Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Latest Updates

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 News

2025

April 3

⚫︎ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 offers PC players a diverse array of graphical presets ranging from Low to Epic, while console gamers can select between Performance and Quality modes. The game is confirmed to be PS5 Pro Enhanced, though specific details on the enhancements remain under wraps. Xbox enthusiasts 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, challenging players to accomplish feats 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 made the strategic decision to exclude a minimap from Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, opting for a compass to guide navigation. Producer Francois Meurisse shared that this choice was made to foster a sense of exploration and reduce dependency on UI elements. This design also intertwines with the game's narrative, where players embark on an expedition into the unknown, mirroring the journeys of past explorers who did not return. "They don’t have a map because every previous expedition failed," Meurisse explained, 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, expressed his passion for turn-based RPGs, which led him to start development on this project in 2019. Driven by a desire to see more of these games, Broche drew inspiration from iconic titles such as Final Fantasy, Lost Odyssey, and FromSoftware's Sekiro. His vision was to blend strategic combat with skill-based mechanics, creating a fresh experience for RPG enthusiasts.

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 approach, blending turn-based strategy with challenging, unpredictable enemy attacks. Rooted in JRPG traditions, the game stands out with its Belle Epoque-inspired art style, reflecting Sandfall Interactive's commitment to a visually and mechanically unique experience. The game takes cues from classic Final Fantasy titles, 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 (Game8)

March 3

⚫︎ Gaming media outlets had the opportunity to experience playable demos of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 before its launch, and many were captivated by the game's innovative turn-based combat system. This system evolves and combines elements from the greatest JRPGs, offering players a fresh and engaging gameplay 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 release, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is slated for a movie adaptation. Sandfall Interactive has partnered with Story Kitchen, known for their work on game-to-film projects like Sonic and the upcoming Dredge movie. While details on the director and cast are yet to be announced, producers Dmitri M. Johnson, Mike Goldberg, and Elena Sandoval are involved. Story Kitchen is enthusiastic about bringing the game's rich narrative and complex characters to the big screen.

Read more: Clair Obscur is Getting Its Own Live-Action Movie (GameRant)

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. A long-time fan of the genre, Broche sought to craft a turn-based RPG with stunning high-fidelity graphics, merging real-time reaction-based combat with strategic depth. Players can switch party members in the open world and employ traversal abilities to tackle puzzles. Broche expressed his delight at the game's positive reception and encouraged players to experiment with creative builds to "break the game." The development team aspires for Expedition 33 to make a lasting impact, akin to the RPGs that inspired them.

Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Wears Its FF and Persona Influences on Its Sleeves (Game8)

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 17th-18th century French artistic movement, Clair Obscur, and its story influenced by the novel La Horde du Contrevent. Broche highlighted the game's emphasis on high-fidelity visuals and its groundbreaking reactive turn-based battle system. The game integrates elements from Souls games, Devil May Cry, and NieR, aiming to revolutionize traditional turn-based RPG combat.

Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Historical Roots and Innovations (Game8)