FF Persona Homage: Clair Obscur's Intriguing Expedition 33

Sandfall Interactive's upcoming turn-based RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, is making waves with its unique blend of classic and modern RPG elements. Following a successful demonstration, the game's director has revealed key inspirations behind its design.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – A Fresh Take on Turn-Based Combat

Drawing inspiration from the Belle Epoque era of France and beloved JRPGs, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 innovatively combines turn-based strategy with real-time action. Heavily influenced by the Final Fantasy and Persona franchises, the game aims to create a distinctive experience within the genre.

Creative director Guillaume Broche, in an interview with Eurogamer, shared his passion for turn-based gameplay and the desire to create a title with high-fidelity visuals. He cited Atlus' Persona and Square Enix's Octopath Traveler as stylish and nostalgic examples that shaped his vision. "If nobody wants to do it, I will do it," he stated, explaining the genesis of the project.

The game's narrative centers around preventing the mysterious Paintress from unleashing death once more, set against unique environments like the gravity-defying Flying Waters. Combat blends turn-based command input with the need for real-time reactions to enemy attacks, creating a dynamic experience reminiscent of Persona, Final Fantasy, and Sea of Stars.

Broche expressed surprise at the overwhelmingly positive reception, stating he anticipated interest from turn-based fans but not the level of excitement the game has generated.

While acknowledging Persona's influence, Broche clarified to PC Gamer that the Final Fantasy series, specifically the Final Fantasy VIII, IX, and X era, had a more profound impact on the game's development. He emphasized that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 isn't a direct imitation but rather a reflection of his personal tastes shaped by these classics. The game's dynamic menus and camera movements were inspired by Persona, but the overall aesthetic and design are uniquely its own.

The open world allows for seamless party member switching and the use of unique traversal abilities to solve environmental puzzles. Broche encourages players to experiment with character builds, hoping they'll discover creative and unexpected strategies. The development team aims to create a game as impactful on players as the classics were on them.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is slated for release on PC, PS5, and Xbox in 2025.