The game Disco Elysium by ZA/UM has undeniably made a profound impact on the gaming industry since its release.
Recently, one of the game’s creators, Siim “Kosmos” Sinamäe, reflected on the immense success of the title, particularly in light of the recent release of Esoteric Ebb, a game developed in the spirit of ZA/UM’s project.
Sinamäe expressed genuine surprise and humility regarding the journey, noting his astonishment that “what we began creating in Estonia, in a rather modest, even shabby, apartment,” has garnered such significant cultural influence.
According to the veteran scriptwriter, the philosophy at ZA/UM actively discourages complacency. They deliberately avoid the mindset of “we did it once – that means we’re at the top forever.” Instead, their core belief revolves around the idea that “you need to challenge yourself every day.”
To articulate this ongoing pursuit of excellence, Sinamäe cited a Russian proverb:
“In Russia, there’s a saying: ‘There are no kings in fishing,’ because you’re only as good as the last fish you caught. There’s no point in saying: ‘Half a year ago I caught such a huge pike.’ What you did today is important.”
This proverb perfectly encapsulates ZA/UM’s commitment to continuous innovation and the belief that past achievements, no matter how grand, do not guarantee future success without persistent effort.