Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 makes history as Sandfall Interactive’s debut title sweeps categories at the Game Awards
A French video game studio has made history at one of gaming’s biggest nights, claiming an unprecedented number of trophies at the annual Game Awards ceremony in Los Angeles. Sandfall Interactive’s debut title, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, walked away with nine awards on Thursday evening, including the prestigious honor for best video game of the year.
The Montpellier-based studio’s founder, Guillaume Broche, took the stage at the Peacock Theater to accept the top prize, visibly moved by the achievement. The developer reflected on the unexpected journey that brought his small team to this moment, describing the timeline as surreal for everyone involved.
During his acceptance speech, Broche offered thanks to an unconventional group of mentors. He acknowledged the countless content creators who produce game development tutorials online, admitting his team relied heavily on these resources when starting out. The humble admission drew warm laughter and applause from the audience, highlighting the grassroots nature of the studio’s success.
A passion project becomes a phenomenon
The game itself tells the story of a small band of heroes fighting against overwhelming odds in a post-apocalyptic setting. What sets it apart is its distinctly French aesthetic, drawing inspiration from Belle Époque Paris through the fictional city of Lumière. Players navigate turn-based combat while experiencing an emotionally driven narrative that has resonated with audiences worldwide.
Since launching in April, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has sold approximately five million copies globally. The numbers represent a remarkable achievement for a first-time studio competing against established franchises and industry veterans. The game faced competition from high-profile releases including Death Stranding 2 from legendary creator Hideo Kojima and Nintendo’s Donkey Kong Bananza.
From Ubisoft employee to award-winning creator
Broche’s journey began in 2020 while working as a developer at French gaming giant Ubisoft. The concept for Clair Obscur started as a personal project, something he envisioned creating outside his day job. That same year, he partnered with former colleague Tom Guillermin to establish Sandfall Interactive in Montpellier, located in southern France.
The turning point arrived in 2022 when UK-based publisher Kepler Interactive offered a deal that provided crucial funding. This partnership allowed the small team to transform their ambitious vision into reality, giving them the resources needed to compete with major studios.
Nine categories, nine victories
- Best video game of the year
- Best narrative
- Best role-playing game
- Best music score
- Best art direction
- Best game direction
- Best performance
- Best independent game
- Players’ choice award
The sweep across multiple categories demonstrates the game’s excellence in various aspects of development. Industry specialist Benoit Reinier noted at the time of release that Sandfall managed to deliver something polished enough to stand alongside major titles, a rare feat for a debut studio.
A distinctly French touch goes global
Fans have embraced the game’s French identity wholeheartedly. At conventions and gaming fairs, players show up wearing striped mariner shirts and red berets, one of the most stereotypically French costume options available in the game. This visible enthusiasm reflects how the title’s cultural specificity became a strength rather than a limitation.
The soundtrack has emerged as a particularly beloved element, with players citing the music as essential to their immersion in the game’s universe. The combat system also introduces innovative rhythm-based mechanics that allow players to time defensive moves to parry incoming attacks, blending traditional role-playing elements with fresh gameplay ideas.
Recognition beyond gaming
The success has attracted attention from France’s highest office. President Emmanuel Macron congratulated the team in May, praising them for showcasing French creativity and boldness on the global stage. Plans are already underway to adapt the Expedition 33 story into a feature film, potentially bringing the game’s universe to an even wider audience.
The Game Awards ceremony itself reflected gaming’s expanding reach. Streamed across 30 platforms, including Amazon Prime for the first time, the event featured trailers for upcoming Star Wars and Tomb Raider titles. Celebrity appearances included Jason Momoa, who is attached to an upcoming Street Fighter film.
Nicolas Doucet from Team Asobi, last year’s winner with Astro Bot, emphasized the international nature of modern game development during the ceremony. He pointed out that nominated titles came from teams across the globe, representing diverse cultures and perspectives that enrich the industry.
For Sandfall Interactive, the nine awards represent validation of their approach and years of dedication. Standing with his team in a video message, Broche described the project as one into which they poured their hearts and souls, making the recognition all the more meaningful.
