I Don’t Like Turn-Based Games—But Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Changed My Mind

Is this the Best turn-based game for action gamers 2025?

I’ll be honest: I’ve never been a fan of turn-based games.

There’s just something about waiting for your turn that always made the combat feel slow, disconnected, and… well, not for me. So when I first saw Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, I appreciated the beautiful visuals and the unique art style, but I was ready to move on—until I started hearing people rave about it.

So I gave it a chance.

And six hours later, I’m here writing this because I need to tell more people about this game. Especially people like me—gamers who usually skip anything with “turn-based” in the description.

Expedition 33 - best turn-based game of 2025?

A Living Painting with Soul

Right from the moment you launch the game, Clair Obscur makes a statement. The menu screen alone feels like a moment worth sitting in. The music is beautiful, haunting, and cinematic. You can already feel the emotion the game is going to carry before even pressing "New Game."

Then you step into the world… and wow.

The environments feel like you’re walking through a surreal oil painting. The transitions between areas happen on this board-game-like overworld, where you move your character across different zones like you're part of some artistic dream. It’s unique, and more importantly—it’s fun to just exist in this world.

Turn-Based… But With Real-Time Energy

Let’s talk combat—because this is where Expedition 33 completely flipped the script for me.

Yes, the combat is turn-based. But it doesn’t feel slow or detached. It’s surprisingly fast and interactive. You’re not just sitting and waiting during the enemy’s turn. You can dodge, jump, and even parry incoming attacks. That one change makes the experience feel alive and responsive. There’s real-time tension, and it keeps you on your toes every second.

It blurs the line between action-RPG and traditional turn-based combat, and honestly? It works. So, is it the Best turn-based game for action gamers 2025? I think it is!

A Story That Feels Important

But it’s not just style and flashy mechanics. The story, although in the beginning I did not understand one bit, it is already pulling me in—and I’m only six hours deep.

There’s a strong sense of purpose to everything. The characters feel grounded and well-written. The world is mysterious but not confusing. And the themes—sacrifice, fate, resistance—hit hard. Combine that with a hauntingly beautiful score that weaves through every moment, and you’ve got something genuinely special.

Final Thoughts

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a game I never thought I’d enjoy. But now? I can’t wait to play more.

If you’re someone who usually avoids turn-based games, this might be the one to change your mind. It did for me. And if you’re already a fan of the genre? You’re in for a treat.

I’ll be continuing my playthrough and will post a full review once I’ve finished the game. But for now, take this as a strong recommendation—Clair Obscur is something truly different. And it deserves your attention.

📺 Watch my first impressions on YouTube HERE

🎮 Played on: PS5

⏱️ Time played: 6 hours

Have you played Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 yet? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!