- Game Pass helped Expedition 33 reach players who wouldn’t have given it a chance.
- The turn-based RPG is the biggest 3rd party launch on the Game Pass in 2025.
- Sandfall’s game has been a huge breakout with multiple award wins already.
When Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 was first revealed, fans were a bit skeptical about it based on its turn-based combat, as it’s not the most popular genre. However, it was an instant hit, and Game Pass might’ve helped its cause.
Microsoft has announced that Expedition 33 was this year’s biggest third-party launch on Game Pass. The game director has stated that Game Pass helped them by lowering the barrier to entry for players.
Why it matters: Sandfall Interactive made a title they loved and thought others would, too. They managed to hit the nail on the head, and Game Pass provided a gateway to an even bigger audience.
Based on how amazing the RPG is, there was no doubt it would be a hit. However, in a way, Game Pass did give it a push, as some people tried it first on the service, and then bought it on Steam later to support the studio.
It might put people (Turn-Based) who prefer more real-time action games off, but Game Pass lowered that barrier of entry.
– Guillaume Broche
The game director, Guillaume Broche, also thanked the fans, saying that it has been an unimaginable year. He stated that Microsoft’s subscription service allowed players who might never have tried the game to try it.
Yes, there wasn’t too much competition in the third-party space this year on Game Pass, but Expedition 33 was destined for success. It recently won 7 awards at the Golden Joystick, and is also the most nominated game at TGA.
Nonetheless, it has been an explosive year for Sandfall. Some of the studio members left Ubisoft, created a small studio to pursue their passion, and it has since become a magical experience to remember.
What are your thoughts on Game Pass helping Expedition 33 open up to more players? Let us know your opinions in the comments or join the discussion at the official Tech4Gamers Forum.
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News Reporter
Abdullah is an avid gamer who primarily plays single-player titles. If you can’t find him anywhere, he’ll probably be at his desk playing The Witcher 3 for the millionth time. When he isn’t playing games, he’s either reading or writing about them.
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