20 Craziest Moments In Gaming In 2025
2. The Fallen Hero - Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
It's understandable why Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 bagged 2025's Game of The Year, due to its enrapturing story, innovative combat system, and exquisite aesthetic. Above all else, players genuinely cared whether the ensemble live or die, since the developers did all they could to flesh them out.
Sadly, the creators were counting on this when they offed the protagonist in the most tragic way possible. With Gustav destined to die before his next birthday, he takes a small team and prepares to hunt down and kill the evil entity who's cursed the land. Portrayed as a honourable warrior, Gustav has all the markings of a RPG protector, making his survival seem guaranteed.
That's why it's harrowing to see the resilient warrior meet his end before he's accomplished his task. Although it's not uncommon for a hero to die, nobody was ready to see the supposed lead of Clair Obscur to bite the dust in the first act. Not only is his demise not foreshadowed, his death is deliberately anti-climactic, making it more impactful.
Though Clair Obscur is gripping from beginning to end, nothing has the same oomph as Gustav's departure.