5/5 ★ – Aliliane's review of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.

Date beaten: 5/6/2025 Time taken: 50 hours in 9 days This is a work of art first and a game second, but most importantly an experience. It had me bawling my eyes out. I can’t recall the last time I cried this much over a video game. I love how it’s rich of symbolism, the amount of depth is unimaginable. Expedition 33 definitely exceeded my expectations and was worthy of all the praise it received. It explores themes of death, family and art… All three topics merging into one heartfelt masterpiece. I applaud everyone who worked on this game, thank you so much for allowing me to experience this. Grief is painful. Fantasy is intoxicating and reality is harsh… but we must see things as how they are, not how we wish to see them. Gameplay: 10/10 The gameplay is enjoyable, creative and challenging. Despite being turn based it’s immersive and forces you into paying attention to what’s happening because you must dodge or parry. Being allowed to use all of your party members in a single fight is also genius— the problem of neglecting party members is prominent in RPGs and this was an amazing solution. Soundtrack: 10/10 One of the best soundtracks I’ve ever heard in my whole life AND it’s meaningful?! The lyrics are extremely tied to the lore! Definitely my favorite thing about the game along with its visuals. Story: 10/10 So beautiful and tragic. I’m afraid I can’t put those one into words. It made me cry for hours to no end and it’ll affect me for the rest of my life. It’s philosophical so please don’t go through it empty minded only seeking gameplay. Visuals/Design: 10/10 The details, the creativity, the symbolism, the colors, where do I even begin? Raised the bar for fantasy game maps, honestly. Overall: 10/10 Peak fiction, absolute cinema… True art right there. Spoilers: The love Verso’s family had for him will forever live on, even if he’s not there anymore.