Sandfall Interactive's upcoming turn-based RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, is making waves with its unique blend of classic and modern RPG elements. Following a successful demo, the game's director has revealed key inspirations behind its design.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – A Modern Take on Classic JRPGs
Turn-Based Combat with Real-Time Reactions
Set against the backdrop of Belle Epoque France, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 masterfully combines turn-based strategy with real-time action. Heavily influenced by genre giants like Final Fantasy and Persona, the game aims to create a fresh, exciting experience.
Creative director Guillaume Broche, in an interview with Eurogamer, shared his passion for turn-based combat and the desire to create a visually stunning title in this style. He cited Persona (Atlus) and Octopath Traveler (Square Enix) as stylistic inspirations, explaining his motivation: "If nobody wants to do it, I will do it."
The game's narrative centers around preventing a mysterious antagonist, the Paintress, from unleashing death once more. Players will explore unique environments, such as the gravity-defying Flying Waters, while engaging in combat that demands both strategic planning and quick reflexes. While turn-based, players must react in real-time to enemy attacks, a feature drawing comparisons to Persona, Final Fantasy, and Sea of Stars.
Broche expressed surprise at the overwhelmingly positive reception, stating, "I wasn't expecting this community to be that excited."
While acknowledging Persona's influence on aspects like camera movement and dynamic menus, Broche emphasized the significant impact of the Final Fantasy series (specifically FFVIII, IX, and X) on the game's core design philosophy to PC Gamer. He clarified that the game isn't a direct imitation but rather a reflection of his personal experiences and tastes shaped by these classics. The team aimed for a unique art style and dynamic feel while still paying homage to its inspirations.
Exploration in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's open world offers complete character control, allowing players to seamlessly switch between party members and utilize unique traversal skills to solve environmental puzzles. Broche even encourages players to experiment with unconventional strategies, stating his hope that players will "break the game with crazy builds."
The development team's ambition is clear: to create a game that resonates with players as deeply as the classics influenced them. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is slated for release on PC, PS5, and Xbox in 2025.
