Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 News
2025
April 3
⚫︎ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will offer PC players a variety of graphical options, ranging from Low to Epic settings, while console gamers can choose between Performance and Quality modes. The game has been confirmed to be optimized for the PS5 Pro, though specific details remain under wraps. Meanwhile, Xbox players can now pre-load the game in anticipation of its global launch on April 24 at 12 AM PT / 3 AM ET. The title will feature 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 revealed that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will not feature a minimap, opting instead for a compass to guide players. Producer Francois Meurisse explained that this choice was made to foster a sense of exploration rather than dependence on UI elements. This design decision is deeply intertwined with the game's narrative, where players embark on an expedition into the unknown, following the paths of unsuccessful explorers before them. "They don’t have a map because every previous expedition failed," Meurisse noted, emphasizing the intended feeling 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, initiated the project in 2019 out of a deep desire for new turn-based RPGs. Inspired by classics like Final Fantasy, Lost Odyssey, and FromSoftware's Sekiro, Broche aimed to blend strategic combat with skill-based mechanics, hoping to satisfy other 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
⚫︎ In a recent interview, producer Francois Meurisse emphasized Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's unique combination of turn-based strategy and challenging, unpredictable enemy attacks. Rooted in JRPG traditions, the game stands out with its Belle Epoque-inspired art style, showcasing Sandfall Interactive’s vision for a visually and mechanically unique experience. It draws from classic Final Fantasy titles while integrating 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, playable demos of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 were shared with gaming media, who praised the game’s turn-based combat for its innovative approach, merging elements from past greats into a fresh 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 official launch, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is set to be adapted into a movie. Sandfall Interactive has teamed up with Story Kitchen, known for its game-to-film adaptations such as Sonic and the upcoming Dredge movie. While no director or cast has been announced, producers Dmitri M. Johnson, Mike Goldberg, and Elena Sandoval are involved. 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 is heavily influenced by classic turn-based RPGs, with creative director Guillaume Broche drawing inspiration from Final Fantasy VIII-X, Persona, and Octopath Traveler. A fan of the genre, Broche sought to create a turn-based RPG with high-fidelity graphics that integrates real-time, reaction-based combat with strategic elements. Players can switch party members in the open world and utilize traversal abilities to solve puzzles. Broche was thrilled by the game's positive reception and hopes players will experiment with creative builds. The development team aspires for Expedition 33 to have a lasting impact, akin to the RPGs that influenced 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 draws inspiration from real-world art and literature, specifically the Clair Obscur artistic movement from 17th-18th century France and the novel La Horde du Contrevent. The game emphasizes high-fidelity visuals and introduces an innovative reactive turn-based battle system, influenced by Souls games, Devil May Cry, and NieR, aiming to bring modern flair to traditional RPG combat.
Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Historical Roots and Innovations
