Some games are eagerly awaited, while others arrive like meteors, sweeping everything in their path. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 definitely falls into the latter category. Developed by the Montpellier-based studio Sandfall Interactive, this dark-fantasy RPG inspired by our Belle Époque has taken off like a rocket. In just a matter of days, the game has surpassed the remarkable milestone of one million copies sold worldwide. A score worthy of the biggest AAA titles, for an indie game that has nothing to envy from the big names in the genre.
The best video game of 2025?
Right from its release on April 24, the game won everyone over. A solid 92 on Metacritic, rave reviews, and most importantly, a community that has been buzzing with excitement over its gameplay and stunning visual universe. It's worth mentioning that with its mariners, berets, and pixelated baguettes, Expedition 33 fully embraces its French DNA – and it feels refreshing. Even players who aren’t typically fans of turn-based combat found themselves charmed by a gameplay system that shakes up the genre’s norms. Dodges, parries, counters… here, each turn is also played in real-time, with stunning fluidity.
But what really makes the heart of the success is the story. A curse that wipes people out every year, an age limit that keeps getting younger, and a group of heroes determined to put an end to this existential nightmare. Add in some nifty customization mechanics and a stunning graphic style, and you've got an explosive cocktail.
The game is already being tipped to sweep the awards at the next Game Awards, and as a new franchise, it checks all the boxes: original, ambitious, and wildly appealing. In short, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 isn't just the success we hoped for. It may very well be the game of the year.
