“I’m about to give you the best nine minutes of your life,” Ben Starr enthusiastically declares as he prepares for a quick-fire interview during a press junket for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Starr, known for his role as Clive Rosfield, sits alongside Jennifer English, who gained fame as Shadowheart in the critically acclaimed game, Baldur’s Gate 3.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a turn-based RPG that draws inspiration from classic series such as Final Fantasy and Persona. Starr, an avid fan of the Final Fantasy franchise long before taking on the role of its sixteenth (or so) protagonist, finds a natural connection to the game. “How can you not put the spirit of Final Fantasy into this role?” he remarks, highlighting the deep-rooted influences of iconic RPGs that have shaped the gaming landscape.
Starr emphasizes that the creative team behind Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 consists of passionate individuals who understand their audience. “RPGs exist in the veins of this game,” he explains. “The team has been influenced by those historic, monolithic RPGs that shaped so many of us that are our age, the age of Expedition 33. It’s a game made by people who love the people they’re making the game for.”
Despite Starr’s extensive background in RPGs, English offers a refreshing perspective, admitting her limited experience with the genre. “I haven’t played any old-school JRPGs yet,” she shares. “I’m very lucky that the wonderful team at Sandfall has made an Easy Mode at my request. I’m not really interested in fighting, or it’s more that I’m not very good at it. So it’s for people like me.”
Starr jokingly refers to the Easy Mode as the “Jennifer English Memorial Story Mode,” eliciting a surprised look from English. “We can still remember you while you’re alive,” he adds, explaining the playful title. This light-hearted banter highlights the camaraderie between the two actors as they promote inclusivity in gaming.
The inclusion of a Story Mode in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is not a novel concept; the Persona series has featured a Safe Mode since Persona 4 Golden, allowing players to instantly revive during battles. While the addition of ‘safe’ modes can spark debate among gamers, it is heartening to see developers prioritize options that cater to a broader audience. Celebrities like English advocate for Story Mode as a valid way to engage with games, making them more accessible.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is set to launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC on Thursday, April 24, 2025. With its rich storytelling, engaging gameplay, and a commitment to inclusivity, this game is poised to attract both newcomers and seasoned RPG fans alike.
