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Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

2025 · PC · PlayStation 5 · Xbox Series X|S · Role-playing game · Turn-based RPG · Action RPG

84 /100

6 scored sources · 5 countries contributing scores

Review consensus

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a striking, emotionally ambitious RPG that combines Belle Époque-inspired fantasy, memorable characters, superb voice performances, and one of the strongest soundtracks in recent years. Its turn-based combat gains unusual energy from timed attacks, parries, dodges, counters, and flexible character builds, though the real-time demands divide opinion: some critics find them thrilling, while others consider them tiring or insufficiently balanced. Exploration can feel linear, navigation is occasionally awkward, and technical polish is uneven. It is an excellent fit for players who enjoy Persona, Final Fantasy, Sea of Stars, or NieR: Automata and want a shorter, highly authored adventure.

Limited geographic coverage. Treat this score as an early indication.

Last researched: 2026-09-09

Pros

  • Exceptional art direction, worldbuilding, and soundtrack
  • Emotionally powerful story with compelling characters and strong performances
  • Inventive hybrid combat combining turn-based tactics with real-time reactions
  • Flexible party customization through weapons, Pictos, and Luminas

Cons

  • Combat timing mechanics can become exhausting or overly demanding
  • Exploration and navigation are sometimes linear or frustrating
  • Occasional performance, stuttering, lip-sync, and presentation issues
  • Some systems create excessive menu management or uneven difficulty

Review sources

13 sources found across 8 countries. This is not exhaustive worldwide coverage.

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