Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is set in a dark fantasy interpretation of the Belle Époque era Paris. In this world, a mysterious figure known as “The Paintress” annually paints a number, and all individuals of that age subsequently vanish. This grim cycle sparks a desperate fight for survival, prompting the launch of expeditions to halt the annihilation. The game follows the thirty-third of these expeditions, allowing players to switch between several different characters at will. The world is fraught with peril, and the pursuit of answers is far from straightforward.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a turn-based role-playing game developed by the French studio Sandfall Interactive, a relatively new entrant in the industry. As their debut title, it presents an impressive foundation. Sandfall Interactive clearly draws inspiration from classic Japanese role-playing games. Influences from Final Fantasy, Devil May Cry, and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice are readily apparent. Despite being a French studio, they have crafted a game that, in many aspects, feels more Japanese than European, especially in the combat system and dialogue delivery. A notable feature is the ability to parry or dodge during combat, enhancing player engagement during enemy turns. Each character possesses unique abilities and weaponry, ranging from swords and pistols to diverse magical skills that prove effective in battle.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s primary strength lies in the compelling and imaginative world crafted by the developers. The narrative also presents a unique and engaging experience. Each character encountered has their own distinct story, and the game explores both the admirable and less appealing aspects of the protagonists. While the turn-based combat system might initially feel restrictive, the inclusion of defensive maneuvers like parrying and dodging enhances the dynamism and enjoyment of battles.
However, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 does possess certain drawbacks that slightly impact the overall experience. Despite the strengths of the world and story, the presentation can occasionally lean towards excessive theatricality. The dialogue can become somewhat stilted, a common trait in Japanese games that doesn’t always translate seamlessly.
The game’s linearity also limits environmental exploration, which is unfortunate given the exceptional quality of the environments. Furthermore, the music can become repetitive and somewhat grating over time.
In summary, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 represents a commendable debut from Sandfall Interactive. The developers effectively blend French storytelling with Japanese game mechanics. The game’s unique aesthetic, mechanics, and narrative are noteworthy. While the identified drawbacks exist, they do not overshadow the overall positive impression. Personal preferences aside, a more open and less linear world exploration would have been appreciated.
Sandfall Interactive provided a review code for this evaluation. Provision of materials does not influence our editorial process.
