French Game 'Clair Obscur: Expedition 33' Sweeps 2025 Game Awards with Nine Wins

The French video game "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33," developed by Montpellier-based Sandfall Interactive, triumphed at the 2025 Game Awards in Los Angeles, winning a historic nine awards including the prestigious Game of the Year. Nominated thirteen times across eleven categories, it outperformed renowned titles such as Red Dead Redemption 2 and Elden Ring.

This acclaimed game features innovative combat systems and a unique artistic style inspired by Belle Époque Paris, set in a post-apocalyptic universe. Created by a small team of around 30 employees led by Guillaume Broche, previously of Ubisoft, the title demonstrates the growing influence of AA games that blur the line between indie and AAA categories.

Upon release, Clair Obscur sold 500,000 copies within 24 hours and reached five million sales in just one month, illustrating rapid commercial success. The development had a budget estimated between $20 and $30 million and benefited from publisher Kepler's support, illustrating effective resource use by a modest-sized studio.

This recognition at the 11th edition of the Game Awards highlights the resurgence of mid-sized French game development, reflecting a shift in the industry towards games that challenge traditional categorizations. The game also secured accolades for best independent game and best narrative, solidifying its cultural impact within the French and global gaming scenes.