Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is the debut RPG from new developer Sandfall Interactive. The game features a mature, emotional story and real-time augmented turn-based combat. You can check out our full review here. In this article, we want to give you everything you need to decide whether the content in the game may be right for you or a loved one.
Warning: Some of the content in this guide may lightly reference spoilers.
Violence
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 features combat filled with blades and magic. As their health decreases, characters often end up covered in blood and grime. There are scenes where characters are killed in gruesome ways. One character contemplates suicide. Characters are decapitated and shot in some scenes.
Sexual Content
While it’s never explicitly shown, characters discuss engaging in sex. It’s discussed off-screen. There is a brothel where characters could hear moans from if they step in front of it.
Some characters have alternate outfits, like bathing suits, that may be considered revealing.
Drugs and Alcohol
Alcohol is referenced in the game. One character mentions wishing they had wine, implying they wanted to self-medicate with it. In a later scene, the whole party drinks alcohol (minus an underage member, who requests apple juice)
Language/Crude Humor
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 uses profanity liberally and to great effect. I learned French curse words as part of the game’s dialogue. It’s often used when the characters are in dire circumstances or at their wit’s end.
Dark/Spiritual Content
Expedition 33 is, thematically speaking, dark and complex. The game deals intimately with the topics of loss, impending doom, and grief, along with the feelings and situations those experiences can bring.
Many of the creatures and characters in the game are magical. Lune is a mage who controls the elements. Sciel uses the equivalent of tarot cards to “foretell.” She also uses the moon and sun to deal damage.
Other Notes
When I say the game features complex themes, I mean it. I do not believe children will have the emotional maturity or lived experience to understand or appreciate much of what is referenced in the game. On top of that, the language and violence should preclude younger audiences from the game. Please use an appropriate amount of caution when deciding if this game is right for you or your loved one.