Expedition 33 has all the makings of a modern turn-based classic. After playing a few hours of Sandfall Interactive’s dark fantasy RPG, I can say that Expedition 33 grasps the melodrama of modern Final Fantasy and marries it with the tactical turn-based combat fans of that series have been craving a return to for decades.

This setup makes for a grippingly dark and oppressive world where the humans feel like powerless specks on the landscape, making rooting for our protagonists all the more satisfying. Despite that tone, no sacrifice is made in the fantastical beauty of the world, with the landscapes looking gorgeous with a great sense of culture.

With a confident display of substance and style, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is shaping up to be the evolution of turn-based combat done right. It’s too early to determine how the narrative potential will unfold, but Sandfall may have a special gem in its hands if the strong momentum carries through.

Expedition 33 is an upcoming title from Sandfall Interactive. Despite it being the independent studio's debut game, it finds itself in the rankings among many RPG fans' most anticipated list of games releasing this year.