Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has emerged as a remarkable success story in 2025, achieving over 785,000 Steam sales in its first week. This debut by Sandfall Interactive has surpassed sales for established JRPGs like Metaphor Re:Fantazio and Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth. Market analyst Rhys Elliot notes the game fulfills a long-standing desire among RPG fans for a realistic, modern take on the genre reminiscent of classic titles. Unlike other recent RPGs that have shifted to stylized graphics or action-oriented gameplay, Expedition 33's success highlights a demand for traditional elements in gaming.
There was also an opening for a modern, realistic-looking JRPG. If you asked Final Fantasy fans from the late '90s/early '00s what the ideal version of a JRPG should look like, it'd be something like this.
Rhys Elliot, head of market analysis for Alinea Analytics, said the success of Expedition 33 is significant because it has given RPG fans something they always wanted.
Expedition 33's overwhelming sales signal a return to classic RPG elements that resonate strongly with long-time fans, contrasting with recent trends in the genre.
Developer Sandfall Interactiveâs debut title, Expedition 33, not only excels in sales but also redefines expectations for modern JRPGs, outperforming industry giants.
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