A new RPG champion is rising, and it’s not from Tamriel. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has officially surpassed The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered on Steam’s Global Top Sellers list, solidifying its place as one of 2025’s breakout hits.
Launched just days after Oblivion Remastered’s surprise release, the French-developed Expedition 33 has stunned players and critics alike with its bold artistic direction, emotionally driven narrative, and innovative turn-based combat. Powered by Unreal Engine 5 and set in a Belle Époque-inspired fantasy world, it’s a refreshingly modern RPG that’s clearly struck a chord.
📊 Steam Rankings & Player Count: The Numbers Don’t Lie
Recent data shows Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 with over 117,000 concurrent players as of May 1st — eclipsing Oblivion Remastered’s 78,000 during the same window. While Oblivion still holds the higher all-time peak (216,784), Expedition 33 is closing the gap fast and currently dominates the top seller rankings.
Expedition 33 has taken over Oblivion as a global best seller on Steam and in total player count
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This success isn’t just digital. Developer Sandfall Interactive confirmed shortages of physical copies due to unexpected demand, signaling the game’s strength across platforms — especially consoles.
🧠 Critics Are Impressed
According to OpenCritic, Expedition 33 currently holds a 92 average score, positioning it among the top-rated games of the year. Reviewers praise its hauntingly beautiful environments, hybrid real-time and turn-based combat, and story-driven progression.
⚔️ Why It’s Outpacing Oblivion Remastered
Despite Oblivion’s brand recognition and loyal fanbase, Clair Obscur offers a fresher experience:
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Modern Game Design: Built for next-gen consoles with fluid UI and performance.
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Artistic Originality: A surreal, painterly world that sets it apart from high-fantasy staples.
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Deeper Engagement: Rich storytelling and emotional stakes that resonate more deeply with modern audiences.
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Price Point: Currently 10% off on Steam, giving it an edge for value-conscious gamers.
While Oblivion Remastered will undoubtedly continue to perform well, it’s clear that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is more than just a hidden gem — it’s a phenomenon. From player engagement to critical acclaim, the title is redefining what an indie RPG can achieve in a AAA-dominated landscape.
As both games continue to evolve through updates and community support, one thing’s certain: the RPG genre is thriving, and Expedition 33 is leading the expedition forward.