Zero Parades: For Dead Spies has officially unveiled its gameplay. The game was first teased at Gamescom in late August 2025. But that only showed a few seconds of what players could expect. During the recent State of Play event by Sony, the developer shared more. At the same time, the upcoming title received its official launch window.
Spy Fantasy Role-Playing Game
The game is developed by the same creator of the critically acclaimed Disco Elysium, ZA/UM. So, everyone can expect it to continue the tradition of making deep stories. This new title still features meaningful storytelling. Likewise, there will be choices to make that shape the overall narrative.
At the same time, the studio wants to explore other things. Zero Parades: For Dead Spies is a step into the world of spies. Aside from building on Disco Elysium’s legacy, ZA/UM is also adding new gameplay features.
According to ZA/UM, players put on the shoes of Hershel Wilk. This character is a skilled but unlucky “Operant.” It is set in a messy world. The universe is full of shifting loyalties and unavoidable failure.
“Zero Parades – For Dead Spies is a narrative-first espionage RPG steeped in paranoia, surrealism, and a struggle for redemption,” said the developers in an announcement. Â
Making Every Choice Count
ZA/UM said that one new feature is Dramatic Encounters. These are intense moments that slow down time. Players must make quick decisions to survive deadly situations. However, they cannot just fight their way out. Skills are not going to help either. Zero Parades relies on dice rolls in determining outcomes. Also, character attributes influence this system.
The Story Continues No Matter What Happens
For Dead Spies embodies the studio’s philosophy of “failing forward.” In short, the story continues no matter the player’s success or setbacks. Failure is part of the experience. And it also drives the story forward.
The game is adding the Exert button. It lets players take a risk by having a third die to roll. Out of three results, they get to keep the best two during dice checks. It sounds good. But it comes with a cost. However, ZA/UM has not yet said what the sacrifice is.
Mental Resilience
Another unique mechanic in the game is Conditioning. It allows the protagonist to support thoughts found in the game. Conditioning boosts skills and unlocks new ways of thinking.
Zero Parades: For Dead Spies arrives in 2026. Fans can expect it on PC and PS5.
