Path 05 · Turn-based RPG · Sandfall Interactive, 2025
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Each year a mysterious Paintress erases everyone of a certain age. An expedition sets out to stop her. Beautiful, sad and inventive.
Edition reviewed: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (2025).
Official artwork © Sandfall InteractiveWhat you do
Lead a party through painted landscapes and fight turn-based battles where well-timed dodges and parries matter as much as strategy.
Who it suits
Adults who like turn-based RPGs but want something fresh. The timing-based combat takes practice.
01The first hours
The opening in a Belle Époque city is one of the most striking in years, and it ends with a shock. Then the expedition begins, and so does the clever combat.
02Settling in
The middle mixes exploration of surreal, painterly regions with battles that reward learning enemy patterns. The cast is likeable and the music is superb.
03The long road
At around 35 hours it is long but not endless. Expedition flags are generous, which makes it easy to end a session cleanly.
Why it works
- Gorgeous art and music
- Fresh, active turn-based combat
- Moving story
Watch out for
- Parry timing can be strict
- Some areas are easy to get lost in
The score
Overall 4.7 out of 5 · Legendary · how we score
Our verdict
A bold, beautiful new classic. Plant a flag, and come back tomorrow.
Written by the Quest Lantern desk. Updated 22 October 2026. Facts were checked against the publisher and store pages at that date; prices and platforms can change.