Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 News

2025

April 3

⚫︎ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 offers PC players a variety of graphical presets ranging from Low to Epic, while console users can select between Performance and Quality modes. The game is confirmed to be PS5 Pro Enhanced, though specific details remain undisclosed. 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 announced that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will not feature a minimap, opting instead for a compass to guide navigation. Producer Francois Meurisse explained that this choice aims to foster a sense of exploration rather than dependence on UI elements. This decision also aligns with the game's narrative, where players join an expedition into the unknown, following the paths of previous explorers who did not succeed. "They don’t have a map because every previous expedition failed," Meurisse stated, 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, began the project in 2019, driven by his passion 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, creating a unique gaming experience.

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 mix of turn-based strategy and challenging, off-rhythm enemy attacks. Rooted in JRPG traditions, the game stands out with its Belle Epoque-inspired art style, reflecting Sandfall Interactive's vision for a visually and mechanically unique experience. The game 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

⚫︎ Gaming News Media had the opportunity to play demos of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 before its release, and many were impressed by the game's turn-based combat system. It represents an evolution and combination of elements from the greatest JRPGs, offering a fresh take on the genre.

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 partnered with Story Kitchen, known for projects like Sonic and the upcoming Dredge movie. While no director or cast has been announced yet, producers Dmitri M. Johnson, Mike Goldberg, and Elena Sandoval are involved. Story Kitchen is eager to bring the game's rich narrative and complex 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 key influences. As a fan of the genre, Broche aimed to create a turn-based RPG with high-fidelity graphics, integrating real-time reaction-based combat with strategic depth. Players can switch party members in the open world and use traversal abilities to solve puzzles. Broche was thrilled by the game's positive reception and hopes players will "break the game" with creative builds. The development team aspires for Expedition 33 to have a lasting impact, similar to 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 draws inspiration from real-world art and literature, with its title referencing the Clair Obscur artistic movement of 17th-18th century France and its story influenced by the novel La Horde du Contrevent. Broche highlighted the game's focus on high-fidelity visuals and its innovative reactive turn-based battle system, drawing influence from Souls games, Devil May Cry, and NieR to modernize the genre.

Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Historical Roots and Innovations