
The game's setting, inspired by Belle Époque France, greatly influences its visual and thematic elements. The Belle Époque period was characterized by qualities such as experimentation, diversity, innovation, culture, and art1. This era serves as a significant source of inspiration for the game's world-building and aesthetic design.
Visually, the game features an enchanting realm populated by surreal adversaries and breathtaking landscapes, reflecting the artistic and cultural aspects of the Belle Époque era. This influence can be seen in the game's environments, character designs, and overall artistic direction.
Thematically, the game explores the concept of a society facing the threat of the Paintress, who paints death, and the journey of Expedition 33 to break this cycle. The themes of life, death, and the passage of time are central to the game's narrative, evoking the introspective and philosophical aspects often associated with the Belle Époque period.
Additionally, the game's real-time mechanics and turn-based combat system offer an innovative and immersive gameplay experience, reflecting the spirit of experimentation and innovation that defined the Belle Époque era.
In summary, the setting of Belle Époque France influences Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's visual and thematic elements by providing a rich cultural, artistic, and historical context for the game's world, narrative, and gameplay mechanics.

The main objective of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is to lead the members of Expedition 33 on their quest to destroy the Paintress, a mysterious figure who, once a year, wakes up and paints a number on her monolith, causing everyone of that age to turn into smoke and fade away. As the number she paints each year keeps decreasing, the ultimate goal of the game is to stop the Paintress and break her cycle of death. Players will explore a world inspired by Belle Époque France, battle unique enemies, and engage in a turn-based RPG with real-time mechanics.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is set to release in October 2025 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store4. The game will also be available via Xbox Game Pass.