Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 News
2025
April 3
⚫︎ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 offers PC players a diverse range of graphical settings, from Low to Epic, while console gamers can choose between Performance and Quality modes. The game is optimized for the PS5 Pro, though detailed specifications are yet to be disclosed. Xbox enthusiasts can pre-load the game in anticipation of its worldwide launch on April 24 at 12 AM PT / 3 AM ET. Players can look forward to unlocking 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 decided that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will not feature a minimap, instead utilizing a compass to guide players. Producer Francois Meurisse explained that this choice aims to foster a sense of exploration and immersion, aligning with the game's narrative of venturing into the unknown. "They don’t have a map because every previous expedition failed," Meurisse noted, emphasizing the intended experience of feeling lost and uncertain, mirroring the in-game characters' journey.
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, embarked on developing the game in 2019, driven by his passion for new turn-based RPGs. Inspired by classics such as Final Fantasy, Lost Odyssey, and FromSoftware's Sekiro, Broche sought to blend strategic combat with skill-based gameplay, catering to fans 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 recently discussed how Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 combines turn-based strategy with unique, off-rhythm enemy attacks. Rooted in JRPG traditions, the game sets itself apart with its Belle Epoque-inspired art style. Sandfall Interactive aims to deliver a visually and mechanically distinctive experience, drawing from Final Fantasy's legacy and incorporating real-time defensive mechanics from Sekiro, alongside action point-based skills inspired by deckbuilders.
Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is Sekiro Meets Belle Époque Meets JRPG (Game8)
March 3
⚫︎ Ahead of its launch, gaming media outlets had the opportunity to try playable demos of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The game's turn-based combat system received high praise for its innovative approach, building upon and evolving the mechanics of iconic JRPGs.
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 be adapted into a movie. Sandfall Interactive has teamed up with Story Kitchen, known for projects like Sonic and the upcoming Dredge film. While details on the director and cast remain under wraps, producers Dmitri M. Johnson, Mike Goldberg, and Elena Sandoval are on board. 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 (GameRant)
2024
August 29
⚫︎ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is heavily influenced by classic turn-based RPGs, with creative director Guillaume Broche drawing inspiration from Final Fantasy VIII-X, Persona, and Octopath Traveler. Aiming to merge high-fidelity graphics with real-time, reaction-based combat, the game allows players to switch party members and use traversal abilities to tackle puzzles. Broche hopes players will experiment with creative builds to "break the game," aspiring for Expedition 33 to make a lasting impression on the genre.
Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Wears Its FF and Persona Influences on Its Sleeves (Game8)
July 30
⚫︎ Creative director Guillaume Broche highlighted that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 draws from the Clair Obscur art movement of 17th-18th century France and the novel La Horde du Contrevent. The game focuses on high-fidelity visuals and an innovative reactive turn-based battle system, taking cues from Souls games, Devil May Cry, and NieR to modernize the traditional RPG combat experience.
Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Historical Roots and Innovations (Game8)
