10 AMAZING Recent Video Games NO ONE Saw Coming

2. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

clair obscur
Sandfall Interactive

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 isn't merely a fantastic game that few were talking about shortly before release - it's already one of the best-reviewed video games of all time and an RPG which can genuinely be called generation-defining, recency bias be-damned.

Outside of RPG enthusiast circles, the hype was rather muted for this one pre-release - a AA game with clear AAA aspirations, coming from a new, untested developer comprised of just 30 core team members, and suspiciously launching for just $50.

It would've surprised nobody if this was another Immortals of Aveum - a visually stunning yet over-familiar title that simply failed to distinguish itself in a crowded field.

But between its fascinatingly unique premise, brilliant characters, ludicrously addictive combat, and lush world, Expedition 33 is a major breath of fresh air in the RPG space - a truly grown up fantasy adventure that cleverly toys with player expectations throughout.

It's also a rarest of things - a really, really good RPG that can be beaten in around 30 hours.

Contributor
Contributor

Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.