Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is already making waves as one of the top indie games of 2025, and now its creative mastermind, Guillaume Broche, is opening up about the early gaming experience that inspired his path as a game developer.
In a recent interview with The Washington Post, Broche revealed that the first JRPG he ever played was Final Fantasy VIII — a defining experience that planted the seeds for his artistic vision in Expedition 33. Broche played the game as a child alongside his brother, despite barely being able to read at the time.
“We didn’t understand much of the text,” Broche recalled. “So we just kept pressing auto-attack — even on the first boss — and it was impossible to get past that fight. But we kept trying. It was magical.”
While Final Fantasy VIII might not be the easiest entry point into the genre, it left a lasting impact on the young Broche. The emotional storytelling, fantasy world-building, and challenging mechanics all played a crucial role in forming his understanding of what makes a role-playing game compelling.
That inspiration is clearly visible in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a turn-based RPG that blends surreal French art styles with traditional JRPG systems. Since its launch on April 24, the game has garnered widespread acclaim on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, and is already being discussed as a serious Game of the Year contender.
A New Voice in the Genre
Broche’s personal connection to the genre elevates Expedition 33 from a homage to a heartfelt evolution of JRPG storytelling. The game has been praised for its dreamlike visuals, tight combat system, and emotionally resonant characters — hallmarks of the genre’s best.
It’s a rare moment when an indie debut feels like a landmark release, but Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is proving it’s more than just a passion project — it’s a love letter to the genre that raised its director.
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