Words like "epic" and "amazing" barely scratch the surface of what makes this experience so extraordinary. For a deeper look at why I think this game stands as one of this year's must-play titles, dive into the Clair Obscur Expedition 33 review.
Clair Obscur Expedition 33 thrusts you into the desperate struggle of Lumiere's people, whose very lives hang in the balance. When the mysterious Paintress inscribes an age number on a distant island's stone, that entire generation perishes - a brutal truth you witness firsthand as age 34 is wiped out in the game's devastating opening act. This emotional gut-punch sets the stage for your monumental mission: to stop the Paintress before she claims another generation.
The RPG Mechanics in Clair Obscur Expedition 33 Are Satisfying
Turn-based combat isn’t for everyone, and most players with an inclination towards action games miss the adrenaline rush that hack-and-slash games offer. But Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 does impactful changes to the turn-based combat that most players are aware of, and it makes the combat a satisfying treat to play.
At its core, the game still has classic turn-based combat, but the way each character plays—with unique skills, counterattacks, dodges, and gradient attacks—keeps battles dynamic and rewarding. You’ll find yourself eager to jump into fights just to experiment with different strategies.
That’s not to say the combat is easy. It demands precision, especially when timing dodges or parries. While dodging is a bit more forgiving, landing a well-timed parry is incredibly satisfying and often game-changing.
What really makes battles shine is how distinct each character feels. Take Gustave, for example—his Overcharge ability builds up as he lands melee attacks, culminating in a devastating electric strike. Then there’s Maelle, who can switch between three stances: Offensive and Virtuose for high damage output, and Defense to protect herself.
Lune, meanwhile, accumulates elemental stains (earth, fire, electric, etc.) by casting spells, then consumes them to unleash massive, screen-shaking attacks. With so many mechanics to master, Clair Obscur Expedition 33’s combat never gets old.
The Character Design and Graphics are Amazing
From the moment you take control of Gustave, Clair Obscur Expedition 33 makes a striking visual impression. The character design is exceptional—so much so that I couldn't shake the uncanny resemblance between protagonist Gustave and actor Robert Pattinson.
Whether intentional or not, this sophisticated aesthetic extends to every aspect of the characters, from their facial features and hairstyles to their detailed Expedition 33 outfits. Combined with superb voice acting, these elements create an immediate connection that draws players into the game's world.
The visual feast of the game's world and character design continues as you progress through the story and expand your party. Each new companion brings their own distinctive flair and personality, further showcasing how much the developers poured their love into the characters in the game.
The environments are equally breathtaking—take the Floating Waters area, where vibrant colors and aquatic landscapes create a truly mesmerizing seascape. Every region boasts its own unique flora and atmospheric touches, making exploration a constant delight for the senses as you try to reach the Paintress.
The French Music in Clair Obscur Expedition 33 is the Heart of the Story
There’s no denying that Clair Obscur Expedition 33 delivers an emotional and deeply touching story. Yet, at times, the game’s most powerful moments aren’t carried by words, screenplay, or narrative—they’re conveyed through its novel French soundtracks.
This music doesn’t just accompany the journey—it becomes the journey as you progress the game's story. Whether you’re mourning a fallen comrade at the hands of the Paintress, rallying your party for a climactic boss fight, or sharing quiet moments of companionship at camp, the score resonates with raw emotion.
The French music in Clair Obscur Expedition 33 is the beating heartbeat of the game, elevating every triumph, tragedy, and tender exchange that you would otherwise not have found profound had there been an absence of music.
As Victor Hugo, one of the best French Romantic authors, once said: “Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.” That sentiment rings true in Clair Obscur Expedition 33, where melodies speak louder than words ever could.
Clair Obscur Expedition 33 Review - Final Verdict
Clair Obscur Expedition 33 is for you if you’re looking for an impactful video game that delivers strong characters, a mysterious story, feelings of losing loved ones or the fear of losing one, and the struggle to beat all odds and bring something new for those who come after us.
Even if you don’t like the combat too much, as it is turn-based, you can always lower the difficulty and make the combat much easier to deal with, which otherwise is pretty brutal on harder difficulties.
There is an expansive world to explore, enemies to fight, bosses to defeat, and above all, one of the best French soundtracks to listen to as you go through a rollercoaster of emotions from the start of the game with Sophie’s death to learning about the White-haired Man and finally reaching the magnificent Paintress. This game is for you!
That is everything you need to know about the Clair Obscur Expedition 33 review. For similar games, check out the best turn-based strategy games on PC.
Published: Apr 23, 2025 06:30 am