Sandfall Interactive’s turn-based RPG Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has secured Pushsquare’s prestigious Game of the Month award for April 2025. Released on 24 April across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC platforms, the game masterfully blends Belle Époque aesthetics with innovative combat mechanics, marking a significant evolution in the RPG genre.
At its core, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 presents a haunting narrative centred around a mysterious entity known as the Paintress, who possesses the power to erase entire age groups from existence through an annual decree. Players guide Expedition 33, a determined group on a mission to overthrow this godlike being, navigating through a world where the threat of erasure looms constantly.
The game’s distinctive combat system represents a remarkable departure from traditional RPG frameworks. Battles seamlessly integrate turn-based commands with real-time elements, requiring players to master both strategic planning and active combat skills. This innovative approach introduces a layer of complexity through mechanics such as dodging, parrying, and stamina management, whilst maintaining the depth of traditional turn-based systems.
Character customisation emerges as another standout feature, with each party member offering unique tactical possibilities. The mage Lune manipulates elemental “Stains” to enhance spells, whilst the fencer Maelle employs various stances to adapt her combat style. The inclusion of “Pictos” and “Luminas” systems provides additional layers of strategic depth, allowing players to craft distinctly personalised approaches to combat.
The game’s artistic direction draws heavily from the Belle Époque period, creating a melancholic atmosphere that sets it apart from conventional RPG aesthetics. This visual approach, coupled with the game’s sophisticated narrative structure, demonstrates Sandfall Interactive’s commitment to pushing genre boundaries whilst respecting its foundations.
From a technical perspective, the game offers impressive accessibility through multiple difficulty options and a comprehensive New Game Plus mode, ensuring both newcomers and veteran players find suitable challenges. These features contribute significantly to the game’s longevity and replay value.
The critical success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 signals a potential shift in RPG design philosophy, demonstrating how traditional turn-based systems can evolve to meet contemporary gaming expectations without sacrificing strategic depth. The game’s recognition as April’s Game of the Month validates Sandfall Interactive’s bold approach to genre innovation.
Beyond its immediate acclaim, the game’s success positions it as a potential foundation for future expansions, though Sandfall Interactive has yet to announce concrete plans for the franchise’s future. The rich lore and numerous unresolved mysteries surrounding the Paintress’s origins provide ample material for potential narrative expansion.
News Source: https://www.pushsquare.com/features/game-of-the-month-clair-obscur-expedition-33-april-2025
