Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – A Unique RPG Blending NASA Inspiration, French Flair, and Stellar Voice Acting

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is making waves in the gaming world, and it's not hard to see why. This idiosyncratic RPG from Sandfall Interactive isn't just another cookie-cutter fantasy game; it's a unique blend of inspirations, from NASA simulations to French artistry, all wrapped up in a compelling narrative and engaging gameplay.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Clair Obscur is its origin story. Writer Jennifer Svedberg-Yen drew inspiration from an unexpected source: a NASA simulation where she played an analog astronaut. This experience shaped the game's character lineup, rethinking classic RPG party types with a focus on diverse skills and personalities, much like a real-world expedition crew.

"I did a brief NASA simulation where I was an analog astronaut," Svedberg-Yen tells Polygon. "I was simulating a mission to an asteroid at NASA’s compound in Houston. And as part of that, I got to experience being part of a small [crew]. And so I did base some of my thinking around what kind of people you would send on an expedition where it’s not necessarily all military."

But Clair Obscur is more than just a clever concept. It's also earning praise for its stellar voice acting, featuring the talents of Charlie Cox (Daredevil) and Jennifer English (Baldur’s Gate 3). The game's commitment to emotionally mature storytelling and authentic performances sets it apart from many of its contemporaries. According to A.V. Club, the editing and performances "feels more like natural speech than the stilted 'I say my line, now you say your line' manner of so much video game dialogue."

The game's premise is equally captivating: in a belle époque-inspired world, a sinister entity called the Paintress daubs a number on a distant totem every year, descending from 100. Every person of that age then dissolves into petals and dust. The game follows an expedition of brave thirtysomethings as they attempt to stop the cycle.

Rock Paper Shotgun notes that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 isn’t that a small team has made a successful game, it’s that a small team has made the most extravagantly French thing any of us will ever play. Much to my partner’s annoyance, I’ve set the voice language to French with English subtitles, just to enhance the immersion.

The combat system in Clair Obscur is inspired by classic and modern Japanese RPGs, offering a rhythmic and flashy experience that rewards strategic thinking and well-timed button presses. Combining the unique abilities of your characters is key to success.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 stands out for its distinctiveness and determination to say something meaningful. It's a baroque fantasy that tells a story about fatalism, love, death, and legacy, reminding us of the importance of fresh ideas and creative ambition in the gaming industry.

Have you had a chance to experience the unique world of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33? What are your thoughts on its blend of influences and its approach to storytelling? Share your comments below!

• Charlie Cox
• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
• Sandfall Interactive

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How does Expedition 33 end?

Act 1 of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 ends with the shocking death of protagonist Gustave. Jennifer Svedberg-Yen revealed that the surprising story moment was actually planned far in advance. “We knew that from the beginning.

How many endings does expedition 33 have?

That said, after finishing the game and rolling credits, you can reload your save to spawn in right before the final choice, if you'd like to see both endings. There are two endings to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33: Maelle's ending. Verso's ending.

Who is the final boss of Expedition 33?

When players are brought back to the Cavas and reunited with Expedition 33, the story presents players with the seemingly time-sensitive task of stopping the real Renoir before he destroys the Canvas.