Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has never held back on what it draws from. This turn-based RPG, crafted by the talented folks at Sandall Interactive, proudly took home Game of the Year and a slew of other accolades during the 2025 Game Awards. It stands as a heartfelt homage to the many iconic RPGs that have paved the way. This homage shines through even brighter with the release of the new free “Thank You Update.”
Announced amidst the flurry of victory speeches at The Game Awards, this update unveils a brand-new level called “Verso’s Drafts.” Picture a whimsical expanse bursting with color and vibrancy—perhaps the liveliest environment we’ve seen yet in the game. While there’s a loose narrative thread, this new area primarily serves as a playful arena for players to gather fresh weapons and tackle some formidable bosses.
In these battles, eagle-eyed fans have caught subtle yet playful references to the classics that inspired Clair Obscur. When enemies launch their attacks, quirky text appears on-screen, clearly winking at RPG aficionados. Expect to see nods to Persona 5’s “You’ll never see it coming,” Final Fantasy 14’s classic “A test of your reflexes” from villain Zenos, and Shulk’s iconic line, “I’m really feeling it” from Xenoblade Chronicles—all signatures of Sandall Interactive just having a bit of fun.
This isn’t a first for Clair Obscur. The base game is brimming with similar homages to beloved RPGs of yesteryear. Skills and enemy attacks like “Shadow Bringer” and “Stormblood,” both direct references to Final Fantasy 14 expansions, have already delighted fans. These playful tributes are a testament to why Clair Obscur resonates so well within the gaming community. Sandall’s intent to craft a love letter to the legends of the genre has resulted in a game that comfortably stands shoulder to shoulder with its inspirations.
Final Fantasy’s legendary creator, Hironobu Sakaguchi, even gave a nod to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, praising its director for being inspired by iconic figures in the field.