The Esoteric Ruins are among the most challenging and atmospheric zones in the game. They consist of a tangled labyrinth, a series of orb-based puzzles, and several hidden rewards. Below is a step-by-step walkthrough for fully exploring this area.

How to Find the Entrance to the Esoteric Ruins

The location is found in the Old Lumière zone, which becomes accessible after progressing through a certain point in the main story—specifically, after meeting the Neurons and unlocking free exploration of the region.

Start from the Expedition Flag in the western part of Old Lumière. Follow the main stone path past a ruined chapel, keeping an eye out for a tall arch and leaning obelisks. At the crossroads with a broken cart, turn left and descend. The path will lead you to an overgrown gate with rubble—this is the entrance. Near it, you'll encounter Portier, a representative of the white Neurons. He will explain the nature of the ruins and allow you to enter if you have the corresponding quest active.

If the entrance remains locked, ensure you have an active quest related to Portier or the exploration of Old Lumière.

Navigating the Labyrinth

1. Initial Orientation

Upon entering the ruins, you'll see a glowing pillar. Turn your back to it, face right, and proceed through all open doors.

2. Orb Activation Sequence

To progress through the labyrinth, you must shoot the orbs in reverse order. Each subsequent orb activates by shooting the one before it.

• In the first room, shoot the orb to open the left passage.
• In the second room, turn back and activate the orb from the first room.
• In the third room, activate the orb from the second room.
• In the fourth, the orb from the third room.
• In the fifth, the orb from the fourth room.
• In the sixth, the orb from the fifth room.
• In the seventh, the orb from the sixth room.
• In the eighth, the orb from the seventh room.
• In the ninth, the orb from the eighth room.
• In the tenth chamber, activate the orb from the ninth room.

This sequence will unlock the exit from the labyrinth.

Collecting Wooden Planks

After exiting the labyrinth, you’ll find wooden planks. Take them and return to the entrance. Portier will exchange the planks for the "Protective Healing" Pictogram, which adds a shield for one turn when healing an ally.

Unlocking the Paint Cage

Once the labyrinth is completed, you’ll gain access to the Paint Cage, which contains 4,990 Chroma. To open it, you must find and destroy three locks:

• The first lock is behind a ruined structure near the labyrinth entrance.
• The second is inside a crevice on the slope leading to the Cage.
• The third is to the left of the ruins' entrance, in the corner.

After destroying all three, you’ll be able to open the Cage and claim the reward.

Portier and Story Choice

Upon completing Portier’s quest, you’ll have to decide his fate. If you do not attack any white Neurons, you’ll receive 100 Lumi Colors from Blanche. If you attack Portier or others, Blanche will only give you 10 Lumi Colors and 2 Grand Chroma Catalysts after the fight.

Tips

• Save progress at Expedition Flags — this allows fast travel and recovery.
• Explore all rooms carefully to avoid missing hidden Pictograms or resources.

This guide will help you successfully explore one of the most mysterious zones in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, earning valuable rewards for your attentiveness and cleverness.