Clair Obscur: Homage and Originality in Expedition 33

Sandfall Interactive's upcoming turn-based RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, is making waves with its unique blend of classic and modern RPG elements. Inspired by the Belle Epoque and drawing heavily from iconic titles like Final Fantasy and Persona, the game promises a fresh take on the genre.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – A Nostalgic Journey with Modern Flair

Turn-Based Combat with Real-Time Reactions

The game seamlessly integrates turn-based strategy with real-time action elements. Players issue commands in a turn-based system, but must also react quickly to enemy attacks, adding a layer of dynamic challenge reminiscent of Persona, Final Fantasy, and Sea of Stars.

Following a successful demo at SGF, creative director Guillaume Broche discussed the game's inspirations. A lifelong fan of turn-based RPGs, Broche aimed to create a title with high-fidelity visuals, filling a gap he felt existed in the market. He cited Persona and Octopath Traveler as key influences, highlighting their stylish aesthetics and nostalgic appeal.

The narrative centers around preventing the enigmatic Paintress from unleashing death once more. The game's environments, including the gravity-defying Flying Waters, promise to be as captivating as the story itself.

Broche emphasized the significant influence of the Final Fantasy series (specifically FFVIII, IX, and X) on the game's core mechanics, while acknowledging Persona's impact on camera work, menus, and dynamic presentation. However, he stressed that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is not a direct imitation but rather a reflection of his personal experiences with these classic titles.

The open world allows for seamless character switching and unique traversal abilities to solve environmental puzzles. Broche encourages players to experiment with different character builds and combinations, aiming for a game that is both challenging and rewarding. The development team hopes to create a game that resonates with players as deeply as the classics did with them.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is slated for release on PC, PS5, and Xbox in 2025.