French President Emmanuel Macron has publicly praised the video game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, calling it “a shining example of French audacity and creativity.” This commendation followed the game’s rapid success, selling over 1 million copies within days of its release on April 24, 2025. Developed by Paris-based studio Sandfall Interactive, the game has garnered critical acclaim, boasting Metacritic scores of 93 on Xbox Series X/S, 92 on PS5, and 90 on PC.

A Unique Blend of Art and Gameplay
Set in a dark fantasy world inspired by France’s Belle Époque, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 offers a turn-based RPG experience enriched with real-time combat mechanics. Players lead Expedition 33 on a mission to end the deadly cycle imposed by the enigmatic Paintress. The game stands out for its artistic design, emotional storytelling, and innovative gameplay, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of France.

Community and Cultural Impact
The game’s official Instagram page expressed gratitude to players worldwide, highlighting its French roots: “Quelle semaine de folie – merci à toutes et à tous” (“What a crazy week – thank you to everyone”). President Macron responded to this post, acknowledging the game’s success and its embodiment of French creativity.

