Review: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

A comprehensive look at Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a title that many are calling a "perfect 10/10". While it may not be flawlessly perfect in every technical aspect, it is undeniably a masterpiece that redefines the modern RPG landscape and stands as the strongest contender for Game of the Year 2025.

Background

The buzz surrounding Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has been immense. It is often described as a game that is "too good to be true," especially coming from a debut studio, Sandfall Interactive. The project feels like a direct response to the stagnation of the "Quadruple-A" industry.

Unlike massive commercial products that prioritize monetization over soul, this game was built by former industry veterans (including ex-Ubisoft employees) who wanted to create something they actually wanted to play. The result is a passion project that resonates deeply with gamers, non-gamers, and creatives alike.

Key Motivations:

• Revitalizing the Genre: Proving that turn-based combat isn't dead or "boring".
• Artistic Identity: Utilizing a distinct "French Romanticism" aesthetic rather than generic fantasy tropes.
• Narrative Stakes: Telling a story where characters lack "plot armor"—when they die, they stay dead.
• Musical Excellence: delivering a score so powerful it acts as the game's emotional backbone.

The Genre Problem (And The Solution)

Traditional Turn-Based RPGs often face significant prejudice from modern audiences. As someone who appreciates the genre, I recognize the validity of the common complaints:

The "Sleep-Based" Challenge

Many modern gamers view turn-based combat as "Turu-base" (Sleep-based). The perception is that it lacks engagement:

• Passive Gameplay: Waiting for animations to finish without player input.
• Lack of Tension: Battles can feel like a spreadsheet calculation rather than a fight.
• Repetition: Grinding can become monotonous without dynamic elements.

The Solution: Reactive Turn-Based Combat

Expedition 33 solves this by injecting real-time mechanics into the traditional formula. It’s not just about selecting "Attack" and waiting.

1. The Parry and Dodge System The game introduces active defense. If you time your inputs correctly, you can parry or dodge enemy attacks in real-time. This makes every enemy turn engaging because you are constantly watching for cues. Pulling off a perfect parry is incredibly satisfying.

2. Flexible Playstyles The system accommodates different types of players:

• The Hardcore Gamer: You can beat the game (and bosses like Simon with his three swords) purely on skill, parrying everything without needing to over-level.
• The RPG Strategist: If your reaction time isn't perfect, you can still rely on traditional builds, leveling, and "Pictos" (gear/skills) to tank hits and overpower enemies.

Aesthetic & Narrative

Visuals: French Romanticism

The art direction is a breath of fresh air. While we have seen countless games inspired by Medieval England, feudal Japan, or ancient Greece, Expedition 33 is unapologetically French.

• Paris Influence: The architecture, the fashion, and the "bent Eiffel Tower" imagery create a unique atmosphere.
• Character Design: The costumes are stunning—specifically for characters like Gustav and Lune—sparking a desire to cosplay them immediately.

The Story

Even for players who typically prioritize gameplay over narrative (like myself, a huge Elden Ring fan), this story hits hard. It succeeds because it has genuine stakes.

• No Plot Armor: The narrative isn't afraid to kill off main characters permanently. The death of Gustav, for example, is a pivotal moment that proves the writers aren't afraid to hurt the player to advance the plot.
• Emotional Weight: Combined with the visual and audio presentation, the journey of "The Expédition" feels heavy and significant.

Technical Challenges & Critiques

Despite being a Game of the Year contender, the game is not without its flaws. Honest criticism is necessary to highlight where the sequel or updates can improve.

Challenge 1: Exploration Issues

• Problem: The world design, while beautiful, suffers from "invisible walls" and confusing traversal logic. Sometimes you can jump off a ledge; other times, an invisible barrier stops you.
• Impact: It discourages exploration. Finding a secret path often leads to unrewarding loot (like small amounts of currency) that isn't worth the effort, making the world feel like a hallway rather than a playground.

Challenge 2: UI/UX Clutter

• Problem: Managing "Pictos" and "Lumiere" becomes tedious later in the game.
• Impact: As your collection grows, finding the specific skill or item you need is difficult due to poor sorting options (mostly alphabetical). It forces players to scroll endlessly through menus.

Challenge 3: The "Reserve Team"

• Problem: You have a party of characters, but those in the backline (reserve) are essentially AFK.
• Solution Wanted: It would have been better if reserve characters provided passive buffs, team combos, or some interaction other than just waiting for a frontline member to die.

Conclusion

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a triumph. It is a reminder to the industry that games built with passion and a clear vision will always resonate more than those built by committee.

Despite a few frustrations with exploration and UI, the core loop of combat, the breathtaking French aesthetic, and the heartbreakingly beautiful music make it an unforgettable experience. If the soundtrack doesn't sweep the awards season, it will be a crime.

This is 2025's Game of the Year, no doubt about it.

For those who come after.