Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is an incredible new game by French developers Sandfall Interactive, and it is AMAZING. This is not a light lift for you TTRPG folks who may want to emulate the game at the table, but that doesn't mean there isn't a LOT for you to mine for your own games without having to try and replicate this masterpiece.

 

Take home notes:

• Asymmetric design is awesome, and each character feeling like they're doing something unique and totally different is a great way to keep things interesting while finding combos and letting people have an experience that matches their preferred style of game while at the same table.
• Flawed characters are better than "good ones," because flaws give your characters things to challenge, overcome, or fall into to make their triumph over a struggle that much better.
• Slow. Drip. Knowledge to pace decision making and draw parallels or crossroads for certain characters based on information learned about the wider world or story of your campaign. This makes conflict both external and internal to the characters and resonates more than just "wow that was a tough combat!"
• Monoco is the best, you won't convince me otherwise.

 

Oh and good news, the team at Sandfall has already said that Expedition 33 is only one of the many stories they want to tell within the greater concept of Clair Obscur. THAT'S EXCITING!

 

----more----

Join the DMs After Dark Discord channel!

 

I made a Ko-Fi if you feel absurdly generous and want to help cover podcast hosting costs & all the upkeep. I'm still working on whether I want to offer anything special over there or just give my extreme gratitude (maybe some stickers or something in the mail) to those who donate, but no pressure whatsoever :)

 

Where to Follow Rene Plays Games:

LinkTree |  BlueSky | Threads | Instagram | Facebook | DMs After Dark

Rene's Games:

MECH | MECH Cities 2 | One Last Quest

email: RenePlaysGamesPod@gmail.com

 

Music in the Episode (in order of appearance):

Music by Tunetank from Pixabay