Imagine a new, double-A game from a relatively unknown studio becoming one of the biggest contenders for Game of the Year. It sounds unlikely, right? Yet, 2025 has been a year of surprises, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is far from an average game. If you haven’t had the chance to play Sandfall’s masterpiece or have been waiting for a discount, now’s your moment: it’s currently available at its lowest price ever.
As someone who typically favors the fast-paced action of games like Final Fantasy 16 over traditional JRPG-style turn-based combat, I can confidently say that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is an exception. It has quickly earned a distinguished spot among the best PC games ever created.
Drawing inspiration from many beloved JRPGs, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 presents a compelling narrative with world-altering stakes. The central antagonist, The Paintress, is a godlike entity who annually marks a number, condemning everyone of that age or older to death. This threat feels both existentially terrifying and seemingly insurmountable, yet the citizens of Lumiere persistently launch expeditions to stop her, despite a long history of failure.
Beyond the core conflict with The Paintress, Expedition 33’s story is rich and intricate. Every character, from the endearing Gustave to the courageous Maelle, possesses a distinct and genuine personality. The exceptional voice acting further enhances the experience, making each character truly memorable and unique.
Sandfall’s debut game also innovates on turn-based combat, injecting a strategic layer that demands effective party combos. The necessity to actively dodge or parry enemy attacks elevates each encounter, making battles far more engaging than simply watching turns unfold.
Expedition 33 offers an incredible experience, one I’ve likely spoken about endlessly to my friends and family. Now, I’m recommending it to you, dear reader. With its current discount, there’s truly no reason not to dive into this game.
If you’re looking to make your journey through Sandfall Interactive’s RPG even smoother, consider exploring guides on the best Expedition 33 builds to optimize your characters for facing the Paintress, or discover the most effective Expedition 33 weapons to maximize your attack power.