In a remarkable achievement for the gaming industry, the turn-based RPG Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has sold over two million copies in just 12 days since its global launch on April 24, 2025. This impressive milestone was announced by developer Sandfall Interactive and publisher Kepler Interactive, who expressed their gratitude to fans in a heartfelt message: "We've watched in awe as so many of you began your journey. Feeling every step, every emotion, every revelation alongside you. To those just joining us: welcome. Tomorrow comes."
The game had a phenomenal start, selling 500,000 copies within the first 24 hours, and reaching the one million mark just three days after its release. By May 6, the sales figures had soared to two million, showcasing the game's widespread appeal and popularity among players.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has captivated audiences with its unique blend of turn-based and real-time combat mechanics, drawing inspiration from traditional JRPGs while infusing fresh elements that set it apart. The game's narrative, steeped in the themes of sacrifice and memory, takes players on a poignant journey as they join the titular 33rd expedition, tasked with breaking a deadly cycle caused by a mysterious entity known as “Paintless.”
Available on multiple platforms including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (via Steam and the Epic Games Store), the game has also been made accessible through Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass subscriptions, which could have impacted direct sales. Despite this, the game has thrived, with over 785,000 copies sold on Steam alone within its first week. On May 4, it peaked at 145,063 concurrent players on the platform, highlighting its strong online presence.
Critics have praised Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 for its exquisite design and emotional storytelling, earning it a Metacritic score of 92 and a user rating of 9.7 as of May 7, 2025. Richard Wakeling from GameSpot noted, "There are minor pitfalls in relation to its narrow exploration and some quality-of-life issues, but these missteps aren't enough to significantly detract from a game with all the makings of an RPG classic." This acclaim has contributed significantly to the game's rapid sales growth.
Moreover, the soundtrack of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has also garnered attention, achieving the top spot on Billboard's Classical Album Chart and the Classical Crossover Album Chart. The score, composed by Lorien Testard, consists of 154 tracks totaling eight hours of music, and has amassed over 18 million streams since its release. Testard expressed gratitude to fans, stating, "Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Sharing this adventure with you is an unforgettable joy."
The partnership between Sega, Kepler Interactive, and Sandfall Interactive has played a crucial role in the game's success, particularly in the Japanese market where they have collaborated on the physical release for PlayStation 5. The game is priced at 6,727 yen (7,400 yen including tax) and has been well-received, with over 350,000 copies sold on the PS5 within the same timeframe.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 may signal a shift in the RPG genre, particularly in how developers integrate new mechanics and storytelling techniques. The game's combination of strategic gameplay, rich aesthetics inspired by the Belle Époque, and a deeply resonant narrative has struck a chord with players globally.
Looking ahead, while no sequels or downloadable content have been officially announced, the current enthusiasm surrounding the game suggests that it could pave the way for future developments in the RPG genre. Fans are eager for more content and updates, as they continue to explore the intricate world of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
In summary, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has not only achieved remarkable sales figures but has also established itself as a cultural phenomenon, receiving accolades from various corners, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who praised it as "a shining example of French audacity and creativity." With its innovative gameplay and compelling storytelling, it has set a new standard for future RPGs.
