ZA/UM Studio has revealed that a free demo for their upcoming espionage-themed RPG, Zero Parades: For Dead Spies, will be accessible on PC as part of Steam Next Fest. The demo launches on February 23 and remains available until March 16, offering a curated glimpse into the game's opening segment. While not everything from this portion of the full release will be included, players can experience two complete quests, various side activities, and the freedom to explore the city-state of Portofiro. A gameplay video showcasing the initial moments of Zero Parades is available for a sneak peek.
Additionally, the demo allows players to select from three distinct character archetypes, which influence the skills and attributes of protagonist Hershel Wilk. ZA/UM recommends replaying the demo with each archetype to observe how physical, soulful, or analytical builds impact choices and opportunities.
In a recent interview with IGN, developers from ZA/UM shared insights into Zero Parades, which follows a retired spy undertaking one final mission. The game centers on the theme of failure, with its dialogue system designed around this concept. As stated in a press release, "Every door closed is an open opportunity to go through the window instead."
Zero Parades shares a similar design philosophy with ZA/UM's previous title, Disco Elysium, and is being developed by a team comprising both veteran and new staff. The full game is slated for release in 2026, initially on PC via Steam, GOG, and the Epic Games Store, followed by a PlayStation 5 version later.
For more in-depth coverage, check out our exclusive interview with ZA/UM Studio members, which provides a detailed look into the world and development of Zero Parades.
