Disco Elysium stands out in the RPG genre with its expansive array of upgradeable skills that shape not only the detective, Lt. Harry DuBois, but also his journey of survival and self-discovery following amnesia.
Skill Categories
Players can dive into a selection of twenty-four unique skills, which fall under four overarching attributes: Intellect, Psyche, Physique, and Motorics..
Leveling up these skills involves strategically allocating skill points earned during gameplay. Additionally, players can use these points to introduce Thoughts into Harry’s Thought Cabinet.
This skill development not only redefines Harry’s identity post-amnesia but also enriches the narrative experience. While players might be tempted to min-max their skills for optimization, the game itself discourages such a straightforward approach, offering minimal gameplay incentives typical of traditional RPGs.
Instead of emphasizing raw power, we will explore these skills through a narrative lens, delving into how they enhance the storytelling of Disco Elysium.
Half-Light
“He’s Bullying You. Kill Him Now”
“Let the body take control. Threaten people.”
Half-Light embodies the primal instincts of Harry, driving players to embrace his more aggressive and chaotic tendencies. At its peak, this skill transforms Harry into a creature of paranoia and instinct, reminiscent of a trapped animal.
Although not essential for a comprehensive gameplay experience, investing in Half-Light unveils a series of provocative and shocking internal dialogues narrated by Lenval Brown.
Hand/Eye Coordination
“Steady Hands Make Clean Work”
“Ready? Aim and fire.”
This skill excels in coordination and accuracy, particularly when handling firearms. Players with high Hand/Eye Coordination can execute trick shots with impressive speed, though this impulsiveness can lead to hasty decisions.
Ideally suited for players seeking a nail-biting thrill during occasional gunfights, this skill enhances the precarious nature of Harry’s encounters.
Visual Calculus
“Do Basic Trigonometry Like A Big Boy”
“Reconstruct crime scenes. Make laws of physics work for the Law.”
Visual Calculus empowers players to graphically reconstruct crime scenes, using keen observations and logical reasoning similar to iconic detectives like Sherlock Holmes. Mastering this skill facilitates adept analysis of the events and individuals involved in each case.
As this skill develops, Harry’s immersion in his thought processes may cause him to disregard external distractions, allowing him to visualize crucial details from the crime scene.
Perception
“Let Nothing Escape Your Senses”
“See, hear, and smell everything. Let no detail go unnoticed.”
Perception sharpens Harry’s senses, allowing him to identify secrets and details unnoticed by others. Successful checks reveal hidden locations or critical items, enhancing the game’s storytelling.
This skill not only enhances gameplay but also enriches the experience of navigating the vibrant world of Martinaise, revealing its intricate environment through a more vivid lens.
Electrochemistry
“Live A Little, Bratan!”
“Go to party planet. Love and be loved by drugs.”
This skill represents the hedonistic side of Harry, influencing his interactions with drugs, alcohol, and pleasure. Electrochemistry mitigates the adverse effects of substance use and can even aid in identifying when others are under the influence during conversations.
Choosing to embrace this side invites a range of intriguing interactions and outcomes, turning Harry into a “party cop” delighting in the scene’s impulsive moments.
Inland Empire
“In A World Of Pure Imagination”
“Hunches and gut feelings. Dreams in waking life.”
Inland Empire taps into Harry’s intuitive and imaginative side, allowing players to access a surreal dimension that reveals deeper insights and connections beyond the physical world. High levels in this skill may lead to whimsical dialogues with inanimate objects, epitomizing Harry’s fractured psyche.
This skill significantly contributes to the unique storytelling experience, inviting players to explore imaginative interactions within the game.
Empathy
“Be A Comforting Presence”
“Understand others. Work your mirror neurons.”
Empathy allows Harry to tune into the emotional currents surrounding him, picking up on subtle social cues and hidden emotions. High levels in Empathy make Harry exceptionally perceptive, helping him to connect more deeply with others and provide support when needed.
In contrast, low proficiency could lead to unintended insensitivity, making this skill critical for players aiming for a compassionate role through Harry’s journey.
Esprit de corps
“Bond With Fellow Officers”
“Connect to Station 41. Understand cop culture.”
Esprit de Corps fosters a bond between Harry and his fellow officers, offering deeper insights into their perspectives and experiences. This skill not only enhances interactions with Lt. Kim Kitsuragi but also enriches the understanding of police dynamics within the game’s narrative.
Composure
“Keep Your Cool”
“Straighten your back. Keep your poker face.”
In the turbulent world of Martinaise, maintaining composure is paramount. High levels in Composure equip Harry with a strong façade, allowing him to navigate intense scenarios while concealing his inner struggles from those observing him.
This skill also empowers him to better read the emotional states of others, making it vital for a character fitting into the chaotic atmospheres throughout the narrative.
Encyclopedia
“Mr. Harrier Know-It-All”
“Call upon all your knowledge. Produce fascinating trivia.”
Despite his amnesia, Harry retains a wealth of knowledge accessible via the Encyclopedia skill. This asset provides players with invaluable lore and context about the world of Disco Elysium. High expertise here leads to frequent informative tidbits regarding the game’s environment and history.
Volition
“Hold Yourself Together. Keep Your Morale Up.”
“Hold yourself together. Keep your Morale up.”
Often perceived as the counterbalance to Harry’s more reckless tendencies, Volition is essential for maintaining his mental and emotional stability. It governs the Morale meter—a crucial asset that emphasizes the importance of resilience in the face of challenges.
Shivers
“Listen To Revachol”
“Raise the hair on your neck. Tune in to the city.”
Shivers serves as a unique link between Harry and the vibrant essence of Revachol. Although it may not directly impact core gameplay mechanics, high levels of this skill envelop players in rich, poetic encounters with the city, enhancing the overall experience.
Through Shivers, players feel the palpable energy of Revachol, reinforcing their connection to the world beyond Harry’s narrative. With this skill, players realize they are part of a broader, intricate tapestry.
You shiver, and the world shivers with you.
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