Clair Obscur Expedition 33 Could Be the Most Artistic RPG of 2025

Death, memory, rebellion — and brushstrokes

Video games and fine arts don’t often intersect but Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 does — and then some. From Sandfall Interactive, this highly anticipated turn-based RPG looks like it jumped out of an art museum and into a fantasy novel.

Releasing April 24, 2025 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC and at launch on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a great mix of story, art and combat.

The Paintress and the fate of the 33

Every year, a god-like artist called The Paintress paints a number on a mysterious monolith. Anyone’s age that matches the number is never heard from again. This year, the number is 33.

You are part of Expedition 33, a group of people chosen for erasure, on a journey to change your fate. You’ll meet some fully fleshed out characters and hopefully you’ll start to feel a nurturing affection for them, especially Gustave, Lune and Maelle — who are fighting back against their fate.

Belle Époque dread, voiced to perfection

Set in a world influenced by Belle Époque-era France, the story weaves together themes of memory, mortality, and rebellion. With full performances from actors like Andy Serkis and Charlie Cox, the game delivers cinematic storytelling without sacrificing interactivity. Think more animated film than spreadsheet RPG.

Engaging Gameplay That Rewards Strategy and Timing

While the game respects its JRPG roots, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 goes a step further with a reactive turn-based combat system that keeps you active every turn.

Combat Features:

• Real-time parries, dodges, and counters

• Free-aim targeting for critical hits

• Quick-time attacks that boost your damage

• Combo chaining and attack rhythm mastery

This hybrid system makes every fight a challenge, one of the most exciting in modern RPGs.

Customize Your Playstyle with the Pictos and Luminas System

Progression isn’t just about XP and gear. Characters in Clair Obscur equip Pictos — magical accessories that unlock special buffs, defenses or bonuses under specific conditions. Master a Picto and it becomes a Lumina, a permanent upgrade that changes how your character plays.

The system encourages experimentation and synergy between party members, without the grind of older RPGs.

A Living Painting You Can Play

The visuals are where Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 really shines. Every environment looks hand-painted, but with the depth and lighting of next-gen tech, thanks to Unreal Engine 5. Expect:

• Painterly lighting and mood-driven weather

• Character designs inspired by classical art

• Seamless transitions between cinematic cutscenes and gameplay

It’s haunting and immersive, every frame looks intentional.

Why RPG Developers Matter

So here are a few ways Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 sets itself up to be the best RPG of 2025:

• New combat system based on timing and precision

• Emotional, high stakes story

• Unique visuals not found in most games

• Meaningful character progression through Pictos/Lumina system

• On all platforms including a first class Game Pass title at launch

Add to your wishlist now

In short, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a game that breaks the mold with a poetic narrative, unique visuals, and an actively subversive approach to RPG systems. We call this game more than a game, an interactive literary work of art. If you like games that blend storytelling, strategy, visuals, this RPG should be on your radar (preferably at the top of the radar).

👉 Add to your wishlist now, join the official Discord, and follow Sandfall Interactive on social media to stay up to date!

Release Date: April 24, 2025

Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC (Steam, Epic Games), Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

More For You

PS5 Pro vs Xbox Series X: Ultimate Console Showdown for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Free Games Alert: Epic’s giving away Botanicula & Firestone RPG—yours to keep!

This Steam game is free right now — but there’s a catch (and you’ll want to know it).

GTA V Free on Xbox Game Pass - Download Before It’s Gone