Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s Success Shows Growing Desire for Western Turn-Based RPGs

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2021 has been exceptional for introducing hit debut titles from emerging studios; a clear demonstration is Sandfall Interactive’s eagerly awaited RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Since its release, it has garnered widespread acclaim and favorable reviews from gamers and critics alike.

However, here’s an interesting twist: “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33” deviates from the standard patterns of contemporary gaming. Unlike the conventional first-person shooter games popularized by Call of Duty or the extraction shooters like Bungie’s Marathon, it’s not about that. Instead, it’s a role-playing game where turns matter, a nod to the enduring appeal of traditional Western turn-based RPGs among gamers.

Japanese turn-based RPGs such as Persona, Final Fantasy, and Octopath Traveler have consistently appealed to players, but when it comes to Western turn-based games, discussions about them seem to dwindle. This genre is relatively niche, and it has evolved in unique ways over time. Games like West of Loathing, SteamWorld Heist, Darkest Dungeon, and others have added their own twists to the conventional format.

It’s worth noting that this isn’t inherently negative, but it’s been challenging to achieve widespread popularity. However, the arrival of Baldur’s Gate 3 by Larian Studios has made a significant impact, even leading to a comeback in the genre.

Currently, it appears that luck is on Sandfall Interactive’s side with their first release. The game has garnered an enthusiastic fanbase, particularly among aficionados of Baldur’s Gate 3 and role-playing game (RPG) enthusiasts in general. Critics have given it above-average ratings, and the game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is rapidly becoming a serious contender for Game of the Year, standing alongside popular titles such as Hazelight Studios’ Split Fiction and Dogubomb’s Blue Prince.

From the moment the game initially showcased its gameplay preview, players have been repeatedly drawn into the game’s captivating combat system, which artfully combines quick-time events in real-time with traditional RPG tactics.

A significant factor behind Clair Obscur’s triumph isn’t just its captivating and tactical turn-based combat, but also its unique style – a mesmerizing fusion of fantasy and Parisian elegance. The visuals alone make the game worth seeing, yet players are drawn in by its intriguing characters and immersive narrative set in another realm.

Sandfall Interactive made a shrewd decision by bringing in voices from well-known games for their project. For instance, Jennifer English, renowned for her role as Shadowheart in Baldur’s Gate 3, brings her skills to this production. Similarly, Ben Starr, famous for his portrayal of Clive Rosfield in Final Fantasy XVI, is not only a significant figure in the promotion but plays one of the game’s main characters. Fans of these series will undoubtedly find much to appreciate. To add to this star-studded cast, Andy Serkis, a big name in Hollywood, takes on a role within the game’s party.

As a passionate gamer, I can’t help but feel exhilarated by the resounding success of Clair Obscur. It’s evident that the gaming community is craving for a well-crafted Western turn-based RPG that doesn’t necessarily have to be a spin-off of Persona or an iconic Square Enix production. What truly matters is quality, and a compelling cast of characters who make the journey together feel worthwhile. (And let’s not forget the power of positive word-of-mouth!)

If Baldur’s Gate 3 didn’t exist, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 could easily challenge and potentially redefine the turn-based RPG genre for Western audiences. Its exceptional quality, even as a debut game from a new studio, speaks volumes about its potential impact. It’s no wonder that it will pave the way for future RPG designs, setting a new standard in the industry. Truly, it embodies the phrase “lightning in a bottle.

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2025-04-24 18:42