Clair Obscur: Rooted and Innovative in Expedition 33

Sandfall Interactive's creative director, Guillaume Broche, recently unveiled key details about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, highlighting its historical inspirations and innovative gameplay mechanics. Discover the fascinating blend of history and gaming innovation below.

Historical Influences and Gameplay Revolution

Name and Narrative Origins

The game's name, "Clair Obscur," draws inspiration from a 17th- and 18th-century French artistic and cultural movement, significantly impacting the game's visual style and overarching world.

"Expedition 33" refers to a series of expeditions led by protagonist Gustave to defeat the Paintress. Each year, a new expedition attempts this goal. The Paintress uses a monolith to erase individuals from existence, a process Broche calls "the Gommage." The reveal trailer depicts the protagonist's partner perishing after the Paintress targets age 33.

Broche cites La Horde du Contrevent (a fantasy novel about explorers) and works like Attack on Titan as narrative inspirations, highlighting his fascination with tales of perilous journeys into the unknown.

A Modern Twist on Classic Turn-Based RPGs

Broche emphasizes the game's commitment to high-fidelity graphics within the turn-based RPG genre, a relatively unexplored territory. While real-time elements exist in games like Valkyria Chronicles, Clair Obscur introduces a reactive turn-based combat system. Players strategize during their turn, but must react in real-time to enemy actions during the opponent's turn, dodging, jumping, or parrying to unleash powerful counterattacks.

The game's innovative combat design is inspired by action titles such as the Souls series, Devil May Cry, and NieR, aiming to replicate their rewarding gameplay loop within a turn-based framework.

Looking Ahead

Broche's insights reveal a game rich in lore and narrative depth, drawing inspiration from historical movements and celebrated works of fiction. The combination of stunning visuals and the unique reactive battle system promises a fresh and engaging experience. Players will need to plan strategically between turns while also reacting dynamically to enemy attacks.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is slated for release on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC in 2025. Despite the wait, Broche expresses his team's enthusiasm for the positive reception and eagerness to share more in the coming year.