Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – Release window, platforms, gameplay, more

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is an upcoming turn-based RPG that has taken inspiration from popular JRPGs like Persona.

One of the surprise hits from the 2024 Xbox Games Showcase was Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 which stunned viewers with its visual design and turn-based combat. The game proudly wears its JRPG influence on its sleeve and promises to “enhance the heart of turn-based combat” gameplay.

With its blend of traditional fantasy tropes and real-time mechanics, Sandfall Interactive is hoping to wow both JRPG and traditional RPG fans.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 release window

There is currently no release date for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, but the Xbox Games Showcase trailer did reveal a 2025 release window.

Once we’ve got more information about a concrete release date, we’ll be sure to update this page.

Platforms 

Despite being one of the big reveals at Xbox Games Showcase 2024, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will be released on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC via Steam and Epic.

Crossplay and cross-progression between these systems have yet to be announced, but we’ll update this article as and when new information has been revealed. 

Is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 coming to Xbox Game Pass? 

Yes, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will be coming day one to Xbox Game Pass.

This means you’ll be able to download and play the game at on extra cost as long as have an active subscription. 

Gameplay 

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 utilizes turn-based combat that will be familiar to JRPG fans, particularly those who enjoy the Persona series. However, unlike traditional turn-based JRPGs, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 features real-time actions that aim to “enhance the heart of turn-based combat” gameplay. 

Actions like dodging, parrying, and countering enemy attacks are all done in real time – giving you much more control over your party’s actions. Players will be able to chain combos by learning attack rhythms, and even target enemy weak points using a free-aim system.

During the initial gameplay trailer, we got to see how the six-player party system works in combat, with units synergizing and following up for flashy attacks. The official website also notes that there will be crafting, unlockable loot, stats, skills, and gear that will create unique playstyles.

Customization will play a big part in allowing fans to craft distinct builds regardless of what characteristics specific party members align with.

Outside of combat, you’ll be traveling through linear regions and while the game isn’t open world, it will allow for some exploration where you can run into challenges like optional bosses. You’ll also be able to periodically save your progress and upgrade characters at specific points.

On August 28, 2024, a first-look gameplay video was shared online which gives fans a look at some early footage in the Flying Waters area where the characters Gustave and Lune are searching for their missing companion, Maelle.

You can check out the full video below that highlights the hybrid combat, and all the actions players will need to take into account when battling:

Story details

The story takes place in a world where every year, the Paintress paints a number upon a monolith and everyone of that age turns to smoke.

With only one year left to live, Gustave, Maelle, and their fellow Expeditioners embark upon a desperate quest to break the Paintress’ cycle of death. Players will have to follow the trail of previous expeditions and discover their fate, and the members of Expedition 33 learn to work together.

It’s up to the Expedition to unravel the mystery behind the Paintress and destroy her before she erases the last survivors of humanity. 

That’s everything we know about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 so far. For more on upcoming games, check out our hubs for GTA 6, Silent Hill 2, Dragon Ball Sparking Zero, Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, and Borderlands 4.