Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 isn’t a dark world, as it blends humor and mini-games to lighten up its shattered world.

There’s no denying that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has surprised the entirety of the gaming industry. It’s been a few weeks since the release of the game, and it’s already one of the highest-rated ones we’ve seen in 2025.

On the surface, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 might look like any other RPG. However, beneath all of it, there’s a rich experience. Developer Sandfall Interactive has managed to integrate humor and mini-games into the overall narrative, not only for the sake of entertainment but also to depend on the character development and bring light to its dark world.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 balances darkness with humor

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You’ll not burst laughing to the point of tears in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, but the development team has sprinkled just enough humor to lift your spirits as you play. One of the silliest scenes in the game unfolds during a conversation between Esquie and Version about Francois, featuring the comically unforgettable “Whee” and “Whoo.”

That’s not all; another hilarious moment happens when Gustave loudly shouts a password at Gestreal, only for him to backtrack and offer an apology. Even some of the journal entries scattered throughout the game are giggle-worthy, like Expedition 66’s about Esuqiie giving them poisonous mushrooms and then breaking down in guilt.

Monoco stands out as one of the most comical characters, delivering deadpan humor and breaking into sobs amid the rubble of a collapsed building after hitting it too hard. Even Esquie is equally hilarious with his floppy movements and childlike innocence.

One of the biggest early twists in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is the death of protagonist Gustave by Renoir, shifting the spotlight to Maelle. Gustave’s death impacts the entire group and drives much of the narrative. However, right after his death, the game presents players with an absurd mini-game called Gestral Volleyball.

It’s rare to see a game nailing down humor in such a manner. (Image via Sandfall Interactive)

There is a lot of death in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and you’ll see bodies spread everywhere. It’s a bleak title that’s filled with violence, heavy moments, and death. However, Sandfall’s use of humor and minigames will be enough to make you chuckle through everything.

Is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 failing in Japan?

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 hasn’t sold well in Japan. (Image via Sandfall Interactive)

While Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is being hailed as a potential Game of the Year 2025 candidate, it’s been a failure in Japan. Reports from Famitsu suggest that the title sold only 9,825 units between its debut and May 4, 2025.

That seems like an absurd number, but we need to consider some facts. First, the data provided doesn’t include the game’s digital sales, so players who purchased Clair: Obscur Expedition 33 through Steam will not be included in this figure. Second, it’s unlikely that publisher Kepler Interactive has sent out enough copies of the game in Japan.

It’s hard to find physical copies of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 in the West, so there’s a chance that the same thing might be happening in Japan. This is probably the reason for its low sales. However, it’s interesting that an RPG with such strong Japanese roots is selling so poorly in the region.

With that said, what do you think about the humor in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33? Let us know in the comments below.