Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – One of the Biggest Hits of 2025

28/05/25

The French role-playing game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 by Sandfall Interactive has become one of the standout titles of the year. Released on April 24, 2025, the game quickly gained widespread attention from both players and critics, securing its place among the most successful releases of the year.

Critical Acclaim

From day one, Expedition 33 received glowing reviews. With a Metacritic average of 92 out of 100, it is one of the highest-rated titles of 2025 across all platforms. Critics have praised the game for:

its original setting inspired by the Belle Époque period of France;
a unique combat system combining turn-based strategy with real-time actions;
a striking visual style and interface reminiscent of top-tier Japanese RPGs;
a deep, emotional narrative.

Some reviewers have already dubbed Expedition 33 a “new classic,” and major gaming outlets have listed it as a contender for Game of the Year.

Atmosphere and Story

Set in a dark, elegant fantasy world shaped by early 20th-century French aesthetics, the game follows a mysterious ritual led by an enigmatic entity known as The Painter. Each year, she awakens to paint a number on a towering monolith — and all people who have reached that age vanish without a trace.

This year, the chosen number is 33. Players lead a group of Chosen individuals who embark on a perilous expedition to reach The Painter and end the deadly cycle. Along the way, they confront not only physical dangers but also philosophical themes of fate, fear, memory, and sacrifice.

Gameplay

Clair Obscur offers a unique mix of traditional JRPG elements with innovative mechanics. The turn-based combat system integrates real-time actions such as dodging, blocking, and precision attacks, making every battle dynamic and engaging.

Each character has distinct abilities that can be combined strategically, and progression allows for customizable playstyles. The game’s artistic presentation, smooth animations, and emotionally charged direction elevate its overall impact.

Impressive Sales

In less than 33 days after launch, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 sold over 3.3 million copies worldwide — an exceptional achievement for a debut title from a small studio. The game also performed strongly in digital subscription services, having been included in Xbox Game Pass from day one, greatly expanding its reach.

A Cultural Phenomenon

The game’s success has reached beyond the gaming community. French President Emmanuel Macron publicly congratulated the development team, calling it “a shining example of French creativity and courage in the digital arts.”

What’s Next?

Sandfall Interactive has confirmed that it is reassessing its long-term plans. Initially conceived as a standalone story, the overwhelming response has prompted the studio to consider expansions or sequels, despite the game’s multiple definitive endings. Fans and critics alike await future announcements with anticipation.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is already considered one of the most remarkable and successful RPGs of the decade — and this is just the beginning of its story.