Clair Obscur Expedition 33 First Look Gameplay reveals Flying Waters area and dynamic combat

While we still have a while to wait for Clair Obscur Expedition 33's release in 2025, developer Sandfall Interactive has graciously provided a firsthand look at actual gameplay with a video posted today on their official YouTube channel. While it's only a few minutes long, the footage gives us our best look yet at what we can expect from the full release.

We get a formal introduction to one of the game's first explorable areas called Flying Waters. Visually stunning and resembling something out of a Wonderland tale, we follow Expedition 33 leader Gustave as he and Lune search for their missing comrade Maelle. Along the way, they come across the stoic remains of two survivors from Expedition 68, a squad that presumably sought the same mission to defeat the Paintress decades before them.

Soon after, we get a detailed look at what an actual battle looks like in the game, at least when it comes to random encounters. Upon approaching and engaging an enemy called Luster, the screen cuts away to the start of a turn-based encounter, highly reminiscent of and clearly inspired by classic RPGs that use the same style. There's even a 'First Strike' bonus indicated, which happens when you successfully ambush an enemy before they do.

As the battle ensues, we can see that Gustave's combat style includes dual-wielding a pistol and sword, with attacks that make use of both along with his mechanical arm. Meanwhile, Lune's arsenal presents her as a mage-type attacker, wielding different elements against her foes. PlayStation Blog also highlights the use of the Free Aim system, which will allow players to shoot enemy weak points.

While fundamental attacks are executed in a turn-based fashion, allowing you time to strategize as needed, dodging and parrying are done in real-time as the enemy attacks. There are different buttons for both, and you need to hit them at the right moment to evade damage. Counterattacks are also included, as Gustave performs one to end the fight. Fight results are displayed, noting XP gained for each party member and "Battle Loot" acquired.

Further footage shows Maelle rejoining the party and making use of a practical grapple mechanic to reach high places around the environment. Another battle against a boss called Goblu shows off her fighting style, brandishing a rapier sword and also wielding elemental abilities. Certain ones require executing a specific button combo (as seen above), and maximum damage is achieved if done perfectly.

All in all, while there's still much to learn about the story behind Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, it's now abundantly clear that combat in the game is exceptionally thought out, with a dynamic variety of mechanics that work together efficiently while still allowing players to customize their strategies as they wish.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 arrives on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC platforms in 2025. Feel free to watch the latest trailer for the game below.

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