What inspired the authors of the ambitious JRPG Clair Obscur and what they gave up: Expedition 33?

French studio Sandfall Interactive is preparing to release its debut game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which combines elements of classic Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs) and modern action games. However, what was the inspiration of the developers?

Here's What We Know

The game draws inspiration from such legendary JRPGs as Final Fantasy VII, VIII, IX, and X, but also integrates elements from modern hits such as Sekiro. The combat system combines turn-based battles with elements that need to be activated in real time, requiring players to be precise and quick to react.

The game is set in a dark fantasy world inspired by the Belle Époque era. Players will join an expedition led by Gustave (voiced by Charlie Cox), who seeks to stop the mysterious Artist, whose gift for painting leads to the disappearance of people who have reached a certain age.

In addition to traditional turn-based battles, the game includes timed events for attacks and defence, which adds to the dynamics. The defence system allows you to dodge or repel enemy attacks, which makes battles more interactive.

The game has a visual style that combines elements of Belle Époque and Art Deco. The developers have deliberately abandoned the manga or anime aesthetics in order to create something new and original.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will be released on 24 April 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.

Source: GamesRadar