Video games are an art form, and this game proves it.
By Ameer Ammar
Clair Obscur Expedition 33 is one of those rare instances where a tiny new studio comes out of nowhere and delivers a game so good that it instantly gets into the GOTY discussion, if you've heard already how good this game is, it is even better than how much people hype it up.
Clair Obscur's gameplay is a blast, the idea of implementing real-time dodging and parrying into a turn based combat system is a stroke of genius and for people who aren't fans of turn based combat, this one change makes Clair Obscur perfect for everyone that I'd recommend it even if you don't like turn-based at all. Traversal is the one aspect of gameplay that's quite basic but that's really a nitpick.
The story of Expedition 33 is an incredible work of art with characters that will forever be engraved into my memory, Gustave, Maelle, Sciel, Lune, Verso, and everybody else in this story that I won't spoil stands out as incredible characters that are incredibly acted, I don't even know how this studio managed to hire Charlie Cox (Daredevil) and Andy Serkis but they do an incredible job as well as the rest of the cast.
I highly recommend going into Clair Obscur as blind as possible as I did, the concept of the story will instantly hook you and I have no doubts that the mystery, twists and ultimate answers will have you thinking deeply about this tale and what it all means even months after you see its ending.
Clair Obscur Expedition 33 is one of the best games of the year, An incredible achievement by a tiny studio that has just cemented itself as one of the GOATs of the industry, whatever they do next, we will be there.
Accessibility Features:
Clair Obscur includes a dedicated accessibility menu with automation for offensive Quick Time Events (QTEs), easing the burden of precise timing during combat. You can repeatedly retry battles immediately upon defeat thanks to the new "Battle Retry" feature introduced in an update, this removes the need to reload manually and speeds up the pacing of encounters. The same update also added separate volume sliders for exploration and combat, giving players better control over audio levels. There's an autoplay option for dialogue outside of cutscenes, helping reduce manual progression during narrative moments.
Despite these useful tools, some limitations remain. Automation only applies to offensive QTEs; defensive actions like parrying or dodging still require manual input, which may be tough for players who struggle with reflex-based mechanics. There are also no visual cues or alternative indicators for QTE prompts, such as flashes or haptic feedback, meaning players with auditory or visual sensitivities might miss them. And beyond those features, there aren't many formal accommodations for players with visual, cognitive, or motor impairments.
On the upside, the developers have acknowledged the importance of accessibility and are exploring further improvements. Potential future enhancements could include options like holding a button for repeated dodges or parries, but no firm timelines have been shared yet.
FINAL VERDICT
This is strong GOTY contender that will probably end up winning at The Game Awards later this year, for $50 this is a no-brainer purchase that you should not miss.
Clair Obscur Expedition 33 - 10/10 - MUST-PLAY
