Stellar Blade Director Crowns Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as Game of the Year

The turn-based RPG Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is receiving acclaim, even from industry titans. Kim Hyung-tae, director of the highly anticipated Stellar Blade, has publicly lauded Sandfall Interactive's debut title, igniting further Game of the Year buzz. Could this indie gem truly steal the spotlight?

Kim Hyung-tae shared on social media, "I finished Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 in 96 hours, and it's my GOTY! Thank you, Sandfall Interactive!" He even showcased his dedication by earning the game's Platinum Trophy, proving he explored every nook and cranny of its captivating world.

What makes Clair Obscur so special? Its narrative, described as emotionally powerful, draws inspiration from Japanese RPGs like Final Fantasy and the challenging Souls series, infused with a distinct French sensibility. The game centers on Gustave, a character attempting to save a Paris-like city from a grim ritual orchestrated by a mysterious figure known as the Paintress. Each year, she lowers a number on a monolith, causing everyone of that age to vanish, leaving behind only swirling red petals.

Reviewers praise Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 for its challenging turn-based combat, intricate world-building, and compelling characters. The game's development story is also remarkable. Guillaume Broche, formerly of Ubisoft, spearheaded the project, recruiting talent through online forums and Reddit. Jennifer Svedberg-Yen, initially a voice actor for a demo, became the lead writer, and composer Lorien Testard was discovered on Soundcloud, highlighting the unconventional path to creating this acclaimed title.

The game’s success isn’t just critical acclaim; it resonated with players. Clair Obscur sold one million copies in its first three days and even caught the attention of French President Emmanuel Macron.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 boasts impressive production values rivaling AAA titles, thanks to efficient development tools like Unreal Engine and the backing of Kepler Interactive, enabling them to attract talent like Charlie Cox and Andy Serkis. However, the core team remained small, with members wearing multiple hats to bring Broche’s vision to life.

With its captivating narrative, challenging gameplay, and a director of Stellar Blade singing its praises, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is undeniably a contender for Game of the Year. Have you had a chance to experience this indie gem? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

• Clair Obscur
• Sandfall Interactive
• Stellar Blade

Related issues news

Who made Clair Obscur Expedition 33?

(Fair warning: The irascible mimes in this game, by the French developer Sandfall Interactive, are no joke.)

Is Expedition 33 turn based?

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a ground-breaking turn-based RPG with unique real-time mechanics, making battles more immersive and addictive than ever.

Will Expedition 33 get DLC?

Publisher Kepler Interactive and developer Sandfall Interactive have confirmed Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 currently has no DLC planned.

How many copies of Clair Obscur sold?

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has now sold an impressive 2 million copies after 12 days on sale. That's up from the 1 million sold three days after launch. It's worth remembering that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 was, alongside Bethesda's Oblivion Remastered, a day-one Game Pass title.