Clair Obscur: Uncovering Legacy, Embracing Innovation

Sandfall Interactive's debut title, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, draws inspiration from diverse sources, blending historical influences with innovative gameplay mechanics. This article delves into the game's creative origins and unique battle system.

Real-World Influences and Gameplay Innovation

Title and Narrative Inspiration

Guillaume Broche, founder and creative director of Sandfall Interactive, revealed key inspirations behind Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's name and narrative. "Clair Obscur," referencing the 17th and 18th-century French artistic movement, informs the game's visual style and overarching world. "Expedition 33" refers to a series of expeditions led by protagonist Gustave to defeat the Paintress, a being who uses a process called "Gommage" to erase entire generations by painting numbers on a monolith. The death of Gustave's partner after the Paintress paints the number 33 is a key plot point. Broche also cites the fantasy novel La Horde du Contrevent and works like Attack on Titan as narrative influences, highlighting the appeal of stories about perilous exploration.

A Reimagined Turn-Based RPG

Broche emphasizes the game's commitment to high-fidelity graphics within the turn-based RPG genre, a stylistic choice he felt was largely unexplored. While acknowledging predecessors like Valkyria Chronicles, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 introduces a reactive turn-based combat 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 execute powerful counterattacks. The design is inspired by action games like the Souls series, Devil May Cry, and NieR, aiming to integrate the rewarding gameplay of those titles into a turn-based framework.

Future Outlook

Broche's insights highlight the game's rich lore and unique blend of historical inspiration and innovative gameplay. The combination of high-fidelity visuals and the reactive battle system promises a fresh take on turn-based combat, demanding both strategic planning and real-time reflexes.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is slated for release on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC in 2025. Broche expressed enthusiasm for the positive reception and anticipation surrounding the game, promising more reveals leading up to its launch.