Exploration's Fusion: FF, Persona Echoed in Expedition 33

Sandfall Interactive's upcoming turn-based RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, is generating significant excitement. Its unique blend of genres, showcased recently, has prompted the director to elaborate on its inspirations.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – A Fusion of Turn-Based and Real-Time Gameplay

Drawing inspiration from the Belle Époque era of France and classic JRPGs, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 innovatively merges turn-based combat with real-time elements. Heavily influenced by the Final Fantasy and Persona series, the game aims to establish its own identity within the genre.

Following a successful demo at SGF, creative director Guillaume Broche discussed the game's development. In an interview with Eurogamer, Broche highlighted his passion for turn-based games and the lack of high-fidelity titles in the genre. He cited Persona (Atlus) and Octopath Traveler (Square Enix) as stylish and nostalgic examples that shaped his vision. His determination to fill this gap is what sparked the project.

The game's narrative centers on preventing the enigmatic Paintress from unleashing death once more. Its environments, such as the gravity-defying Flying Waters, promise to be as captivating as its story.

Expedition 33's combat demands quick reflexes. While actions are input in a turn-based manner, players must react swiftly to enemy attacks to defend successfully. This design has drawn comparisons to Persona, Final Fantasy, and Sea of Stars.

Broche expressed surprise at the overwhelmingly positive reception. While anticipating interest from turn-based fans, he hadn't expected such enthusiastic support.

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. He emphasized that the game is not a direct copy but rather a reflection of his personal gaming history and evolving creative preferences. He also highlighted Persona's influence on camera movement, menu design, and dynamic elements, while maintaining a distinct art style.

In the open world, players have complete control over their party, switching characters freely and utilizing unique traversal skills to solve environmental puzzles. Broche expressed his desire for players to experiment with character builds and combinations.

The development team's goal, as stated on the PlayStation blog, is to create a game that resonates deeply with players, much like the classics that inspired them.

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