Clair Obscur: Report Reveals Tiny Budget for Expedition 33
Expedition 33, a standout title for 2025, has garnered attention for its impressive performance despite a minimal financial input. Reports indicate that Sandfall, the game’s developer, operated on a budget of less than $10 million.
Tiny Budget for a Big Impact
The New York Times highlighted how Sandfall managed its resources effectively, opting for a turn-based structure instead of creating an open-world environment. This strategic choice allowed the studio to maximize its limited funding.
Creative Resource Management
- Budget: Under $10 million
- Development team: Approximately 30 core members
- Outsourced battle animations: A studio in Korea
- Game price: $50
- Sales: Over 5 million copies
Guillaume Broche from Sandfall expressed optimism about the potential for more titles developed under similar constraints. He mentioned that the studio now possesses the necessary technology to create quality games with small teams. However, he did not provide specifics on the technology being utilized.
Industry Perspectives on Game Development
Independent developer Billy Basso, known for his work on Animal Well, echoed similar sentiments. He emphasized the value of straightforward gameplay, arguing against the necessity for excessive content. “You don’t need to fill your game with hundreds of hours of checklist content,” Basso noted.
AAA Games Facing Sustainability Challenges
Some analysts have raised concerns regarding the sustainability of AAA games, primarily due to their escalating budgets. This trend necessitates higher sales volumes to recoup costs, creating pressure on developers.
Expedition 33’s success is evident in its market performance. It has not only broken Xbox Game Pass records but also secured nominations for 12 awards at The Game Awards, including Game of the Year. This achievement marks a record for the most nominations for any title in the show’s history.
External Support and Collaborations
Sandfall collaborated with external teams for various aspects such as marketing and localization, contributing to the game’s broader success. The credits of Expedition 33 feature a diverse array of talent, prompting some industry watchers to question its eligibility for “Best Independent Game” at The Game Awards.
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