In a world where time is literally painted away, the debut title from French developer Sandfall Interactive, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, presents a haunting narrative that intertwines existential dread with a unique combat system. This turn-based RPG has quickly captured the attention of gamers, blending elements of classic Japanese RPGs like Final Fantasy and Persona with innovative mechanics reminiscent of Paper Mario.
Set in a surreal version of Belle Époque France, Clair Obscur follows a group of expeditioners, including the protagonist Gustave, in their desperate quest to confront a god-like entity known as the Paintress. Each year, the Paintress paints a number on a monolith, indicating the age of those who will perish that year—a countdown that has been ongoing for 67 years. As the game begins, the number is 33, meaning everyone aged 33 will vanish into dust and crimson petals, a fate the expeditioners are determined to prevent.
Upon joining Expedition 33, players experience the weight of impending mortality as they navigate a world filled with beautifully rendered environments and a diverse soundtrack that ranges from orchestral to electronic beats. The characters, including the inquisitive mage Lune and the brave Sciel, are well-developed, each with their own motivations and backstories that enrich the narrative. The writing balances poetic world-building with grounded emotional storytelling, making the characters relatable and their struggles poignant.
The game’s combat system is a standout feature, combining traditional turn-based mechanics with real-time elements that require players to engage in quick-time events (QTEs) to maximize their attacks and defenses. This reactive combat style keeps players on their toes, as they must dodge or parry enemy attacks to survive. Gustave, for instance, has a special ability called Overcharge, which builds energy in his mechanical arm, allowing him to unleash a powerful electric strike after several turns.
However, the combat system is not without its frustrations. Some players have noted that the timing for dodges and parries can be inconsistent, leading to moments of frustration during intense battles. The game’s enemies, known as Nevrons, vary in design and attack patterns, presenting unique challenges that require players to adapt their strategies continuously. While the combat can be engaging, it sometimes feels at odds with the turn-based framework, leaving players to grapple with a rhythm that can feel more akin to an action game than a traditional RPG.
Despite these challenges, the game’s exploration elements are compelling. Players traverse a richly detailed world filled with floating islands, ancient ruins, and bizarre creatures that blur the line between fantasy and reality. The environments are designed to evoke a sense of wonder, with each location telling its own story. However, some players have expressed a desire for a mini-map to aid navigation, as the lack of one can lead to disorientation in more complex areas.
The game’s soundtrack, composed by Lorien Testard, enhances the emotional depth of the story. It features a mix of haunting melodies and energetic battle themes that draw players deeper into the world. Voice acting from a talented cast, including Charlie Cox and Andy Serkis, adds another layer of immersion, bringing the characters to life with heartfelt performances.
While Clair Obscur runs approximately 20 to 30 hours, its pacing is deliberate and engaging, ensuring that every scene feels purposeful. The developers have crafted a narrative that is both meaningful and profound, inviting players to reflect on themes of loss, family, and the role of art in coping with mortality. Optional quests and superbosses provide additional challenges for those seeking to delve deeper into the game’s lore and mechanics.
As players journey through the landscapes of Lumière, they encounter a variety of side characters and hidden treasures that enrich the overall experience. Collecting expedition journals reveals the fates of those who came before, adding a layer of depth to the narrative and encouraging exploration.
In conclusion, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a bold and imaginative debut that successfully combines a unique narrative with engaging gameplay. While it may not be without its flaws—such as occasional audio issues and the need for improved navigation tools—the game’s strengths far outweigh its shortcomings. For those who appreciate character-driven RPGs with a distinct vibe, Clair Obscur is a journey worth taking, one that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
