The development team behind critically acclaimed turn-based RPG Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 recently visited the headquarters of Japanese gaming giant SQUARE ENIX for what was described as a “rich exchange” of creative ideas. French studio Sandfall Interactive, whose 2025 release has drawn widespread comparisons to classic Final Fantasy titles, was invited to tour SQUARE ENIX’s offices and engage in discussions with employees.
The visit is a big nod to Clair Obscur‘s success and impact on the RPG genre. Since its release, Expedition 33 has become a Game of the Year contender, praised for modernizing classic mechanics while keeping the spirit of beloved 1990s and early 2000s JRPGs alive.
“The purpose of the visit was for a rich exchange between the two companies,” read an official statement, though specific details of their discussions remain limited. Social media posts from both teams framed the event as one of mutual respect and admiration.
Sandfall Interactive has made no secret of their inspiration from SQUARE ENIX’s legendary RPGs. Expedition 33 features a combat system that blends traditional turn-based mechanics with active elements, reminiscent of games like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger, but with modern innovations.
The meeting comes at an interesting time for the RPG genre. While SQUARE ENIX has moved its flagship Final Fantasy series toward more action-oriented gameplay in recent years, Expedition 33 has found massive success by returning to classic turn-based roots, offering what many fans describe as an experience that captures the magic of earlier SQUARE ENIX titles.
The French developers didn’t stick to just SQUARE ENIX on their Japanese tour. They also visited Kojima Productions, hinting at a broader effort to connect with Japanese developers who have influenced their work.
What makes this visit especially meaningful is the journey of Sandfall Interactive from being fans of SQUARE ENIX games to creating their own successful RPG that stands alongside the works of their inspirations. Expedition 33 has sold remarkably well, establishing Sandfall as a significant new voice in the RPG landscape.
