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Clair Obscur Expedition 33: Biggest Xbox Game Pass Launch

Clair Obscur Expedition 33: Biggest Xbox Game Pass Launch
Clair Obscur Expedition 33 key art featuring characters and game logo

REDMOND, WA – Sandfall Interactive's critically acclaimed debut, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, has officially shattered records, claiming the title of the biggest new third-party game launch on Xbox Game Pass for 2025. This monumental achievement, measured by the number of unique users engaging with the title within its first 30 days of availability, underscores the game's immense appeal and the power of the Game Pass ecosystem.

Fresh off a triumphant sweep at the Golden Joysticks and poised for further recognition at The Game Awards, this turn-based RPG has captivated players worldwide, marking an extraordinary success story for a brand-new studio.

A Dream Realized: Sandfall Interactive's Unprecedented Success

The announcement confirms what many in the gaming community have already witnessed: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a phenomenon. Guillaume Broche, Creative Director at Sandfall Interactive, expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support. "This year has been so far beyond what any of us could have imagined," Broche shared, "and it’s down to how passionate and supportive our fans have been to make that a reality. It’s really nerve-wracking to be a new studio releasing our first game, but the support of everyone has really made everything feel like a dream.”

This massive launch highlights the game's ability to resonate deeply with players, propelling its unique blend of JRPG mechanics and French cultural themes to the forefront of the gaming landscape.

Xbox's Vision: Championing Innovative Experiences

Xbox recognized the potential of Expedition 33 early on, lending crucial support to Sandfall Interactive. Guy Richards, ID@Xbox Director, articulated the team's early conviction: “From the start, Sandfall’s ambition was clear and we really felt they wanted to create something truly special, something beyond expectations for the team. Once we played early builds, we experienced their gripping story, stunning visuals and the mix of JRPG mechanics with French cultural themes that felt fresh and distinctive. It’s the kind of experience we knew Xbox players would love to discover.”

Xbox's commitment included early announcements in Summer 2024 and a dedicated Developer_Direct video in January, instrumental in generating significant buzz and reaching a vast audience even before launch.

Game Pass: Lowering Barriers, Broadening Horizons

The integration into Xbox Game Pass on day one proved pivotal in Expedition 33's widespread adoption. Broche emphasized how Game Pass significantly expanded their reach, allowing countless players to experience the game who might not have otherwise. "The turn-based RPG genre has a lot of fans but sometimes it might put people who prefer more real-time action games off," he noted. "But Game Pass lowered that barrier of entry. They could just try it and see how it feels." This accessibility allowed "curious players" to delve into the enchanting world of Lumière, discovering unexpected enjoyment even if the genre wasn't their usual preference.

Embarking on Expedition 33: A Journey Through Dark Whimsy

Set in a whimsical fantasia with ominous undertones, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 tasks players with joining Maelle, Gustave, Esquie, and their companions on a desperate mission. Their goal: to confront the enigmatic Paintress, a godlike entity who annually erases the city's eldest cohort, their ages ticking down year by year. With the Paintress poised to decree "33," the expedition must act now to break the cycle of death.

The game masterfully evolves classic turn-based RPG combat with innovative real-time mechanics:

  • Reactive Turn-based Combat: Engage in battles where real-time actions enhance strategic decisions.
  • Dynamic Interaction: Dodge, parry, and counter enemy attacks in real time to chain devastating combos.
  • Precision Targeting: Utilize a free-aim system to pinpoint enemy weak points, maximizing damage.
  • Deep Customization: Craft unique builds for your Expeditioners through gear, stats, skills, and character synergies.

Rendered in stunning Unreal Engine 5, the world is a hauntingly beautiful realm inspired by Belle Époque France. Players explore breathtaking landscapes, from the Island of Visages to the Forgotten Battlefield, uncovering secrets, hidden quests, and recruiting special companions to unlock new travel methods and secret areas on the World Map. All of this is underscored by a heartbreakingly evocative soundtrack that deepens the narrative's emotional impact.

Join the Ranks: Expedition 33 Awaits

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 stands as a testament to the innovative and diverse experiences Xbox Game Pass aims to support, empowering developers of all sizes to reach a global audience. If you haven't yet joined the critically acclaimed adventure, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is available now on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud Gaming. As an Xbox Play Anywhere title, it offers seamless progression across devices and is included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate on day one.