Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 News
2025
April 3
⚫︎ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is set to deliver a visually stunning experience for PC players with customizable graphical presets ranging from Low to Epic. Console gamers can choose between Performance and Quality modes, and PS5 Pro users can look forward to enhanced features, though specific details are yet to be disclosed. Xbox enthusiasts can now pre-load the game in anticipation of its global launch on April 24 at 12 AM PT / 3 AM ET. The game promises an engaging challenge with 56 achievements and trophies, including feats like defeating bosses without taking damage and collecting all 33 music records.
Read more: [Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Reveals Graphics Settings, Trophy Expectations, and Xbox Pre-Load Info Ahead of Launch](Noisy Pixel)
March 24
⚫︎ Sandfall Interactive has announced that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will forgo a minimap, opting instead for a compass to guide players. This design choice, as explained by producer Francois Meurisse, aims to enhance the game's exploration aspect and aligns with the narrative where players join an expedition into the unknown. Meurisse stated, "They don’t have a map because every previous expedition failed," emphasizing the immersive experience of feeling as lost and uncertain as the in-game characters.
Read more: [Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 won't have a mini map to preserve its sense of discovery, says producer](PC Gamer)
March 21
⚫︎ The director of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Guillaume Broche, shared that his passion for new turn-based RPGs led him to begin the project in 2019. Inspired by classics like Final Fantasy, Lost Odyssey, and FromSoftware's Sekiro, Broche sought to blend strategic combat with skill-based mechanics, creating a game that appeals to RPG enthusiasts yearning for fresh experiences.
Read more: [Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's director was 'starving for new turn-based RPGs,' and figured if he wanted them, there would be others out there who'd want to play his game](PC Gamer)
March 19
⚫︎ In a recent interview, producer Francois Meurisse discussed Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's innovative gameplay, merging turn-based strategy with challenging, off-rhythm enemy attacks. The game stands out with its Belle Epoque-inspired art style, a nod to Sandfall Interactive's aim for a visually and mechanically unique experience. Drawing from classic Final Fantasy titles, it also integrates real-time defensive mechanics inspired by Sekiro and action point-based skills from deckbuilders.
Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is Sekiro Meets Belle Époque Meets JRPG
March 3
⚫︎ Ahead of its release, gaming media had the chance to experience playable demos of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The feedback highlighted the game's turn-based combat as a notable evolution, skillfully combining elements from iconic JRPGs into a fresh and engaging system.
Read more: [How Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s turn-based combat pays homage to all-time great JRPGs](Epic Games Store News)
January 30
⚫︎ Even before its launch, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is slated for a movie adaptation. Sandfall Interactive has teamed up with Story Kitchen, known for projects like Sonic and the upcoming Dredge film. Although no director or cast has been revealed yet, the project is spearheaded by producers Dmitri M. Johnson, Mike Goldberg, and Elena Sandoval. Story Kitchen is eager to bring the game's compelling narrative and intricate characters to the big screen.
Read more: Clair Obscur is Getting Its Own Live-Action Movie
2024
August 29
⚫︎ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 draws significant inspiration from classic turn-based RPGs, with creative director Guillaume Broche citing influences from Final Fantasy VIII-X, Persona, and Octopath Traveler. As a dedicated fan of the genre, Broche aimed to craft a high-fidelity turn-based RPG that blends real-time reaction-based combat with strategic depth. Players can switch party members in the open world and utilize traversal abilities to solve puzzles. Broche expressed his excitement over the game's positive reception, hoping players will "break the game" with their creative builds. The development team aspires for Expedition 33 to have a lasting impact, much like the RPGs that inspired them.
Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Wears Its FF and Persona Influences on Its Sleeves
July 30
⚫︎ Creative director Guillaume Broche revealed that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is inspired by real-world art and literature, with its title referencing the 17th-18th century French artistic movement Clair Obscur and its story drawing from the novel La Horde du Contrevent. Broche highlighted the game's commitment to high-fidelity visuals and an innovative reactive turn-based battle system. Influences from Souls games, Devil May Cry, and NieR are integrated to modernize the turn-based RPG combat experience.
Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Historical Roots and Innovations
