If you’re here, and you’re reading this, bring it in for a hug. I’m in the same boat as you. Ever since I finishedClair Obscur: Expedition 33, I’ve been looking to fill that void.
Expedition 33is a special game, made by a talented dev team that took inspiration from other games in its genre and iterated on them to make something unique and unforgettable. The early GOTY favorite may go down as one of the better RPGs ever made.
But, as the game is a product of those who came before it (like all of the Expeditions before 33 paving the way for them…oh God), there’s plenty of other titles like it that you can play to see where the game’s history is rooted in.
Here’s a short list of a few other games likeExpedition 33that may scratch the gommage-shaped itch for you.
More games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Final Fantasy X/X-2 Remaster
Long, deep, emotional storyline rooted in family issues? Check. Turn-based JRPG? Double-check. The HD remaster of PS2 classicFinal Fantasy Xis widely available on basically everything, and it should be at the top of your list if you haven’t played it before. Or just even if you haven’t in a long time.
Cassette Beasts
This recent indie hit combines JRPG turn-based gameplay withPokémon-like monster catching and leveling for a true sleeper gem, offering a unique take on the genre that’s only gotten more popular in the scene in recent years.
Personal 5 Royal
The Persona series has been an RPG staple for decades, andPersona 5 Royalmay be at the top of the list for the franchise, featuring its iconic visual style, characters, and music.
Final Fantasy VIII Remastered
If you want to play the favorite JRPG ofExpedition 33creative directorGuillaume Broche, then look no further. While not as widely loved asFF7, FF10,or evenFF9,FF8deserves its place with its brethren among the best JRPGs of all time.
Metaphor: ReFantazio
Persona 5developer ATLUS followed up onP5Rwith this instant classic in 2024, instantly solidifying itself among the pantheon of GOATs in the genre with its mature, timely theme.
Sea of Stars
If you missed out on this wonderful game a couple years back, now’s as good a time as any, especially with itsThroes of the WatchmakerDLC releasing on May 20. It features similar reactive combat asE33in its delightful battle system.
Octopath Traveler
Square Enix’s gorgeous 2D RPG and its eight main characters with branching paths twisted the JRPG genre on its back when it launched as a Nintendo Switch exclusive in 2018. It’s now available on most platforms and is a must-play, especially forE33fans looking for more reactive turn-based battling.
Super Mario RPG
This lighthearted, Nintendo-flavored take on JRPG’s got remade in 2023 and is always a good time to revisit, or try out for the first time if you didn’t experience it either time around.
Lost Odyssey
Expedition 33creative director Guillaume Broche name-dropped this game as his inspiration for his title’s reactive turn-based combat, meaning it’s another spin onE33’sQTE style of battling.
