On April 24, 2025, the gaming world welcomed a new title that has quickly garnered attention and praise: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. This role-playing game (RPG), developed by the French studio Sandfall Interactive, merges the aesthetic charm of the Belle Époque with elements of fantasy and surrealism, creating a unique experience for players. Available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, the game is also accessible via Game Pass, making it easier for gamers to dive into its richly crafted world.
Set in a post-apocalyptic city named Lumière, which echoes the elegance of a fantastical Paris, the game introduces players to a landscape where iconic structures like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe stand in ruins. This captivating setting is brought to life through a captivating narrative that revolves around an enigmatic character known as the Peintresse, who awakens annually to paint a cursed number on her monolith. This year, the number is 33, and it signifies the age at which inhabitants of Lumière turn into smoke, a fate the player seeks to avert.
As players embark on their journey with characters such as Gustave, Maelle, Lune, Sciel, or Monoco le Gestral, they will lead "Expedition 33" to confront the Peintresse and unravel the mysteries of their world. The gameplay is primarily turn-based, but it innovatively incorporates real-time mechanics like dodging, parrying, and counter-attacking, adding a layer of dynamism to combat encounters. This blend of traditional and modern gameplay mechanics has been noted as a refreshing take on the genre.
Critics have responded positively to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, with many praising its poignant storytelling and immersive universe. The game boasts a rich vocal cast, including notable actors such as Adeline Chetail, Alexandre Gillet, and Feodor Atkine, who lend their voices to the characters, enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative. The original soundtrack, composed by Lorien Testard, features 154 tracks and over eight hours of music, further elevating the gaming experience.
According to Guillaume Broche, president and creative director of Sandfall Interactive, the game's artistic direction emphasizes its French origins. "It's part of our artistic direction to constantly bring to mind that everything is of French origin," he explained. This commitment to cultural authenticity is evident in the character names and dialogue, which include French phrases, enriching the game's atmosphere.
In the lead-up to its launch, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 gained significant traction, with over one million players adding it to their wish lists, a notable achievement for an independent studio. François Meurisse, one of the studio's founders, expressed enthusiasm about the promising beginnings, stating, "We are at a crucial moment, and the early response is encouraging. It bodes well for both critical and commercial success."
Players can expect a gameplay duration of at least 30 hours to reach the 33rd level, with the potential for double that time to explore the expansive universe and solve additional puzzles. The game is designed to keep players engaged with unpredictable twists and a narrative that unfolds gradually, challenging them to adapt and strategize.
In terms of pricing, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is currently available at a discount of 15% on Gamesplanet, with the standard edition priced at €42.49 instead of €49.99, and the deluxe edition at €50.99 instead of €59.99. This promotional offer is set to last for a limited time, allowing players to experience this ambitious title at a reduced cost.
Moreover, the game has received a remarkable score of 92% on Metacritic, solidifying its status as an essential title for fans of turn-based RPGs. With its combination of artistic vision, engaging gameplay, and a compelling narrative, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is poised to leave a lasting mark on the gaming landscape.
As gaming continues to evolve, titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 demonstrate that independent studios can create rich, narrative-driven experiences that resonate with players. Sandfall Interactive's debut is not just a game; it’s an invitation to explore a beautifully crafted world filled with emotion, strategy, and a deep connection to its cultural roots.
