as entirely new abilities specific to each character. For instance, Cunoesse’s traversal would have access to skills such as Pursuit and Ambush while Cuno would possess Scar Shield and Beastmaster Racoono.

Throughout the game’s five acts, players would accompany the characters through events triggered by a murder, giving rise to dynamic interactions and choices affecting multiple endings. This would have included unique collectibles impacting the narrative and the ability to engage in skill checks as a cooperative unit.

In summary, the tale behind Project X7 provides a compelling glimpse into a Disco Elysium sequel that ultimately won’t see the light of day, especially as ZA/UM shifts its focus towards a mobile adaptation and other unannounced projects.