"Clair Obscur Expedition 33: Latest Updates"

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 News

2025

April 3

⚫︎ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is set to offer PC players a variety of graphical presets ranging from Low to Epic, while console users can choose between Performance and Quality modes. The game is confirmed to be PS5 Pro Enhanced, although specific details about the enhancements remain under wraps. 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 game 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 forgo a minimap, opting instead for a compass to guide players. Producer Francois Meurisse explained that this choice was made to foster a sense of exploration, aligning with the game's narrative where players join an expedition into the unknown, following in the footsteps of failed explorers. "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 characters in the game.

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, initiated the project in 2019 out of a deep passion for turn-based RPGs. Feeling a void in the genre, Broche drew inspiration from classics like Final Fantasy, Lost Odyssey, and FromSoftware's Sekiro to create a game that blends strategic combat with skill-based mechanics.

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 an interview, producer Francois Meurisse discussed Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's unique fusion of turn-based strategy and challenging enemy attacks that break from traditional timing. Rooted in JRPG traditions, the game stands out with its Belle Epoque-inspired art style, showcasing Sandfall Interactive's vision for a visually and mechanically unique experience. It takes cues from classic Final Fantasy titles while integrating real-time defensive mechanics inspired by Sekiro and action point-based skills from deckbuilders.

Read more: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is Sekiro Meets Belle Époque Meets JRPG

March 3

⚫︎ Ahead of its release, gaming media were provided with playable demos of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers praised the game's turn-based combat for its innovative approach, successfully combining elements from various iconic JRPGs into a fresh and engaging 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 has secured a movie adaptation. Sandfall Interactive has teamed up with Story Kitchen, the studio behind adaptations like Sonic and the upcoming Dredge film. Although no director or cast has been announced yet, the project is led by producers Dmitri M. Johnson, Mike Goldberg, and Elena Sandoval. Story Kitchen is eager to bring the game's compelling narrative and intricate 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 influences from Final Fantasy VIII-X, Persona, and Octopath Traveler. As a dedicated fan of the genre, Broche aimed to create a turn-based RPG with stunning high-fidelity graphics, integrating real-time reaction-based combat with strategic depth. Players can switch party members in the open world and utilize traversal abilities to solve puzzles. Broche was thrilled by the game's positive reception and hopes players will experiment with creative builds to "break the game." 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 from 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. Influences from Souls games, Devil May Cry, and NieR are integrated to modernize the turn-based RPG combat experience.

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