ZA/UM, the developers behind the critically acclaimed Disco Elysium, are offering players a first look at their next project, Zero Parades: For Dead Spies, through a playable demo as part of the upcoming Steam Next Fest. The demo will be available from to , providing a taste of the espionage-themed experience.
The demo isn’t a complete slice of the game, but a “curated” experience focusing on the opening hours of Zero Parades. Players will have access to two full missions, a variety of side activities, and the freedom to explore the city-state of Portofiro. While not all content from this section of the full game will be present, it offers a substantial preview of the world and gameplay mechanics.
A recent gameplay video, available through IGN, showcases the initial minutes of Zero Parades, giving potential players a visual introduction to the game’s atmosphere and style. (See https://me.ign.com/ar/zero-parades/189502/video/embed)
A key feature highlighted by ZA/UM is the ability to choose from three distinct character archetypes at the start of the demo. These archetypes – physical, spiritual, and analytical – define the skills and stats of the protagonist, Hershel Wilk. The developers encourage players to replay the demo with each archetype to experience how different builds impact choices and opportunities within the game. This suggests a significant degree of player agency and replayability, mirroring elements found in Disco Elysium.
Zero Parades shares a stylistic and thematic lineage with Disco Elysium, though it ventures into the realm of espionage. The game centers around a retired spy called back for one final mission. ZA/UM has emphasized that failure is a central theme, and the game’s dialogue system is designed around this concept. As the studio stated, “Every door that closes is an open window.” This suggests a narrative structure that embraces unexpected outcomes and unconventional problem-solving.
The development team comprises both veteran ZA/UM staff and new members. This blend of experience is intended to build upon the successes of Disco Elysium while forging a new identity for Zero Parades. The full game is slated for release in 2026, initially on PC via Steam, GOG, and the Epic Games Store, with a later release planned for PlayStation 5.
Steam Next Fest itself is a recurring event designed to give players access to demos of upcoming games. According to Steam’s official documentation, the event aims to connect players with titles they might be interested in, provide developers with valuable feedback, and generate excitement for future releases. The February 2026 edition of Steam Next Fest will provide a platform for Zero Parades to reach a wider audience. (https://store.steampowered.com/sale/nextfest, https://partner.steamgames.com/doc/marketing/upcoming_events/nextfest)
The announcement of the Zero Parades demo comes after its initial reveal at Gamescom Opening Night Live 2025. (
