Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 — A Dark, Hypnotic Story That Changed My View on JRPGs
For a long time, I honestly didn’t believe I would ever sit down and play this game. Its world looked intriguing, but turn-based JRPG combat was never really my thing — and in games like this, it’s a core pillar of the experience. Still, glowing recommendations from friends and the controversies surrounding The Game Awards 2025 convinced me to give it a chance and discover the fate of Expedition 33.
This spoiler-free review focuses on what makes Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 such a special experience. Developed by Sandfall Interactive, the game takes us into a surreal, beautifully haunting world ruled by a mysterious entity known as the Paintress, who once a year marks a number on a Monolith — and everyone who reaches that age turns to dust in a ritual called gommage.
The story follows a group of characters determined to end this deadly cycle before it claims another generation. With its rich narrative, striking art direction, emotionally charged themes of light and shadow, and a surprisingly engaging turn-based combat system enhanced with real-time elements, the game delivers a journey that is both melancholic and unforgettable.
Despite some technical hiccups on PS5 Pro and a frustrating upgrade management interface, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 stands out thanks to its exceptional storytelling, atmospheric world design, and outstanding soundtrack. It’s one of the most memorable narratives I’ve experienced in gaming — and a strong contender for Game of the Year, even for players who normally avoid JRPGs.
