Historical Roots, Modern Discoveries: Expedition 33's Legacy

Sandfall Interactive's creative director, Guillaume Broche, recently unveiled key details about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, highlighting its historical inspirations and innovative gameplay mechanics. This article delves into the game's design influences and unique approach to turn-based combat.

Real-World Influences and Gameplay Innovations

Title and Narrative Inspiration

Broche explained that the game's title, Clair Obscur, draws inspiration from a 17th-18th century French artistic and cultural movement, influencing both the game's art style and overarching world. Expedition 33 refers to a series of yearly expeditions led by protagonist Gustave to defeat the Paintress, a being who uses a process called "Gommage" to erase people from existence by painting a number on her monolith. The trailer reveals the death of Gustave's partner after the Paintress paints the number 33, her current age. Broche cited La Horde du Contrevent (a fantasy novel about explorers) and Attack on Titan (for its themes of venturing into the unknown) as narrative inspirations.

Reimagining Turn-Based RPGs

Broche emphasized the game's commitment to high-fidelity graphics in a genre often lacking them. While acknowledging previous real-time turn-based RPGs like Valkyria Chronicles, Clair Obscur introduces a reactive turn-based battle system. Players strategize during their turn, but must react in real-time to enemy actions during the opponent's turn, dodging, jumping, or parrying to trigger powerful counterattacks. The design draws inspiration from action games like the Souls series, Devil May Cry, and NieR, aiming to integrate their rewarding combat into a turn-based framework.

Future Outlook

Broche's insights reveal a game deeply rooted in historical and literary influences, while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of the turn-based RPG genre. The combination of high-fidelity visuals and a reactive combat system promises a fresh and engaging experience.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is slated for release on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC in 2025. Broche expressed excitement about the positive reception and anticipation for the game's launch.