Clair Obscur Expedition 33 is an exciting new turn-based RPG that has been capturing the attention of gamers since its reveal at the Xbox Games Showcase in June 2024. Developed by Sandfall Interactive, a studio founded by Ubisoft veterans, this ambitious title promises to bring a fresh perspective to the RPG genre with its unique blend of fantasy and European “Belle Époque” art influences.
Release Windows and Platforms
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is set to launch in 2025 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. The game will also be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one, making it easily accessible to subscribers of Microsoft’s popular gaming service.
Stunning Visuals and Art Style
One of the most striking aspects of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is its breathtaking visual presentation. The game utilizes Unreal Engine 5 to create a photorealistic world inspired by French and Parisian art and architecture. Character models are particularly impressive, thanks to the use of Epic’s Metahuman technology, which allows for highly detailed and expressive faces.
Gameplay Features
Turn-Based Combat with a Twist
While Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is primarily a turn-based RPG, it introduces several innovative mechanics to keep combat engaging and dynamic:
- QTE-based attacks: Players can input timed button prompts during attacks to deal bonus damage.
- Free-aim system: Characters can target specific weak points on enemies for increased effectiveness.
- Real-time defensive actions: Players can dodge, parry, and counter enemy attacks with precise timing.
Exploration and Puzzle-Solving
Outside of combat, players have full control over their party members in the open world. Each character possesses unique traversal abilities that can be used to solve environmental puzzles and access hidden areas.
Character Customization
The game features a deep customization system, allowing players to fine-tune their characters’ stat growth, skill trees, and gear. Additionally, a wide range of learnable passive traits provides endless opportunities to create unique builds and strategies.
Story and Setting
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 takes place in a mysterious world where a being known as the Paintress awakens once a year to paint a cursed number on a monolith. This number represents the age at which people will turn to smoke and fade away. As the story begins, the Paintress is about to paint the number 33.
Players take on the role of Gustave, an engineer who leads an expedition to stop the Paintress and break the cycle of death. Accompanied by companions like the scholar Lune and Gustave’s foster sister Maelle, the team must retrace the steps of previous failed expeditions while battling various enemies and overcoming obstacles.
Conclusion
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is shaping up to be an ambitious and visually stunning RPG that aims to breathe new life into the turn-based genre. With its unique art style, innovative combat mechanics, and intriguing storyline, it’s a title to watch out for when it releases in 2025.
FAQs:
- Q: What platforms will Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 be available on?
A: The game will be released for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. - Q: When is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 scheduled to release?
A: The game is set to launch sometime in 2025. - Q: Who is developing Clair Obscur: Expedition 33?
A: The game is being developed by Sandfall Interactive, a studio founded by former Ubisoft developers. - Q: What type of game is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33?
A: It’s a turn-based RPG with real-time elements and a focus on exploration and puzzle-solving. - Q: Will Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 be available on Xbox Game Pass?
A: Yes, the game will be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one of its release.
