Allow me to introduce *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*, a game uniquely steeped in French artistry, crafted by the creative minds at Sandfall Interactive, based in Montpellier. However, this title’s journey to its current form has been anything but straightforward.
In a delightful turn of events, enthusiasts recently uncovered an old trailer from five years ago, shared by director Guillaume Broche on Reddit. This revelation offers a glimpse into the lofty ambitions of what was once branded an “ambitious AA project” featuring a “3D modern twist on the JRPG genre, highlighted by western-style characters.” Originally planned for a release on PC, with tentative ports to PS4 and Xbox One, its foundation was intriguingly different from the polished final product we now see.
This nostalgic trailer also unearthed the game’s previous title, *We Lost*, set against an imaginative backdrop of steampunk landscapes, intense boss battles, and elements of science fiction. It’s a fascinating insight into the game’s transformation!
While much of the trailer displays placeholder graphics, it provides an intriguing look into the development process. The concept of turn-based combat is evidently a central feature, featuring character names like Lune and Maelle that resonate through the ages.
Jennifer Svedberg-Yen, the lead writer, shares insights about the significant evolution the game’s setting underwent. “The gameplay would have been similar, but the narrative was entirely different,” she explained. “Originally, it took place in a steampunk Victorian England, filled with zombies, aliens, and other fantastical elements,” offering a brief glimpse of a world that almost was.
Discussions Broche had with potential backers encouraged a bold new approach, as Svedberg-Yen noted. This crucial moment inspired a complete narrative transformation, sparked by a striking painting that Broche admired and a personal short story Svedberg-Yen was developing about an artist who dives into her own colorful canvases.
Original draft trailer of the game
by u/Palmoleum in expedition33
*Clair Obscur: Expedition 33* has enchanted players, in part due to its genuine French essence—think humorous references to baguettes and mimes. It’s no surprise that even President Macron has hailed it as a “shining example of French innovation.”
Reflecting on my review for Nova Play, I noted, “Beyond the main storyline, the game radiates a delightful absurdity—and a hint of self-reflection in *Clair Obscur*, enhanced by its captivating visual style and innovative combat systems, setting this title apart.”
