Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s Big Win at The Game Awards
Last weekend, French President Emmanuel Macron celebrated the success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 after it won Game of the Year at The Game Awards. This title from Sandfall Interactive made history by taking home nine awards, the most in one show. It triumphed over heavy hitters like Death Stranding 2 and Hades 2, claiming accolades for best narrative, best music, and best performance.
Macron shared his excitement on Instagram, noting how proud he was of this achievement for France. “A historic first for a French title!” he wrote, highlighting the talent behind the game and expressing hope for future generations.
This isn’t the first time Macron has praised Sandfall Interactive. When the game sold one million copies in just three days, he also celebrated this milestone on social media. His comments reflect his appreciation for video games as a part of France’s culture and economy, despite past remarks linking games to violence. He later clarified, stating, “I see video games as an opportunity for our youth.”
User reactions to Macron’s posts were mixed. Some were excited, while others reminded him of his previous criticisms about the influence of games on youth. This duality highlights the ongoing debate about video games in society.
As for Clair Obscur, it debuted in April and quickly became a sensation, selling five million copies by October. IGN rated it 9/10, calling its story gripping and its combat system brilliant. Its success can be partly attributed to savvy marketing, launching alongside Bethesda’s The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, yet standing out on its own.
At the awards, director Guillaume Broche expressed gratitude to his team and acknowledged the contributions of countless creators who share their knowledge online.
In addition to the awards, Sandfall announced new DLC and a major update introducing fresh challenges, enhancing the game’s appeal to fans.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is more than just a game; it’s a cultural touchstone reflecting modern gaming’s rise in popularity and its importance in today’s society. For more on this story, you can visit IGN here.
