Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 News
2025
April 3
⚫︎ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is set to enhance the gaming experience for PC players with a wide range of graphical presets, spanning from Low to Epic. Console enthusiasts can select between Performance and Quality modes to suit their preferences. Notably, the game will be PS5 Pro Enhanced, though specific details on enhancements remain under wraps. Xbox users have the advantage of pre-loading the game ahead of its global launch, scheduled for April 24 at 12 AM PT / 3 AM ET. Players can look forward to tackling 56 achievements and trophies, including challenging 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 made a bold choice for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 by opting out of a traditional minimap, instead employing a compass to guide players. Producer Francois Meurisse explained this decision aims to foster a deeper sense of exploration and aligns with the game's narrative of venturing into the unknown. As players follow in the footsteps of past expeditions that failed, the absence of a map underscores 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 behind Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, embarked on this project fueled by a passion for turn-based RPGs. His inspiration stemmed from a personal longing for new entries in the genre, drawing from beloved titles like Final Fantasy, Lost Odyssey, and FromSoftware's Sekiro. Broche's vision is to seamlessly blend strategic combat with skill-based mechanics, offering a fresh experience to fans.
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 an engaging interview, producer Francois Meurisse shed light on Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's unique gameplay mechanics, blending turn-based strategy with the challenge of off-rhythm enemy attacks. Rooted in JRPG traditions, the game stands out with its Belle Epoque-inspired art style, a nod to Sandfall Interactive's French heritage. It draws inspiration from classics like Final Fantasy while introducing 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
⚫︎ Ahead of its release, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has garnered attention through playable demos showcased to gaming media. The game's turn-based combat has been praised for its innovative approach, paying homage to iconic JRPGs while pushing the boundaries with a unique blend of mechanics.
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 hitting the shelves, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is making waves in the film industry with a confirmed movie adaptation. Sandfall Interactive has teamed up with Story Kitchen, known for their work on Sonic and the upcoming Dredge movie. While details on the director and cast are yet to be announced, the project is helmed 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 proudly wears its influences from classic turn-based RPGs on its sleeve, with creative director Guillaume Broche citing Final Fantasy VIII-X, Persona, and Octopath Traveler as major inspirations. Broche's passion for the genre drives his vision to create a high-fidelity turn-based RPG that blends real-time reaction-based combat with deep strategic elements. Players can switch party members in the open world, utilizing traversal abilities to navigate puzzles. Broche expressed his delight at the game's positive reception, hoping that players will experiment and "break the game" with innovative builds.
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 draws its inspiration from the rich tapestry of real-world art and literature. The game's title echoes the Clair Obscur artistic movement from 17th-18th century France, while its narrative finds roots in the novel La Horde du Contrevent. Broche's emphasis on high-fidelity visuals and an innovative reactive turn-based battle system aims to modernize the genre, taking cues from Souls games, Devil May Cry, and NieR.
Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Historical Roots and Innovations
