During the Xbox Developer_Direct, Sandfall Interactive unveiled a new trailer for the upcoming Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which ended with the game's release date. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will launch on April 24 for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. Initially announced during the Xbox Games Showcase in June 2024, the game caught the attention of RPG fans worldwide with its fresh and unique take on turn-based combat.
The new trailer showcased more gameplay, including an overworld—a hallmark feature of 90s JRPGs, which also returned in the recently released Dynasty Warriors: Origins. The developer says Expedition 33's overworld will be packed with secrets for the most intrepid explorers. The trailer also featured more battles, highlighting elements the studio describes as reactive turn-based combat with real-time twists and some snippets of the game's narrative.
The story of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 takes place in a world where every year, a being known as the Paintress paints a number on her monolith. Everyone of that age turns to smoke and dies. The game kicks off one day before she paints the number 33 when a group of adventurers known as Expedition 33 set off on a mission to defeat the Paintress and break this cycle of death.
The RPG's cast is packed with renowned voice actors. The protagonist, Gustave, will be voiced by Charlie Cox, known for his role as Daredevil. Andy Serkis, famous for portraying Gollum in The Lord of the Rings, lends his voice to Renoir. Jennifer English, the voice behind Shadowheart in Baldur's Gate III, plays Maelle, while fan-favorite Ben Starr—Clive from Final Fantasy XVI—voices the mysterious Verso.
Even though Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is the first game from indie studio Sandfall Interactive, it's incredible how much clout it has been gaining among players, thanks to both its stunning visual production and the twists in its turn-based combat system. In reactive turn-based combat, every command in the game can be enhanced by pressing precisely timed inputs displayed on-screen. Enemy attacks can also be either blocked or parried if the player presses the button at the right moment. The developers have already stated that experienced players will be able to complete Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 in a no-damage run, possibly teasing speedrunners worldwide.
For RPG fans, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is undoubtedly one of the most awaited games in 2025. If you're interested in the game, pre-orders are already available for both the standard and collector's editions. If you're looking to save some cash, check out our price comparator for the best deals to preorder Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and get ready to race against time and face the Paintress.
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