“Clair Obscur: Expedition 33,” developed by French studio Sandfall Interactive, made waves during the Xbox Games Showcase 2024, garnering immediate interest from RPG enthusiasts. This title stands out as a fresh entry in the genre, merging turn-based mechanics reminiscent of classic Japanese RPGs with a realistic aesthetic that echoes Western titles like “Dragon Age.” The game also exhibits some design similarities with “Persona 5,” particularly in its gameplay camera dynamics and user interface.
**The Landscape of Turn-Based RPGs**
Despite their rich heritage, turn-based RPGs have seen a decline in popularity, especially compared to the rise of action-oriented titles like “Horizon Zero Dawn.” While the action genre flourishes, with sales records showing over 20 million copies for the former, traditional Japanese RPGs like “Persona 5” and its spin-offs have collectively sold around half of that total. Developers are increasingly shifting to real-time combat mechanics to attract wider audiences, as observed in recent iterations of the “Final Fantasy” franchise.
Today, turn-based combat is often associated with nostalgic classics like “Chrono Trigger” or indie titles that aim to evoke retro gameplay. However, few modern games merge the turn-based approach with the realistic aesthetic characteristic of Western RPGs. “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33” bridges this gap, exhibiting a rich narrative filled with themes of rebellion against a god and personal struggles, alongside a captivating soundtrack.
**A Premise Grounded in Existential Themes**
Set in a dark fantasy realm, the game explores significant existential dilemmas. The omnipotent deity known as the Paintress can erase any individual of a specific age from existence by marking them on her monolith. This ominous power initiates a series of failed missions known as expeditions, with the countdown to oblivion continually escalating. Each failed mission results in the erasure of an entire age group, dramatically affecting society’s structure, particularly for 33-year-olds, as outlined by the game’s backstory.
The consequences of each failed expedition directly impact the lifespan of the game’s characters.
Kepler Interactive
The narrative incorporates characters grappling with their existential realities. The main cast, consisting of Gustave, Maelle, Lune, Sciel, and Monoco, navigates personal and collective tragedies in their mission against the Paintress. The characters’ personalities contrast sharply with the more exaggerated archetypes usually seen in anime-inspired RPGs, offering a more grounded experience.
**Mechanical and Combat Innovations**
Combat in “Expedition 33” features a turn-based structure, allowing three party members to engage enemies in a strategic format without the often restrictive magic point (MP) system common in many traditional RPGs. Instead, players manage action points (AP), which can regenerate through successful parries and dodges, providing an added layer of tactical depth.
Drawing inspiration from titles like “Lost Odyssey,” the game incorporates Quick-Time Events (QTEs) during attack animations, enhancing engagement and allowing players to amplify their attacks or defensive maneuvers significantly. Success in parrying also unleashes potent counterattacks that can turn the tide of battle, rewarding skillful play.
Combat mechanics feature Quick-Time Events to enhance player engagement.
Kepler Interactive
In addition to strategic combat, character classes defy traditional definitions, allowing each character to possess unique skills that do not fit into standard roles. For instance, Maelle alters her stance to gain various advantages, while Monoco’s special ability is referred to as the Bestial Wheel, diversifying combat strategies available to players.
**Visual and World Design**
Built utilizing Unreal Engine 5, “Expedition 33” presents striking graphics that combine elements from both high-fantasy aesthetics and grounded realities. The world is populated with breathtaking landscapes and imaginative design, enhancing the gaming experience.
Unlike open-world structures that often overwhelm players with trivial tasks, the game employs segmented dungeons crafted with care, ensuring meaningful exploration that avoids redundancy. In addition, players can discover supplementary resources and lore hidden within the environment, further enriching the narrative context.
**Conclusion and Release Information**
“Clair Obscur: Expedition 33” promises to be a significant addition to the RPG landscape, featuring a complex narrative and engaging combat mechanics that appeal to both traditional and modern gamers alike. This title is set to launch on April 24 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows PC, marking an impressive debut for Sandfall Interactive as they navigate the challenging waters of the gaming industry.