The Return of JRPG Gold: Expedition 33 Channels Dreamcast & PS1 Legends!

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey, as one of September 2025's most anticipated titles promises to reignite the golden age of JRPGs! Get ready to mark your calendars for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a breathtaking new turn-based RPG from Sandfall Games and Kepler Interactive that’s drawing immense comparisons to beloved classics from the Sega Dreamcast and original PlayStation eras.

Set to launch on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC—including a day one debut on Xbox Game Pass—this title is already generating significant buzz among genre enthusiasts.

For many, the mention of "Dreamcast and PS1 JRPGs" evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia and quality. Titles like Grandia, Skies of Arcadia, and Star Ocean set a high bar for immersive worlds, engaging characters, and strategic turn-based combat.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 aims not just to pay homage but to deliver a fresh experience infused with that same magic. Players can expect a deep, narrative-driven adventure that feels both familiar and entirely new.

At its core, Expedition 33 features an innovative turn-based combat system.

While details are still emerging, it’s designed to be dynamic and engaging, building upon the "active time battle" systems popularized by the genre's greats. This ensures that every decision in battle is meaningful, requiring strategic thinking and timely execution. Beyond combat, the game promises a rich world to explore and a compelling cast of characters to meet.

The game's narrative is particularly intriguing.

Set in a visually stunning, French impressionism-inspired world, players will find themselves in a perilous land where a formidable entity known as "The Paintress" systematically erases people from existence once a year. Humanity’s last hope rests with a group of intrepid heroes who embark on "Expedition 33," a desperate mission to reach and confront The Paintress before she brings about ultimate oblivion.

This unique premise, combined with a striking art direction, creates a truly unique atmosphere.

With its ambitious scope, evocative art style, and commitment to delivering a modern JRPG experience rooted in classic design principles, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is shaping up to be a standout release.

The fact that it will be available day one on Xbox Game Pass for Xbox Series X|S and PC, alongside its PS5 release, makes it incredibly accessible. As September 2025 approaches, the anticipation for this potential masterpiece will only continue to grow. Get ready to dive into an epic that promises to capture the hearts of JRPG fans old and new.