Developer: Sandfall Interactive
Publisher: Kepler Interactive
Platform: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Release Date: 2025
Genre: Turn-based RPG
Introduction
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is one of those rare games that feels like it’s truly alive — blending stunning art, thrilling combat, and an unforgettable story into something that feels fresh yet timeless. Developed by the talented team at Sandfall Interactive, this ambitious RPG draws inspiration from classic turn-based games while pushing the genre into bold new territory. But does it live up to its gorgeous trailers and sky-high expectations? Let’s dive in.
Story & WorldBuliding
Set in a surreal, painterly world where reality and dreams blur, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 follows the journey of Gustave and his fellow "Expeditioners" as they battle against the enigmatic "Paintress." Each year, the Paintress erases people from existence with a mere brushstroke — and now, the Expeditioners are racing against time to stop her before their world fades away.
The narrative is rich and layered, weaving deep personal struggles into a broader existential crisis. Every character feels genuinely human, with their own fears, ambitions, and secrets. It’s a story that stays with you long after the credits roll.
Gameplay
At its heart, Clair Obscur is a turn-based RPG — but it’s not your typical menu-driven affair. Battles are dynamic, with real-time input for dodges, parries, and critical strikes. It's almost a fusion between Final Fantasy and Dark Souls, keeping players on their toes while still allowing for deep strategic planning.
Team composition matters. Each Expeditioner has unique abilities that can synergize beautifully — or disastrously — depending on your strategy. The game rewards creativity and adaptability, with some boss fights feeling like intricate puzzles rather than simple slugfests.
Exploration is equally rewarding, filled with hidden lore, side quests, and world-building details that encourage players to slow down and savor the beautifully crafted environments.
Visuals & Souds
Visually, Clair Obscur is absolutely breathtaking. The art direction draws heavy inspiration from classical paintings, resulting in a world that feels like you’re walking through a living canvas. Every environment — from misty cities to desolate dreamscapes — is dripping with atmosphere.
The soundtrack, composed by a blend of orchestral and ambient pieces, perfectly matches the emotional beats of the story. Voice acting is equally stellar, bringing authenticity to even the smallest interactions.
Performance
On PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, Clair Obscur runs smoothly, with minimal load times and crisp 4K visuals. PC players will also appreciate the high-end optimizations, though mid-range rigs might need a few tweaks to maintain consistent performance.
A few minor bugs appeared during our playthrough — mostly small animation hiccups and rare UI glitches — but nothing game-breaking. Sandfall Interactive has already promised a Day 1 patch to polish things even further.
Conclusion
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a triumph — a bold, beautiful RPG that isn’t afraid to innovate while still paying homage to its roots. Its emotional story, engaging gameplay, and jaw-dropping art direction make it one of the standout releases of 2025.
If you're a fan of story-driven adventures, strategic battles, and worlds you can get lost in, Clair Obscur deserves a place at the very top of your must-play list.
Score: ★★★★★ 9.5/10
Pros:
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Stunning art style
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Deep, emotional storytelling
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Innovative combat system
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Memorable characters
Cons:
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Minor bugs at launch
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High difficulty spikes may not suit all players
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