Sandfall Interactive recently unveiled key details about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 during Xbox's Developer Direct, including the release date, character roster, and innovative combat system. Let's delve into the exciting news!
Unveiling the Mystery: April 24, 2025 Release Date
Set in a Belle Epoque France-inspired fantasy world, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will launch on April 24, 2025. The announcement, made during the Xbox Developer Direct, confirmed the game's arrival on Xbox Game Pass on day one.
Pre-orders are open! Secure your copy for $44.99 (standard) or $59.99 (Deluxe Edition) on the Xbox Store. Steam and PS5 offer a 10% discount ($44.99 and $53.99 respectively), though the Steam discount ends May 2nd, 2025, and the PS5 discount (requiring PlayStation Plus) ends at 3:00 PM local time on release day. An Epic Games Store listing is currently available for wishlisting.
Meet the New Recruits: Monoco and Esquie
The full cast of seven playable characters (plus one exploration-focused character) has been revealed. Joining the previously announced Gustave, Lune, Maelle, Sciel, Renoir, and Verso are Monoco and Esquie.
Monoco, a "friendly and bloodthirsty Gestral," possesses the unique ability to transform into defeated enemies, leveraging their powers in combat. Gestrals are notably immune to the Paintress's influence.
Esquie, an ancient and powerful being, acts as a guide, unlocking access to various locations across the open world map. Collecting his special stones grants the party new abilities and opens up previously inaccessible areas.
Reimagining Turn-Based Combat: A Reactive System
Sandfall Interactive has revitalized classic turn-based RPG combat. CEO and creative director Guillaume Broche emphasizes a focus on depth and character differentiation: "We wanted it to be like a game that feels like a real game."
The innovative "reactive turn-based system" introduces real-time elements, allowing players to parry and dodge attacks for increased damage or defense. The timing window is adjustable for varying difficulty levels.
Deep Character Customization: Each character boasts unique mechanics and skill trees. For instance, Lune accumulates "Stain" to power her abilities. Evolving "Pictos" (equipment modifiers) after four battles unlocks Luminas – permanent passive effects that further enhance character builds. This creates hundreds of build possibilities, catering to diverse playstyles.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 promises a captivating blend of strategic depth and action-oriented combat, delivering a fresh experience within the turn-based RPG genre.
