Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 News
2025
April 3
⚫︎ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 offers PC players a variety of graphical settings ranging from Low to Epic, while console players can choose between Performance and Quality modes. The game is optimized for PS5 Pro, though detailed specifications remain under wraps. Xbox enthusiasts can now pre-load the game in anticipation of its global launch on April 24 at 12 AM PT / 3 AM ET. Players can look forward to unlocking 56 achievements and trophies, including challenges such as 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 decided that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will not feature a minimap, opting instead for a compass to enhance the sense of exploration. Producer Francois Meurisse explained that this design choice aims to foster a deeper engagement with the game's world, mirroring the narrative where players join an expedition into unknown territories, much like the unsuccessful explorers before them. Meurisse emphasized, "They don’t have a map because every previous expedition failed," underscoring the theme of uncertainty and discovery.
Read more: [Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 won't have a mini map to preserve its sense of discovery, says producer](PC Gamer)
March 21
⚫︎ Guillaume Broche, the director of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, embarked on this project driven by a personal passion for turn-based RPGs. Feeling a lack of new titles in the genre, Broche began development in 2019, drawing inspiration from iconic games like Final Fantasy, Lost Odyssey, and FromSoftware's Sekiro. His goal was to create a game that blends strategic combat with skill-based mechanics, catering to fellow enthusiasts of the genre.
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
⚫︎ Producer Francois Meurisse showcased Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's innovative approach to turn-based strategy, integrating challenging off-rhythm enemy attacks. The game pays homage to JRPG traditions while setting itself apart with a Belle Epoque-inspired art style. Sandfall Interactive aims to deliver a visually and mechanically unique experience, merging elements from classic Final Fantasy games with real-time defensive mechanics inspired by Sekiro and action point-based skills reminiscent of deckbuilders.
Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is Sekiro Meets Belle Époque Meets JRPG
March 3
⚫︎ Gaming media outlets have had the chance to experience playable demos of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The game's turn-based combat system is praised for its evolution and homage to the great JRPGs that came before it, offering players a fresh yet familiar experience.
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 release, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is set to become a movie, with Sandfall Interactive partnering with Story Kitchen, known for projects like Sonic and the upcoming Dredge movie. While details on the director and cast are yet to be revealed, the project is led 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 Final Fantasy VIII-X, Persona, and Octopath Traveler as major influences. Broche, a dedicated fan of the genre, set out to craft a high-fidelity turn-based RPG that integrates 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 delight at the game's positive reception, hoping that players would explore creative builds to "break the game." The development team aspires for Expedition 33 to have a lasting impact, echoing 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 deeply rooted in real-world art and literature, taking its name from the 17th-18th century French artistic movement known as Clair Obscur. The game's narrative is influenced by the novel La Horde du Contrevent. Broche emphasized the game's commitment to high-fidelity visuals and its innovative reactive turn-based battle system. Drawing inspiration from Souls games, Devil May Cry, and NieR, the game seeks to revolutionize the traditional turn-based RPG combat experience.
Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Historical Roots and Innovations
