Turn-Based RPGs Face Ongoing Challenges Despite Success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

What's Happening?

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a turn-based RPG, has achieved significant success, surprising many due to the current market preference for real-time action games. Guillaume Broche, the game's creative director, notes a historical shift away from turn-based games, particularly Japanese RPGs, since the rise of open-world games. Despite the resurgence of interest in turn-based combat through tactics games, real-time combat remains dominant in major RPGs. Broche highlights the Persona series as a successful example of turn-based JRPGs but acknowledges that the genre still faces prejudice.

Why It's Important?

The success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 highlights a niche yet persistent demand for turn-based RPGs in a market dominated by real-time action games. This reflects broader trends in the gaming industry, where innovation and nostalgia coexist. The ongoing preference for real-time combat in mainstream RPGs suggests that while turn-based games have a dedicated audience, they may struggle to achieve widespread appeal. This dynamic influences game development strategies and market positioning, affecting both developers and consumers.