April 23rd 2025.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a game that beautifully blends the old and the new, creating a unique and enjoyable experience. While it may sound like a typical Japanese role-playing game, it may come as a surprise that this gem is actually developed by a French indie studio, Sandfall Interactive. And let me tell you, calling it an indie title does not do it justice - the ambition and graphical splendor of this game are truly remarkable.
The team behind this game has openly expressed their love for Final Fantasy 7, but they have taken it to a whole new level with Clair Obscur. The game's story is one of its strongest aspects, centered around a god-like being known as the Paintress. Every year, she draws a number on a giant monolith, and anyone over that age mysteriously disappears in a shower of flower petals. The protagonist, Gustave, is 33 years old, but his former lover, who is 34, is about to be painted. This may sound like a silly premise, but within minutes of starting the game, the serious tone and thought-provoking themes of loss and legacy draw you in.
The survivors of the Paintress's annual event live on a fractured island that resembles Paris, with its Belle Époque architecture and fashion. The game also explores the theme of building upon the efforts and sacrifices of those who came before us, both in terms of family and art. This idea is reflected in the game's meta level, as the main objective is to embark on an expedition to the mainland and find a way to stop the Paintress - an endeavor that has been attempted many times before by different groups, with no success.
The exploration aspect of Clair Obscur is where its similarities to late 90s Japanese role-playing games are most evident. The map of the wider world is explored with a giant-sized avatar of the party leader, and there are various mini-games and wacky enemy designs reminiscent of that era. However, the game also has its own unique elements, such as the complex skill trees and items called Pictos, which can buff stats and change status effects. The only downside is that the menu for organizing these items can be a bit messy, along with some other interface elements.
The combat system of Clair Obscur is where the game truly shines. It is a turn-based system with a strong action element inspired by games like Paper Mario. In addition to timing your attacks and defenses, there are also dodging, countering, and parrying mechanics that require serious action skills to master. The enemies and their various moves and tells keep the player on their toes, creating an engaging and challenging experience.
Each party member has unique skills and abilities, and they can team up in interesting ways to create long chains of attacks. This is vital in the numerous boss battles, which are anything but bullet sponges. Each boss requires a specific approach and multiple tactics, making for a versatile and enjoyable battle system. And let's not forget the beautiful boss designs, which add to the game's overall stunning visuals.
Speaking of visuals, Clair Obscur boasts a beautiful art design that is very French in its influences and atmosphere. While the technical aspects may not be top-notch, the game's aesthetic is truly stunning and sets it apart from the typical role-playing game.
In conclusion, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a game that should not be missed by any RPG fan. With its unique blend of old and new elements, thought-provoking themes, and versatile combat system, it stands out as one of the most enjoyable RPGs of the modern era. And despite being developed by a French indie studio, it holds its own against some of the best Japanese role-playing games out there. Give it a try, and you won't be disappointed.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a breathtaking blend of old and new elements that has captured the hearts of gamers around the world. While it may come as a surprise, this beloved Japanese-style role-playing game is actually the brainchild of a French indie studio, Sandfall Interactive. With its captivating storyline and innovative gameplay, this game stands out as one of the most thought-provoking and enjoyable JRPGs of our time.
When discussing Japanese role-playing games, there is often a debate about whether the term refers to a specific genre or simply a game's country of origin. However, one thing is certain: there are numerous titles that share similar gameplay mechanics and structures with Japanese-made games. From obvious tributes like Sea of Stars to Ubisoft's South Park series, it is undeniable that the influence of JRPGs can be seen in many games.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a prime example of this. With its turn-based combat, exploration, and overall structure, it fits the criteria of a JRPG perfectly. However, to label it as simply an indie game would be a disservice. With its ambitious scope and stunning graphics, it is clear that this game is something special.
The team at Sandfall Interactive has openly expressed their admiration for Final Fantasy 7, but they have taken inspiration to a whole new level with Clair Obscur. This game not only pays homage to its predecessors, but also creates a unique and unforgettable experience that stands on its own.
At the heart of this fantastical tale is the mysterious Paintress, a god-like being who chooses a number each year and causes anyone above that age to disappear. While her motives are unknown, it is clear that the numbers are dwindling and the tension continues to rise. Amidst this chaos, we follow the story of Gustave, a 33-year-old man whose former lover is on the brink of being taken by the Paintress. The game's serious tone and poignant themes of loss and legacy draw players in from the very beginning.
As we journey through the game's beautifully crafted world, we are reminded of the inevitable cycle of life and the impact we leave behind. The survivors of the Paintress reside on an island that mirrors the city of Paris, complete with its iconic Eiffel Tower. It is a world full of Belle Époque style architecture and fashion, reminiscent of the beloved game, Life is Strange.
The main objective of the game is to embark on an expedition to the mainland, a task that has been attempted by many before, but with no success. This mission symbolizes the idea of building upon the efforts of those who came before us, a theme that is carried through not only in the game's story, but also in its gameplay.
Exploring the vast world with a giant-sized avatar of our party leader is a nod to classic JRPGs, as are the mini-games and unique enemy designs. While Clair Obscur may have its whimsical moments, the depth of its role-playing systems cannot be ignored. With complex skill trees and items called Pictos, players must strategize and make use of buffs and status effects to gain an advantage in battles. However, the menu for organizing these items can be a bit overwhelming, as can some of the other interface elements.
One of the game's standout features is its combat system, which is turn-based but also incorporates elements of action games like Paper Mario. Players must not only time their attacks and defenses correctly, but also dodge, counter, and parry in order to be successful. The game takes this concept to a whole new level, with each enemy having unique tells and faints that require precise action skills to overcome.
While dodging may seem like the easiest option, players are not rewarded for it and it is often better to try and counter an attack. However, some enemies have unblockable attacks, reminiscent of the popular game, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. But fear not, as the game offers multiple difficulty levels and settings to suit players of all skill levels.
Each party member has their own distinctive skills, from Gustave's Overcharge ability to Lune's elemental magic. The characters can also team up with each other, creating powerful combos that are essential in defeating the challenging boss battles. These epic showdowns require players to utilize different tactics at different times, showcasing the game's versatility and dynamic gameplay.
Not only are the boss battles visually stunning, but the game as a whole boasts stunning graphics and a uniquely French atmosphere. The art design is top-notch, although the technical aspects may not be as polished. Nonetheless, Clair Obscur stands out as a beautiful and refreshing addition to the role-playing genre.
In conclusion, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a game that defies expectations and offers players a truly unforgettable experience. With its gripping storyline, innovative gameplay, and stunning visuals, it is a must-play for fans of JRPGs and gamers alike.
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