
The eagerly anticipated game from the young French studio Sandfall Interactive, Clair Obscur, is already making waves in the gaming community. Early reviews from prominent gaming media outlets are showering praise on the game for its deep narrative, mature tone, and thrilling combat system. Some reviewers are even drawing comparisons to the iconic Final Fantasy series, heralding Clair Obscur as a modern counterpart.
RPG Gamer's reviewer was particularly struck by the fact that this debut project from such a youthful development team managed to deliver an experience typically associated with studios boasting decades of experience. In just a couple of hours, the game showcased a level of polish and engagement that left a lasting impression. If this quality is sustained throughout the entire game, Expedition 33 could be a strong contender at The Game Awards 2025.
IGN's journalist was left wanting more after the demo session concluded, eager to delve deeper into the game's rich world and engage in additional battles. The achievement of such a young team in creating such a compelling experience was a point of amazement for them.
Kotaku's author went a step further, predicting that Clair Obscur could ascend to the status of a turn-based classic, likening it to a new Final Fantasy. They were particularly impressed by the innovative integration of QTE mechanics into the traditional turn-based combat system, which adds a fresh layer of excitement to the gameplay.
In addition to the gameplay, reviewers have lauded the game's excellent visual style and the maturity of its narrative, which together contribute to an immersive and engaging experience.
Clair Obscur is slated for release on April 24, 2025, and will be available on current-generation consoles, including the PS5 and Xbox Series, as well as on PC via Steam. Gamers can look forward to diving into this promising title in the near future.