Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is an RPG with an unconventional approach to visual style, narrative, and combat system. Developed by the French studio Sandfall Interactive, the game was released on April 24, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. It blends a surreal atmosphere with turn-based gameplay reminiscent of classic JRPGs like Final Fantasy, but also includes elements similar to the Persona series.

The World

The game's world is built around a haunting concept: every year, a mysterious Painter writes a new number — and anyone older than that number disappears. You play as a member of Expedition 33 — the final squad tasked with stopping this fatal process and saving what remains of humanity. The story is complex and rich in philosophical themes, including fatalism, the struggle against death, and the idea of art as a weapon. This narrative may feel abstract or even elitist at times, but for those who appreciate deep storytelling, it’s a true gem.

Gameplay

The game uses a turn-based combat system that combines classic strategic elements with real-time reactive mechanics. At first glance, it may seem familiar, but the added twist of timed button presses for attacks, blocks, and dodges creates an engaging effect. This makes battles more dynamic, though they sometimes resemble a series of mini-games.

Each character has unique abilities, and the progression system allows you to alter combat styles and unlock new tactics. Enemies are challenging, with original attack patterns — especially the bosses, who require a deep understanding of the mechanics. The game is unforgiving, and the difficulty may pose a challenge even for experienced players.

Visual Style

Clair Obscur lives up to its name — "light and shadow." Visually, it impresses from the very first moments. The art style fuses impressionism, gothic elements, and post-apocalyptic aesthetics, creating the effect of a living painting. Nearly every scene looks like a work of art — it's an aesthetic experience that surpasses the boundaries of traditional gaming.

The camera operates like a painter’s lens, shifting angles for emotional impact, and character animations are smooth and theatrical. Characters are styled like 19th-century figures, with elaborate costumes and expressive facial animations. The monsters, meanwhile, are hybrids of biomechanics and symbolism, each embodying a unique theme that often reflects the philosophical undertones of the story.

Soundtrack

The music in the game isn’t just background — it’s a full-fledged narrative tool. The orchestral, atmospheric soundtrack incorporates electronic and choral elements. Melancholic compositions accompany quiet scenes, while tense rhythms highlight climactic moments — all of which enhance the emotional depth of the story and characters.

Weak Points

Despite its strengths, the game has a few drawbacks. The story progression can sometimes feel too slow — especially in lengthy dialogue scenes that lean into theatricality. The interface and navigation aren't always intuitive, which can make the early hours more difficult. Combat difficulty is also a point of contention — the balance isn’t always consistent, and newcomers might find it overwhelming.

Final Verdict

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 isn’t for everyone. It demands focus, patience, and a willingness to dive into a surreal and tragic world. But for those who appreciate experimental projects, this RPG may be a true revelation. It's a game about art, death, and hope — as beautiful as it is painful. It offers a unique experience unlike any other RPG.

8/10