Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Targets Compact, Thrilling Adventure, Producer Shares

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is generating buzz in the gaming world. A recent interview highlights how its scope sets it apart from many sprawling modern titles.

In a discussion with GamesIndustry.biz, leaders from Kepler Interactive, the publisher behind Clair Obscur’s developer Sandfall Interactive, explored the game’s success and its unique position in the industry. Matthew Handrahan, Kepler’s portfolio director, emphasized one key distinction: the game’s concise playtime compared to typical AAA blockbusters.

“Shorter games can deliver more impact,” Handrahan remarked. “Like films, where many now stretch to two-and-a-half hours, players often want tighter experiences because life is busy.”

François Meurisse, Sandfall’s COO and producer, shared with GI.biz that the team designed Clair Obscur to be a “focused and intense” journey from the start.

“We initially estimated the main quest at around 20 hours,” Meurisse explained. “It’s closer to 30 now, or up to 40 if you explore. As a gamer, I value the excitement and joy a game brings over its duration.”

Data from HowLongToBeat estimates the main story at about 27 hours, with 41 hours for main and side content, and a completionist run at roughly 61.5 hours. While longer than some indie titles, it remains far shorter than many AAA giants or expansive RPGs.

Handrahan noted that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 “values players’ time.” He praised its lack of “unnecessary padding or bloated content added just to extend playtime.” Meurisse questioned whether a game’s length always reflects its worth.

“A game’s value isn’t tied to its hours,” Meurisse said. “Take Inside, a two-hour masterpiece that’s polished, intense, and even transformative for some.”

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Review - Screenshots

IGN’s 9/10 review of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 echoed this sentiment: “I completed the main story and some side content in about 35 hours. Its pacing is flawless, with no filler or dragged-out exposition slowing the journey.”

Clair Obscur stands out from typical blockbusters, signaling shifts in the gaming industry. Dive into the full interview on GI.biz for more insights. It’s clear this title sets a compelling standard for impactful games without excess.