Not long ago, ZA/UM—known for its work on Disco Elysium—stirred up controversy by offering a $165 carrier bag inspired by the game. This peculiar marketing move stood at odds with the game’s anti-capitalist themes. Former developer and Disco Elysium writer, Dora Klindžić, commented in an interview with YouTuber The 41st Precinct that despite public criticism, those who complain might still purchase these items.

“This is an incredibly successful business for [ZA/UM], incredibly successful,” said Klindžić. “The darkest thing I ever heard was they told me it doesn’t matter what people say on Twitter, as often they are the same ones buying the expensive items later.”

She emphasized the paradox where consumers professing disdain for such practices frequently fall victim to their own purchasing habits. Klindžić expressed her dismay at the culture surrounding consumerism:

“This loud minority doesn’t matter because people covet these items more than they care about morals and integrity.”

Ultimately, whether to buy an expensive shopping bag shouldn’t elevate to a significant moral dilemma; however, Klindžić believes such behaviors warrant deeper reflection, especially when they drive corporate strategies.

This commentary opens a broader discussion on the implications of consumer behavior and corporate ethics in the world of gaming.