Sandfall Interactive has unveiled exciting new details about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, including its release date, character roster, and innovative gameplay mechanics, during Xbox's Developer Direct. Dive into the world of this eagerly awaited game!
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 In-Depth Information Unveiled
Put an End to the Paintress's Madness This April 2025
Immerse yourself in a fantasy realm inspired by "Belle Epoque France" with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, set to launch on April 24, 2025. This announcement came during Xbox's Developer Direct, where Sandfall Interactive showcased how they've reimagined classic turn-based combat from the ground up. Excitingly, the game will be available on day one with Xbox Game Pass.
Pre-order options include the base game for $44.99 or the Deluxe Edition for $59.99 on the Xbox Store. For those on Steam and PS5, enjoy a 10% discount on both editions, priced at $44.99 and $53.99 respectively. The game is currently available for wishlisting on the Epic Games Store.
The Steam discount ends on May 2, 2025, while the PlayStation discount is valid until the game’s release date at 3:00 PM (local time). Note that PS5 players need a PlayStation Plus subscription to avail of this introductory price.
Alongside the release date, Sandfall Interactive shared detailed insights into the game’s new characters and its innovative gameplay mechanics.
New Characters of Expedition 33: Monoco and Esquie
The full cast of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has been revealed, introducing seven fully playable characters and one dedicated to exploration. Join the mysterious Monoco and Esquie on the 33rd expedition.
Monoco, the team's "friendly and bloodthirsty Gestral," thrives in combat and sees competition as a form of meditation. This character can transform into defeated enemies, bringing a unique twist to combat by harnessing the powers of fallen foes. Unaffected by the Paintress’ power, Monoco joined the team in anticipation of future battles.
Esquie, dubbed the oldest and strongest being in the world, takes a supportive role in combat. This living legend enables the team to access various locations across an open world map. By retrieving his special stones, players can unlock new abilities and explore previously unreachable areas.
The other playable characters, Gustave, Lune, Maelle, Sciel, Renoir, and Verso, were introduced on October 16, 2024, via a YouTube video. Despite their diverse personalities and motivations, these characters have united to break the cycle of death once and for all.
Turn-Based Combat Innovation and Deep Character Customization
Sandfall Interactive is set to redefine the turn-based RPG genre with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. According to an article from Xbox Wire on January 23, 2025, the game aims to be more than just visually appealing.
"We didn’t want the game to just be a pretty face," stated CEO and creative director Guillaume Broche. "We wanted it to feel like a real game. Each character has their own playstyle, offering multiple ways to play, yet they remain distinct with unique mechanics and skill trees."
The game introduces a reactive turn-based system, blending real-time elements into traditional turn-based combat. Players can dodge enemy attacks or parry to deliver massive damage. For those not adept at timing, difficulty settings can adjust the parry and dodge windows, ensuring accessibility.
Character customization goes deep, with each character featuring unique mechanics and skill trees. For instance, Lune can accumulate a resource called "Stain" to enhance her abilities. Players can also evolve "Pictos," equipment modifiers, into permanent "Luminas" after four battles, offering extensive customization options.
With hundreds of build possibilities through Luminas, unique skills, and abilities, players can tailor their playstyle. The reactive turn-based system adds a fresh layer to classic combat, testing both strategic thinking and reflexes.
