Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Shines Alongside Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, Proving RPGs Can Coexist

In a whirlwind week for RPG fans, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 not only held its ground but soared, selling over one million copies in just three days despite launching alongside the surprise release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered. Published by Kepler Interactive and developed by Sandfall Interactive, this debut title proved that two distinct RPGs could thrive together, with their differences fueling a surge of interest in the genre.

A Tale of Two RPGs

The gaming world buzzed when Oblivion Remastered dropped unexpectedly on April 22, 2025, mere days before Expedition 33's release on April 24. Both titles, backed by Xbox and available on Xbox Game Pass at launch, sparked excitement and speculation. Could a newcomer from a small French studio compete with a remastered classic known for its sprawling open world and nostalgic appeal?

Kepler Interactive remained confident in Expedition 33's unique identity. The game's painterly art style, turn-based combat, and narrative-driven JRPG roots set it apart from Oblivion's open-world, Western RPG framework. Rather than competing directly, the two titles appealed to different facets of the RPG audience, allowing them to complement each other.

A Shared Spotlight

Player data revealed significant crossover, especially on Xbox, where many who played Expedition 33 also tried Oblivion Remastered. This overlap suggests RPG fans were eager to experience both games, rather than choosing one over the other. On Xbox, players spent less time per session on both titles compared to PlayStation and Steam, likely due to Game Pass encouraging quick sampling.

Expedition 33's success was remarkable. It sold 500,000 copies on launch day and reached one million within three days, earning universal acclaim as one of 2025's highest-rated games. Its blend of action-oriented combat, breathtaking visuals, and a gripping story struck a chord, with fans praising it as a modern JRPG masterpiece.

Oblivion Remastered, meanwhile, drew millions of players with its updated visuals and timeless charm, appealing to both veterans and newcomers. Together, the games created a rising tide that lifted the RPG genre.

Xbox's Role in Expedition 33's Rise

Xbox played a crucial role in transforming Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 from an indie project into a global hit. Showcased prominently in 2024 alongside major titles like Gears of War and Fable, the game gained visibility that amplified its appeal. Its inclusion in Xbox Game Pass made it accessible to millions, while its $50 price point offered value compared to pricier triple-A releases.

Xbox emerged as the primary platform for both games, hosting the majority of players compared to PlayStation and Steam. This dominance highlights Xbox's growing influence in the RPG space, driven by Game Pass's accessibility.

A "Barbenheimer" Moment for Gaming

The simultaneous launch of Expedition 33 and Oblivion Remastered echoed the 2023 "Barbenheimer" phenomenon, when two vastly different films released on the same weekend and both thrived. Kepler Interactive embraced the comparison, playfully acknowledging the synergy. The result was a win for RPG fans, who celebrated the chance to dive into two exceptional experiences.

A Bright Future for RPGs

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's triumph alongside Oblivion Remastered underscores the diversity of the RPG genre. By carving out a distinct "AA" space-high-quality yet accessible-Expedition 33 proved that innovative newcomers can shine even in the shadow of industry giants. As Kepler Interactive and Sandfall Interactive celebrate their million-copy milestone, the success of both games signals a vibrant future for RPGs, where varied styles and stories can coexist and thrive.