A pair of ex-lovers discuss why they split up: one wanted children, the other did not.
And Clair Obscur is certainly a surreal and thought-provoking game, obsessed with the notion of death.
Annual expeditions are sent out to defeat her, but it’s a seemingly impossible task.
Is it selfish to not replenish humanity, or selfish to bring children into such a world?
And before death comes for us all, what’s the legacy you’ll leave behind?
Expectations should be set, however.
Truly, this is a gorgeous work of art.
Despite its name Clair Obscur is more shade than light.
The world map is particularly impressive, visually modernising archaic design.
Dungeon exploration does suffer as a result, lacking variety.
Thelack of a minimap is a curious decisiontoo.
On the one hand its omission leads to frustrating disorientation, especially in later labyrinths.
On the other hand, its inclusion may have underlined how limited each area actually is.
For anyone crying out for a modernised version of traditional Japanese-style turn-based combat, Clair Obscur is for you.
That means Clair Obscur is, essentially, a rhythm game.
And it certainly takes a beat to adjust to its tempo.
Dodging requires looser timing than parrying, but the latter is as satisfying as Sekiro once it clicks.
But that’s just the beginning.
Clair Obscur’s combat system has multiple layers.
And there’s more!
Characters collect numerous weapons each with elemental affinities and extra buffs, once levelled up.
Pictos are found dotted around the world or are rewarded after enemy encounters.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 accessibility options
Three difficulty options.
Automatic QTEs in battle.
Camera shake and motion blur toggles.
Of course, the best RPGs are those that marry mechanical and narrative depth.
There’s enough intrigue to keep you gripped, but initially combat drew me in more than plot.
Pacing is the main issue, then.
For much of the story I felt like an outsider, as frustrated as I was mesmerised.
A copy of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 was provided for review by Kepler Interactive.
