Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has made a remarkable impact in the gaming industry, surpassing five million copies sold and achieving significant recognition at the Golden Joystick Awards. This success mirrors the record set by Baldur’s Gate 3 in 2023, a title that also made waves in the gaming community. In a recent interview with Radio Times Gaming, creative director Guillaume Broche shared his thoughts on the unexpected trajectory of the game.
Reflections on Success
Broche expressed his surprise at the game’s popularity, stating, “I think people don’t really realize that, now it’s become big, but before the launch, it was not supposed to be big.” He emphasized a collective sentiment among the team that while they anticipated the game would be enjoyable, they did not foresee its massive success. “It’s going to be cool. It’s not going to be big, it’s going to be cool,” he remarked, reflecting on the current phenomenon surrounding the title.
Ben Starr, who lent his voice to the character Verso, echoed Broche’s sentiments, noting that the game was never intended to achieve such heights. “It was never intended to be as big as it is,” Starr explained. He attributed the game’s cultural resonance to its authenticity, suggesting that this honesty has resonated deeply with players. “A lot of people have bought into that,” he added.
After a brief moment to celebrate their achievements, Starr continued, “No one expected those numbers, and we’ve all just been messaging each other thinking, this is, well, this is just silly.” His tone conveyed a mix of disbelief and excitement, highlighting the unexpected nature of their success.
As Clair Obscur continues to gain momentum, expectations are high for its future. Following its triumph at the Golden Joystick Awards, the game is poised to make a significant impact at The Game Awards 2025, where it has garnered a record number of nominations. The gaming community eagerly anticipates the results, which will be revealed on December 11.
