The world of role-playing games has a new must-play title with the launch of the turn-based RPG Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the debut game from French indie studio Sandfall Interactive, published by Kepler Interactive. Available now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S (including Game Pass), and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, Expedition 33 is making waves despite releasing in close proximity to the highly anticipated Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered.
Check out the official launch trailer followed by more details about the turn-based RPG down below:
Set in a beautifully imagined fantasy world inspired by Belle Époque-era France, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 blends emotional narrative depth with a distinctive art direction and powerful voice acting. The cast includes notable talent such as Charlie Cox, Jennifer English, Ben Starr, and Andy Serkis, delivering performances in both English and French.
The game introduces a reactive turn-based battle system that merges strategy and action in a fresh way, drawing comparisons to Persona and even Sekiro for its parry-heavy combat and intensity. Combined with deep character customization, a narrative-driven world map, and challenging side content, Expedition 33 aims to capture both traditional JRPG fans and those seeking modern innovations.
Critics have responded with resounding praise. On Metacritic, the game boasts impressive scores: 95/100 on Xbox, 92/100 on PC and PS5, earning it the coveted “must-play” label. IGN rated it a 90/100, applauding its hybrid combat and emotional story. GamesRadar matched that score, writing:
"Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is an outstanding visionary debut from Sandfall Interactive, which isn't merely a love letter to JRPGs but builds on its traditions with a distinctly French identity... one of the most exciting and rewarding action and turn-based hybrid battle systems ever devised, while putting you through the emotional wringer."
Beyond its core experience, Clair Obscur offers a Digital Deluxe Edition on all platforms, which includes the "Flowers" Collection, a "Clair" custom outfit for Maelle, and an "Obscur" custom outfit for Gustave, giving players a stylish way to dive deeper into the game's universe.
With its visionary art style, compelling characters, and genre-defying mechanics, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 stands tall among 2025’s best games and may well be remembered as a landmark moment in modern RPG design for smaller studios.
Will you be picking this game up on Game Pass or purchasing it straight? Do you enjoy turn-based RPGs? Let us know your thoughts on the game and article below!
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