5 Best Video Games Like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

September 7, 2026 - 02:59

If you have finished Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and find yourself wanting more of that specific mix of turn-based combat, melancholic atmosphere, and painterly visuals, you are in luck. There are several titles out there that share a similar DNA, even if they approach the formula differently. Here are five games that should scratch that itch.

First up is Sea of Stars. This indie darling takes the classic Chrono Trigger formula and runs with it. You get timed button presses during attacks and blocks, which makes the turn-based fights feel more active and engaging. The story is a lighter, more hopeful adventure compared to the grim premise of Expedition 33, but the gorgeous pixel art and the focus on exploration and puzzle-solving in the overworld give it a similar sense of wonder and discovery.

For something with a heavier narrative and a more gothic tone, look at Persona 3 Reload. While it is set in a modern Japanese high school rather than a fantastical world, the core loop is the same: you spend time building relationships and managing your daily life, then dive into a mysterious tower to fight shadows in strategic, turn-based battles. The emotional weight and the focus on confronting death and loss are themes that will resonate strongly with fans of Expedition 33's story.

If you are after the strategic depth and the "boss fight as a puzzle" feeling, then Octopath Traveler II is a strong choice. It features a unique "Break" system where you have to exploit enemy weaknesses to stagger them, which requires careful planning and party composition. The game is actually a collection of eight distinct character stories that you can tackle in any order, and the HD-2D art style, which mixes pixel sprites with 3D environments, creates a beautiful, almost diorama-like look that is very distinct but equally artistic.

Another excellent option is Lost Odyssey, an older title but one that is often considered a hidden gem for fans of classic JRPGs. It was created by the same mind behind the early Final Fantasy games, and it shows. The combat is a straightforward, turn-based affair, but the real draw is the "A Thousand Years of Dreams" segments. These are short, text-based stories that you unlock as you play, and they are some of the most beautifully written and heartbreaking pieces of video game fiction you will find. If you liked the somber, reflective moments in Expedition 33, this will hit you right in the feels.

Finally, for a more recent and indie take on the genre, check out Crystal Project. This one is all about the job system and the open world. There is very little hand-holding, and the game encourages you to explore a vast, non-linear map to find new classes and abilities. The combat is challenging and requires you to think about aggro, positioning, and buffs, much like a proper MMO fight, but it is all turn-based. It lacks the cinematic story of Expedition 33, but it offers a deep, rewarding tactical experience for those who love to tinker with builds and overcome tough optional bosses.