Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 adds dazzling French flair to classic RPG formula
Role-playing video games (RPGs) have long been a staple of the gaming world, often drawing inspiration from classic Dungeons & Dragons campaigns where a group of adventurers sets off on a quest for glory. However, the debut game from French studio Sandfall Interactive, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, takes a bold and unique approach right from the start.
The game opens in Lumière, a city that bears a striking resemblance to Paris, where we meet Sophie, a reflective young woman who, like all 33-year-olds in the city, is facing imminent death. The city is plagued by a curse where every year, a godlike being known as The Paintress awakens to repaint a giant stone monolith with a new number, causing everyone that age to vanish into dust and rose petals. Lumière’s population is slowly dwindling, with the age of those affected decreasing each year.
As Sophie’s partner Gustave (voiced by Charlie Cox) sets out on a desperate expedition to kill The Paintress and break the curse, players are thrust into a world where the stakes are impossibly dire from the get-go. The game’s writers and actors approach the dark premise with a serious tone, immersing players in a world on the brink of extinction.
The voice cast, which includes recognizable names like Andy Serkis, Jennifer English, and Ben Starr, bring depth and emotion to the characters, portraying individuals who have grown up knowing their fate and are determined to make the most of their remaining time.
While the game delves into some unfortunate tropes, such as the portrayal of beautiful heroes and scarred antagonists, it also breaks free from traditional archetypes to create complex and compelling characters that evolve over the course of the game.
In terms of gameplay, Expedition 33 features turn-based combat reminiscent of classic Japanese RPGs like Final Fantasy and Persona. Players must strategize and react to enemy attacks, utilizing each character’s unique abilities to overcome challenges. The combat system incorporates timed button prompts for attacks and dodges, adding an element of skill and precision to battles.
The world of Clair Obscur is a fantastical blend of French architecture, lush forests, and post-apocalyptic landscapes, creating a visually stunning and immersive setting. The art direction draws inspiration from traditional French art and film, combining elements of fantasy with Belle Epoque elegance.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a testament to Sandfall Interactive’s creativity and innovation, offering a fresh take on the RPG genre with its unique premise, engaging characters, and challenging gameplay. This game is a must-play for fans of the genre and promises to leave a lasting impression on those who embark on this perilous journey.
