Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Director Explains How FromSoftware Inspired the Game’s Storytelling Philosophy

Sandfall Interactive creative director Guillaume Broche has revealed that FromSoftware's storytelling style played a major role in shaping the narrative of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. While the RPG features traditional cutscenes and a more accessible plot than games like Dark Souls or Elden Ring, Broche said he intentionally avoided explaining every mystery, encouraging players to piece together the story on their own.

Speaking during a recent interview, Broche explained that one of his favorite aspects of FromSoftware's games is how they trust players to uncover the lore themselves rather than relying on constant exposition. He recalled finishing Souls titles without fully understanding every detail, yet still finding the experience unforgettable. That philosophy influenced Expedition 33, where the main narrative remains clear, but many deeper themes, character motivations, and hidden connections are left open to interpretation. Broche summarized his approach by saying, "I didn't want to spoon-feed the player all the answers."

According to the director, the goal was to strike a balance between cinematic storytelling and player-driven discovery. Unlike FromSoftware's games, which often communicate their stories through item descriptions and environmental details, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 presents a more straightforward narrative while still rewarding attentive players who analyze dialogue, symbolism, and optional content. Broche believes this approach makes the world feel richer because players actively participate in understanding its mysteries instead of simply receiving every explanation.

The comments offer fresh insight into the creative influences behind one of the most acclaimed RPGs of recent years. Although Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 draws inspiration from classic Japanese RPGs in its combat and presentation, Broche's admiration for FromSoftware's storytelling demonstrates how the studio blended ideas from multiple genres to create its own identity. Rather than copying the Souls formula, Sandfall Interactive adopted its philosophy of respecting players' curiosity—allowing the game's biggest revelations to emerge through exploration, reflection, and personal interpretation.