Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is an upcoming turn-based role-playing game drawing inspiration from celebrated JRPGs like the Persona series.
One of the most unexpected highlights from the 2024 Xbox Games Showcase was Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which captivated audiences with its stunning visuals and strategic turn-based combat mechanics. This game proudly embraces its JRPG roots and aims to “elevate the essence of turn-based combat.”
Synthesizing classic fantasy elements with real-time components, developer Sandfall Interactive aims to charm both enthusiasts of JRPGs and traditional role-playing games alike.
Release Window for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Though an exact release date has not yet been announced for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the trailer revealed at the Xbox Games Showcase indicates a 2025 release window.
We will keep this page updated with any news regarding a specific release date as it becomes available.
Supported Platforms
Despite being one of the prominent announcements at the 2024 Xbox Games Showcase, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is set to launch on the Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC via both Steam and Epic Games Store.
Details regarding crossplay and cross-progression features between these platforms are still to be confirmed, but any new information will be added to this article promptly.
Will Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 be available on Xbox Game Pass?
Indeed, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will launch on day one via Xbox Game Pass.
This enables subscribers to download and play the game at no additional cost, provided they maintain an active membership.
Gameplay Mechanics
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 features turn-based combat that will resonate with fans of JRPGs, particularly those fond of the Persona franchise. However, this title introduces real-time actions to complement traditional turn mechanics, aiming to “enhance the core of turn-based gameplay.”
Real-time elements such as dodging, parrying, and countering allow for more dynamic control during battles, enabling players to execute combos by mastering attack patterns and target enemies’ weak points through a free-aiming mechanic.
The trailer showcased the combat system featuring a six-character party, demonstrating how team synergy leads to spectacular attack combinations. The official website highlights additional gameplay elements, including crafting, collectible gear, skill trees, and stats, all designed to foster personalized gameplay styles.
Expedition 33 features a unique mix of turn-based and real-time combat mechanics.
Customization will play a crucial role, allowing players to build distinctive strategies based on the capabilities of their party members.
While the game doesn’t offer an open-world experience, players will navigate through structured areas with opportunities for exploration, encountering optional bosses and challenges. Additionally, they can save progress at specific points and enhance their characters.
On August 28, 2024, a first-look gameplay video was released, showcasing initial footage from the Flying Waters region featuring characters Gustave and Lune in search of their missing companion, Maelle.
Check out this full gameplay video below that showcases the hybrid combat system and essential player actions during battles:
Narrative Overview
The storyline unfolds in a world where, annually, the Paintress inscribes a number upon a monolith that results in the demise of those individuals upon reaching that age.
Facing only one year left to live, characters Gustave, Maelle, and their fellow Expeditioners embark on a critical quest to disrupt the Paintress’s cycle of death. Players will trace the paths of past expeditions to uncover their fates while learning the importance of teamwork within Expedition 33.
The mission is to unveil the enigma surrounding the Paintress and thwart her before she wipes out the last remnants of humanity.
Voice Cast
On October 16, 2024, the cast for Expedition 33 was unveiled in an official PlayStation blog post.
This group includes notable talent that many are likely to recognize. Here’s a brief overview of the characters and their voice actors revealed thus far:
- Gustave – Charlie Cox
- Maelle – Jennifer English
- Lune – Kirsty Rider
- Skiel – Hall Nyx
- Verso – Ben Starr
- Renoir – Andy Serkis
- Undisclosed role – Rich Keeble
- Undisclosed role – Maxence Cazorla
That encompasses everything we know about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 at this moment.
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