Sandfall Interactive has unveiled exciting new details about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, including its release date, characters, and gameplay mechanics, during Xbox's Developer Direct. Dive in to discover everything you need to know about this highly anticipated game!
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 In-Depth Information Unveiled
Put an End to the Paintress's Madness This April 2025
Set in a fantasy world inspired by "Belle Epoque France," Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is set to launch on April 24, 2025, as announced by Sandfall Interactive during Xbox's Developer Direct. This eagerly awaited game promises to reinvent classic turn-based combat, offering a fresh and innovative experience. Excitingly, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will be available on day one with Xbox Game Pass.
Players can pre-order the base game for $44.99 or opt for the Deluxe Edition at $59.99 on the Xbox Store. Both editions are available at a 10% discount on Steam and PS5, priced at $44.99 and $53.99 respectively. The game is currently available for wishlisting on the Epic Games Store.
The Steam discount will end on May 2, 2025, while the PlayStation discount will be available until the game’s release date at 3:00 PM (local time). PS5 players must be subscribed to PlayStation Plus to avail of this introductory price.
In addition to the release date, Sandfall Interactive has shared detailed insights into the game's new characters and gameplay mechanics.
New Characters of Expedition 33: Monoco and Esquie
The game's full cast has been revealed, featuring seven fully playable characters and one dedicated to exploration. The latest additions to the 33rd expedition are the mysterious Monoco and Esquie.
Monoco, the team’s "friendly and bloodthirsty Gestral," thrives on combat and views competition as a form of meditation. This unique character can transform into defeated enemies, adding a strategic layer to combat by harnessing the powers of fallen foes. Unaffected by the Paintress’ power, Monoco joined the group out of intrigue for future battles.
Esquie, known as the oldest and strongest being in the world, takes a more supportive role. While not directly involved in combat, Esquie enables the team to access various locations across the open world map. By collecting special stones, players can unlock new abilities and explore previously inaccessible areas.
The other playable characters, Gustave, Lune, Maelle, Sciel, Renoir, and Verso, were previously introduced in a YouTube video on October 16, 2024. Despite their diverse personalities and motivations, they have united to break the cycle of death.
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 offer more than just visual appeal.
"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, allowing for diverse gameplay experiences. They feel distinct from one another, 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 inflict massive damage. For those who may not have "Sekiro-caliber timing," difficulty settings can be adjusted to modify the parry and dodge windows, ensuring accessibility for all players.
Character customization is another highlight, with each character possessing unique mechanics and skill trees. For instance, Lune can accumulate a resource called "Stain" to enhance her abilities. Players can also evolve "Pictos," modifiers tied to equipment, into permanent "Luminas" after four battles, offering extensive ways to tailor each character.
With deep character customization and a reactive turn-based system, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 promises hundreds of different builds, allowing players to craft a playstyle that suits their preferences. This innovative approach challenges both strategic thinking and reflexes, making for a truly engaging gaming experience.
