Montpellier, France — A new video game has taken the gaming world by storm, capturing the fascination of players and critics alike. “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33,” developed by Sandfall Interactive, is not only a thrilling fantasy role-playing game; it is also a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration born during a time of global upheaval.
Created by Guillaume Broche, who previously worked for the renowned gaming company Ubisoft, the game’s journey began in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many, Broche found himself yearning for a creative outlet while confined at home. Drawing inspiration from beloved classics such as the “Final Fantasy” series, he envisioned a project that would merge nostalgia with modern gaming innovations. The result was “Expedition 33,” which has since achieved remarkable success, selling over a million copies within the first three days of its release.
Set in the fantastical world of Lumiere, the game’s narrative revolves around an enigmatic entity called The Paintress, who annually diminishes the population by erasing individuals of a specific age. Players embark on a quest to confront this mysterious figure, tasked with uncovering the truth behind her actions. The game’s unique aesthetic, reminiscent of 19th-century France, combines immersive storytelling with traditional turn-based battle mechanics, crafting a rich experience that has resonated with players.
Recruitment for the project unfolded in an unconventional manner. Broche turned to social platforms like Reddit, reaching out to potential collaborators in the midst of lockdowns. Jennifer Svedberg-Yen, an aspiring voice actor in Australia, stumbled upon Broche’s call for talent. Initially auditioning for a different character, she ultimately became the lead writer, showcasing her versatility in a project that encouraged all team members to “wear many hats.”
After departing Ubisoft, Broche established Sandfall Interactive, rallying like-minded individuals passionate about the project. With support from publisher Kepler Interactive, the team expanded to around 30 members, many of whom were sourced in similar fashion. Composer Lorien Testard, who had zero gaming industry experience, was discovered through music-sharing platforms. This recruitment strategy, combined with an element of serendipity, proved instrumental in shaping the game.
The collaborative approach taken by the team has been a cornerstone of the game’s development. Broche’s keen instinct for talent allowed him to build a cohesive group aligned in vision and ambition. “We shared the same inspirations and influences,” he noted, which facilitated a smooth creative process.
The production quality of “Expedition 33” rivals that of much larger studios, thanks in part to advancements in game development tools that enhance efficiency. The talent pool was further enriched by the participation of well-known actors, including Charlie Cox and Andy Serkis, who brought significant star power to the project.
While the studio occasionally relied on external specialists for various tasks, Svedberg-Yen emphasized that the core team was deeply invested, often stepping outside their usual roles to contribute. “The amazing thing about this team, mostly composed of juniors, is their outstanding commitment and talent,” Broche stated. “How we managed to pull this off still baffles me, but it all came together.”
As “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33” continues to gain traction, its success represents not just a victory for its creators but also a hopeful narrative about collaboration and creativity thriving in challenging times. The game’s captivating story and unique gameplay elements have sparked a resurgence in interest for turn-based RPGs, proving that innovation can blossom even in adversity.