Clair Obscur: Expedition 33; origins and influences: From a simple experiment to the foundation of a game studio
Guillaume Broche’s dream journey from hobbyist to creative director of one of the more promising RPGs.
In 2019, Guillaume Broche first opened Unreal Engine’s development tools, curious to see if he could learn their intricacies. At the time, he wasn’t a game developer, he worked in a creative and production-focused company, but he had a dream: to create his own game.
Like thousands of aspiring developers worldwide, he named his first project “Sample.uproject”, a generic placeholder, and began experimenting in his free time.
There was no predefined plan, just a passion for game creation. However, Broche had clear influences guiding his vision. His love for Final Fantasy VIII, IX, and X shaped his idea of a grand adventure, incorporating classic JRPG elements, turn-based combat, and the theatrical storytelling that defines Square Enix’s legendary franchise.
Even without formal development experience, Broche had a strong narrative concept—a world that inspired him and, eventually, a team drawn to his vision.
The birth of Sandfall Interactive
By 2020, Broche shared his early work with François Meurisse, who would later become his co-founder at Sandfall Interactive. Broche left his previous job to fully commit to what had become more than just a dream.
Initially, Meurisse believed the project would remain relatively modest, expecting it to be completed within a year with a small team of five or six people.
Little did he know that Expedition 33 would evolve into a full-scale RPG, becoming one of the most anticipated games of 2025. The project even attracted high-profile voice actors, including Andy Serkis (The Lord of the Rings) and Charlie Cox (Daredevil).
Despite its ambitious scope, Expedition 33 hasn’t required the massive workforce typical of modern AAA productions. Sandfall Interactive consists of just 30 developers based in Montpellier, supported by Kepler Interactive, a boutique publisher known for titles like Solasta II, Ultros, and Pacific Drive.
Even with its modest team size, the game’s high production values make it appear far larger than it actually is.
A classic JRPG with a unique French touch
Beyond its Final Fantasy inspirations, the team has skillfully integrated mechanics from other standout RPGs.
- Persona’s modern combat presentation influenced the game’s visual style.
- Sekiro’s dodge and parry mechanics became a core part of Expedition 33’s turn-based combat system.
Broche was captivated by the satisfaction of precise dodges and blocks, deciding to incorporate them into his game’s strategic battles.
A nod to humble beginnings
When Expedition 33 launches on April 24, 2025, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, its final Unreal Engine project file will still be named “Sample.uproject”—a tribute to its humble origins and the journey from passion project to full-fledged RPG.
With high expectations surrounding its release, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting RPGs of the year.
Follow MeriStation USA on X (formerly known as Twitter). Your video game and entertainment website for all the news, updates, and breaking news from the world of video games, movies, series, manga, and anime. Previews, reviews, interviews, trailers, gameplay, podcasts and more! Follow us now!