Credits: Sandfall Interactive

Drawing was never my strong suit, but the protagonist of this game is too good at it... perhaps a little too good. That’s because the Paintress in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has a deadly talent. Every year, she paints a number, and when she does, every one of that age vanishes forever. If you're eager for the release of this dark fantasy RPG, mark your calendars for April 24, 2025, and check out this list of 2025 game releases.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 takes you into a Belle Époque-inspired world, where beauty meets fragility, and danger lurks beneath artistry. Paintresses, who paint a number on a monolith each year, cause every one of those ages to vanish. The protagonist, engineer Gustave, leads an expedition to stop this deadly cycle and save humanity from further loss. Developed by Sandfall Interactive and published by Kepler Interactive, this single-player RPG offers a mix of narrative depth, strategic combat, and jaw-dropping visuals.

Key Features

• Reactive Turn-Based Combat: The game reinvents turn-based RPGs by blending tactics with real-time elements. Players must master dodges, parries, and counterattacks to keep their team alive. Every decision and reflex matters, making battles as engaging as they are challenging.
• Unique Characters and Voice Talent: Meet a cast brimming with personality, brought to life by renowned actors like Charlie Cox (Daredevil), Andy Serkis (Gollum), and Ben Starr (Final Fantasy XVI). Each character has their own backstory, unique combat mechanics, and emotional arcs.
• Pictos and Luminas System: Customize your squad with powerful buffs and abilities through this equipment system. Combine them strategically to create highly effective combat setups tailored to your playstyle.
• Stunning Use of Unreal Engine 5: Leveraging the power of Unreal Engine 5, the game boasts lifelike lighting and high-fidelity graphics that elevate its presentation. Nanite and Lumen technology makes every scene a visual masterpiece.

RPG fans can’t stop talking about Clair Obscur – and for good reason! With its dark story, immersive combat, and creative design, this game has it all. Early previews have praised its emotional depth, smooth mechanics, and the perfect mix of nostalgia and modern flair. Critics are already calling it a game that could redefine the classic turn-based genre while delivering a cinematic experience that feels fresh and exciting.

With its unique look, layered gameplay, and unforgettable story, Clair Obscur is shaping up to be a must-play adventure. Pre-order your copy now and get ready to dive into an epic journey this April!

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 RPG will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC through Steam and Epic Games. It is set to release on April 24, 2025, if you missed it. I found console copies available for pre-order on Amazon. 

Sandfall Interactive, an independent video game studio founded in France in 2020, specializes in creating high-quality games for PC and consoles. The studio focuses on delivering strong narrative experiences, featuring compelling stories, intriguing characters, and fantasy worlds inspired by French culture. To achieve these goals, the team uses advanced technologies like Unreal Engine 5 to push technical boundaries. Their first game, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is currently in development.

About Kepler Interactive

Kepler Interactive is a video game company and creative studio based in London. The company collaborates with developers worldwide to create innovative games that blend experimental design with distinctive art direction. Some of its well-known titles include Pacific Drive, Sifu, Rematch, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.

In addition to developing games, Kepler’s creative studio expands the gaming experience into areas like art, fashion, music, architecture, and design. For example, it develops lifestyle products and partners with artists, such as fashion designer Robyn Lynch.

Kepler focuses on exploring the creative influences behind games and the people who make them. By doing so, it aims to push boundaries, challenge perspectives, and elevate gaming as a medium.