‘Clair Obscur: Expedition 33' game review

The Hindu

19-05-2025

There are two types of gamers: those who are obsessed with turn-based Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), and those who steer well clear. Today, a close friend of mine, firmly in the latter camp, surprised me by saying they have been drawn into Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the latest turn-based, Final Fantasy-inspired JRPG from a passionate team of French developers. A game so deeply rooted in JRPG tradition, yet since its launch, it has been turning heads, blurring genre boundaries, and drawing in even the most hesitant of players.
Given its rapid virality, it would be easy to dismiss Expedition 33 as just another flash in the pan. But even a cursory glance at the trailers and previews reveals a labour of love, one that pulls you into its mysterious world with a compelling story, inspired and challenging combat, incredible characters, and arguably one of the most memorable narratives in recent gaming history.
Every year, the surviving humans gather for Gommage, a grim ritual in which a towering figure known only as The Paintress paints numbers in the sky. Each number erases everyone of that age from existence. That is where Expedition 33 begins: the number 33 is painted, and the protagonist Gustave is forced to watch his loved ones turn to roses and ash. With heavy hearts, the expedition sets out to end The Paintress, but the journey is anything but simple. Gustave and his companions must traverse a world of eerie beauty and unspeakable horror, one richly inspired by French art.
The game begins in a deceptively light-hearted way, reminiscent of Chrono Trigger, with you meeting a friend at a fair. But things take a dark turn quickly when the number 33 is painted. From that moment, the game has you emotionally invested in Gustave's story. Expedition 33 excels at keeping you at the heart of its narrative filled with grief, hope, and quiet resilience. Despite the odds, its cast clings to hope as they march toward a conclusion that is as satisfying as it is weighty. The Paintress may paint death, but the developers have painted a storytelling masterpiece.
The battle system is a love letter to the best elements of turn-based RPGs. It blends Final Fantasy's materia systems, Persona 5's sleek UI, Mario RPG's timing-based dodges, and even Sekiro's parries into a combat system that is both reactive and precise. The thrill of landing a perfect parry or using a character's unique mechanics to gain the upper hand is immensely rewarding. However, there are moments when the game throws overwhelming multi-hitting enemies at you, occasionally bordering on unfair, forcing you to truly master the mechanics.
Each character has a distinct combat style, ranging from complex to beginner-friendly. For example, Lune generates elemental 'stains' based on her attacks, and chaining specific combinations boosts her damage output. Meanwhile, Maelle, a fan favourite, employs a more straightforward fencing stance system to deal powerful blows. The diverse cast allows players to experiment with different builds before settling on the party that best suits their playstyle.
Clair Obscur Expedition 33
Publisher: Sandfall Interactive, Sandfall S.A.S.
Developer: Kepler Interactive
Price: ₹4,999 on Playstation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PC
Forget Steampunk, Expedition 33 embraces the elegance of the belle époque, a stunning yet ironically chosen aesthetic for a game centred on mass erasure. The world design is exquisite, clearly influenced by French art, history, and architecture. Every environment feels like a painting worthy of framing. Despite its harrowing plot, the game provides moments of peace, allowing players to explore, discover, and engage in well-crafted side quests that genuinely add value.
Visually, Expedition 33 is astonishing. Sandfall Interactive — a relatively small team, many of whom are ex-Ubisoft — have delivered a game that feels AAA in every respect. At a time when even major releases like Star Wars Outlaws launch in rough shape, Expedition 33 stands as a testament to what passion and vision can achieve. While big studios often scoff at turn-based systems in favour of formulaic design, Expedition 33 proves there is a hungry audience for innovation within tradition. As Final Fantasy continues to drift away from its roots, perhaps this game will inspire a return to form.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a triumphant reminder that the JRPG is not only alive but thriving. If you are after a game that is beautiful, intricate, and emotionally resonant, look no further. It is only May, and yet this already feels like a strong contender for Game of the Year, especially with Grand Theft Auto VI sitting out 2025.