Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Wears Its FF and Persona Influences on Its Sleeves

Sandfall Interactive's upcoming turn-based RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, is making waves with its unique blend of classic and modern RPG elements. Inspired by the Belle Époque and drawing heavily from iconic titles like Final Fantasy and Persona, the game promises a fresh take on the genre. Following a successful demo, the creative director shed light on the game's design influences.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – A Nostalgic Journey with Modern Flair

The game seamlessly merges turn-based strategy with real-time action elements. Players issue commands in a turn-based system but must also react swiftly to enemy attacks, creating a dynamic and engaging combat experience reminiscent of Persona, Final Fantasy, and Sea of Stars.

In an interview, creative director Guillaume Broche revealed his passion for turn-based games and the desire to create a high-fidelity title in the genre. He cited Persona and Octopath Traveler as stylistic inspirations, emphasizing his aim to deliver a visually stunning experience.

The narrative centers around preventing a mysterious antagonist, the Paintress, from unleashing death once more. The game boasts unique environments, such as the gravity-defying Flying Waters, adding to the game's overall charm.

The Final Fantasy Legacy and a Persona Polish

While acknowledging Persona's influence on camera work and menu design, Broche highlighted the significant impact of the Final Fantasy series, specifically Final Fantasy VIII, IX, and X, on the game's core mechanics. He stressed that the game is not a direct imitation but rather a reflection of his personal experiences and creative evolution shaped by these classics. The team aimed for a dynamic feel, while maintaining a distinct art style.

The open world of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 offers players complete control over their party, allowing for seamless switching between characters and utilizing unique traversal abilities to solve environmental puzzles. Broche even encourages players to experiment with unconventional character builds and strategies.

The development team expressed their hope that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will resonate with players in the same way that classic RPGs impacted their lives. The game is slated for release on PC, PS5, and Xbox in 2025.