Introduction

You’ve finished the expedition, you’ve let all the tears out, and now you need more. I can relate—I loved Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and I want more of it! Sadly, a game like Expedition 33 ends, and it can be hard to find another title that echoes the same emotions. Luckily, you have us here at SunsetNerdVerse, and we’ve compiled 10 games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 for you. Even if some of these games are overdue for remakes (please make it happen, developers!), they remain fantastic titles in 2025—clearly inspiring Expedition 33 for good reason. Set aside some time; these adventures are long, but they’re worth the journey for any Expedition 33 fan.

10. Blue Dragon

Release Date: August 28, 2007
System(s): Xbox 360

With art by the late Akira Toriyama, this anime-themed JRPG stood out on the Xbox 360. Like Expedition 33, Blue Dragon avoids stale turn-based mechanics by incorporating charged attacks and dynamic gameplay. The story centers on unlikely heroes who carry the world’s hope. While it has a few flaws—like area lock-ins—it still holds up and is worth revisiting for its innovation and charm.

9. Legend of Legaia

Release Date: March 16, 1999
System(s): PS1

What do you get when you fuse a fighting game with a JRPG? Legend of Legaia. Set in a mist-covered world, Vahn must use martial arts-like commands to battle monsters. Every fight is unique due to its combo-based mechanics. Though it’s a classic from the late ’90s, it still deserves a remaster and a replay from JRPG enthusiasts.

8. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Release Date: March 22, 2019
System(s): PS4, PC, Xbox One, Stadia

While not a traditional RPG or turn-based game, Sekiro shares gameplay DNA with Expedition 33 in its reliance on timing, parries, and calculated attacks. Developed by FromSoftware, Sekiro is brutal, rewarding, and a perfect breather before diving back into another deep RPG. Mastering counterattacks feels just as satisfying as Expedition 33’s dodge-parry mechanics.

7. Atelier Ryza: Ever Darkness and The Secret Hideout

Release Date: October 29, 2019
System(s): Nintendo Switch, PS4, PC

The Atelier series blends crafting and turn-based combat, and Ryza’s entry adds more dynamic battles. Combat is fast-paced and team-based, keeping players engaged throughout. While visually and tonally lighter than Expedition 33, it serves as a refreshing palate cleanser after a heavy narrative experience.

6. Yakuza: Like a Dragon

Release Date: January 16, 2020
System(s): PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC

Like a Dragon reinvented the Yakuza franchise by switching to turn-based JRPG mechanics with real-time elements. You’ll need to time attacks and defenses to optimize damage, much like the skill-based rhythm of Expedition 33. Though set in a grounded world, the gameplay shares a surprising amount of common ground with Expedition 33.

5. Persona 5 (Royal)

Release Date: April 4, 2017
System(s): PS3, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series S/X, Xbox One

Persona 5 is a masterclass in turn-based strategy, blending tactical decision-making with story-rich experiences. Like Expedition 33, success depends on planning the right attacks and making optimal use of your resources. If you haven’t played Persona before, this entry is a stellar introduction and an excellent follow-up to Expedition 33.

4. The Legend of Dragoon

Release Date: June 13, 2000
System(s): PS1

This dark fantasy JRPG uses timed inputs in its turn-based combat, similar to Expedition 33’s QTE system. The Legend of Dragoon’s story and mechanics made it legendary in its time—and they still hold up. It’s a nostalgic title deserving of a remaster and a new audience.

3. Metaphor: ReFantazio

Release Date: October 11, 2024
System(s): PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox Series X/S

Story and gameplay merge perfectly in Metaphor: ReFantazio. From the creators of Persona, this title delivers narrative twists and turn-based combat full of customization. Its layered character-building via Archetypes ensures unique playstyles, and its tone will resonate with Expedition 33 fans craving a deep RPG journey.

2. Shadow Hearts

Release Date: December 12, 2001
System(s): PS2

This cult-classic uses a timing mechanic called the Judgment Ring to determine battle effectiveness—miss, and your attack weakens. Shadow Hearts shares a dark tone and mechanical similarity with Expedition 33, making it one of the closest spiritual predecessors. It’s unforgettable, and absolutely worth your time.

1. Lost Odyssey

Release Date: February 12, 2008
System(s): Xbox 360

The number one pick for good reason. Lost Odyssey, a major influence on Expedition 33, follows Kaim, an immortal warrior navigating lost memories and moral dilemmas. Its turn-based combat includes timing-based mechanics and deep character storytelling. If you want to understand where Expedition 33’s soul comes from—start here.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this list of 10 games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 helped you discover new titles or revisit old favorites. While nothing may fully match the unique spark of Expedition 33, these games prove that innovation and emotional storytelling continue to thrive in the world of RPGs. Stay tuned for more curated lists from us here at SunsetNerdVerse!

ーAaron