Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Hits 3.3 Million Sales in 33 Days — A New RPG Phenomenon

It sounds like a numerical prank, but it’s all real: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has officially crossed 3.3 million sales just 33 days after release. That’s not just a neat coincidence—it’s a defining moment for indie RPGs in 2025. Developed by a small team at Sandfall Interactive, the game launched into a crowded spotlight, going head-to-head with none other than Oblivion Remastered. And yet, it not only survived, it triumphed.

A Sales Pattern Too Precise to Ignore

The numbers are uncanny: 3.3 million copies sold in 33 days by a team of roughly 30 people. And yes, the game’s name already featured the number 33. Some are calling it fate, others a glitch in the simulation. Either way, it’s impressive. Even more so considering these are raw sales—not including downloads via Game Pass.

The Indie Formula That Worked

Clair Obscur blends tactical turn-based combat with real-time elements and an elegant, painterly art style inspired by Belle Époque France. It’s not just different—it’s captivating. Players are pulled into a surreal, story-rich world where characters like Maelle and Gustave move through battles like brushstrokes on canvas. It’s a gameplay and narrative fusion that’s rare in today’s RPG landscape.

Competition Beaten, Critics Won Over

Oblivion Remastered was supposed to dominate headlines. Instead, Expedition 33 made its own. It surpassed one million sales within the first three days. It’s now sitting on a Metacritic average in the 90s and has even been acknowledged by France’s President Macron. For a debut from a small French studio, that’s monumental.

More Than Just Hype — A Lasting Impact

The praise isn’t just surface-level. Fans talk about the world design, the emotionally charged music (which landed on Billboard’s classical charts), and the unexpected depth. With Sandfall hinting at future expansions and updates, this is only the beginning for Clair Obscur. It’s not just a great RPG—it’s a cultural moment in the making.