Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 - PlayStation 5

I bought this game day one then later on I bought it again for a friend. This game is one of the best of all time. The story is amazing with beautiful music and gameplay. I still listen to the soundtrack to this day.

Expedition 33 is, by far, the best AAA-like turn-based RPG I’ve played since 2007’s Lost Odyssey (& even surpasses it in some ways). I’m not quite done with it (almost), & I can still say that. Actually, it’s been that long since we’ve had a AAA-like turn based RPG, period (Squenix & other AAA million $pending studios can learn a thing or two here in stepping away from action a wee bit in their RPGs, & EVOLVE turn based WITH action instead). Turn based isn’t dead. It can evolve. Sandfall Interactive SHOWS that! This wee little French studio of 30-something people put their passion & love into this game – writing, story, setting, their love of older turn based JRPGs, characters, battle system – all of it, and RAN with it. In fact, I’m very surprised this ISN’T a Japanese studio, because they took their love of older Japanese titles that implemented action into a turn-based battle system, such as Lost Odyssey, Shadow Hearts, & Legend of Dragoon, & evolved it tenfold. It’s a turn based system, with tricky Soul-like attacks that the player must dodge/evade, parry, counter, & let me say, some of these attacks are tricky, especially on some secret bosses. Another thing that seems inspired by a Souls game is when you rest at a save point, your potions are refilled & enemies re-appear on the map, so you can grind & LEARN some of the enemies’ trickier attacks. AND THE MUSIC! All I’ll say is, “Wow.” This is “Nier” caliber orchestra. I can go on and on, but if you love old school turn based RPGs, like Final Fantasy 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10, Lost Odyssey, The Legend of Dragoon, & others, then don’t sleep on this title. This is a one of a kind project that has evolved a turn based battle system. Hail Sandfall Ineractive! You created a masterpiece! I’ve some French in me, & let me say, I LOVE the French culture worked into this game. Gimme some more!

This is 2025 Game of the Year! The combat system, music, graphics, story, etc. are all amazing and very memorable. This will win GOTY. Mark my words. This year is packed full of great games, but this one, from a new studio, and with a team of 33 people, you can’t beat it. It’s very good. It’s one of those games you can’t put down.

This game right here is my GOTY!! I’m still in awe that this was a 30 team deal that got this masterpiece done! The story is refreshing, the combat invigorating and I haven’t been bored this entire time. It’s been a while since a game has had my full undivided interest! Can’t wait to see what else this magnificent team puts out!!

This is a wonderful game. The music, art direction, characters, and story are superb. The story is similar to that of a book you just can't put down. The combat is fun and fast with a parry/dodge mechanic that players will need to master to succeed. If you're someone who is not abfan of turn based games this might be the one to change your mind. Also, Esquie!!