by K.Asante
At Gamescom 2024, I had the privilege of attending a behind-closed-doors presentation of Expedition 33, a French RPG (fRPG) developed by a small but incredibly talented team of just 30 people. As I sat through the hands-off presentation, I found myself repeatedly returning to the same thought: this game, with its remarkable level of polish and artistry, was crafted by such a small team. The quality on display was nothing short of astonishing and gave me much to ponder about the changing landscape of game development.
The Story
The narrative of Expedition 33 unfolds in a world where each year, a mysterious figure known as the Paintress inscribes a number upon a towering monolith. Those who match that age inexplicably turn to smoke, vanishing from the world. This chilling and unique premise sets the stage for a gripping journey that is both emotional and existential.
Our protagonist, Gustav—a character who bears a striking resemblance to the real-life developer who demoed the game—has only one year left before he reaches the fatal age. This urgency drives Gustav and his group of expeditioners to embark on a desperate quest to find the Paintress and, against all odds, put an end to this cruel fate. Along the way, players follow a path scattered with clues left by other fallen expeditioners, which slowly reveals the circumstances that led them to their unfortunate end.
The storytelling in Expedition 33 is incredibly compelling, featuring rich characters and a unique style that is rarely seen in today’s gaming landscape. Each character, each piece of dialogue, is crafted with such care that the world feels both familiar and hauntingly different. The game’s dark and somber aesthetic, combined with the interesting enemy creature designs, kept me glued to the screen during the presentation.
Combat: A Fresh Take on Turn-Based Battles
Combat in Expedition 33 is another standout feature that caught my attention. As someone who hasn’t historically been the biggest fan of turn-based combat, I found myself surprisingly drawn to the game’s innovative take on the genre. While it retains the core fundamentals of turn-based systems, Expedition 33 introduces dynamic mechanics that keep each encounter fresh and engaging.
One of the most intriguing aspects is the ability to actively block or dodge incoming attacks, adding a layer of timing and strategy that goes beyond the usual turn-based formula. Additionally, players can time counter attacks to inflict additional damage, reminiscent of mechanics seen in games like Super Mario RPG. Although I’m not too far into the Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remake, I can already see the comparisons people are making. It’s not just about taking turns but engaging in a rhythmic dance of offense and defense that demands attention and skill.
What I particularly appreciated was how the game encourages you to master these mechanics to succeed. It’s not merely about grinding levels and optimizing stats; it’s about being present in the moment, responding to threats in real-time, and making meaningful decisions that impact the flow of combat. The combat system feels both modern and nostalgic, appealing to long-time fans of turn-based RPGs while also being accessible to newcomers.
A Game That Stands Out Among the Crowd
Leaving the presentation, I was convinced that Expedition 33 could easily become my Game of the Year, regardless of when it finally releases. What struck me most was how different it felt from both its inspirations and the current slate of games it will be competing against. This is a title that dares to stand out, offering something fresh and deeply personal in a sea of increasingly homogeneous offerings.
This is further amplified by the game’s art direction. The use of color, light, and shadow creates a captivating “clair-obscur” effect (a fitting nod to the game’s title), evoking a sense of mystery and foreboding that perfectly complements its narrative. The soundtrack, too, plays a crucial role, with a hauntingly beautiful score that lingers long after the presentation ends. It’s clear that every aspect of the game has been thoughtfully designed to immerse players in its world.
A Day One Game Pass Win
One of the most exciting announcements regarding Expedition 33 is that it will be a Day One release on Xbox Game Pass. This could be a massive boon for Game Pass subscribers, as it allows a broader audience to experience this unique gem without the upfront cost. Given the quality and innovation on display, I hope this opportunity encourages more players to give Expedition 33 a chance. The potential for it to become a sleeper hit on Game Pass is huge, and I genuinely believe the developers have something special on their hands. By lowering the barrier to entry, Game Pass could serve as the perfect platform to showcase this innovative fRPG. It’s a smart move that will likely drive engagement and conversation around the game, perhaps even redefining expectations for what indie studios can achieve in the RPG space.
Release Details
Expedition 33 is set to release in 2025 on multiple platforms, including PC (Steam & Epic Games Store), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. With its availability on Day One through Xbox Game Pass, it’s positioned to reach a wide and varied audience eager for something new and exciting in the world of RPGs.
In conclusion, Expedition 33 stands as a testament to what small teams with big ideas can accomplish in the gaming industry today. It’s a game that not only pays homage to the rich traditions of RPGs but also pushes the genre forward in innovative ways. For fans of narrative-driven experiences, strategic combat, and hauntingly beautiful worlds, Expedition 33 is a title to keep a very close eye on.