Former PlayStation Boss Warned Against RPG Label for Acclaimed Game
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a critically acclaimed and award-winning title, defied early marketing advice. Former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida cautioned developers against labeling it a turn-based RPG. Despite the warning, the game has generated significant hype and is drawing in new players to the genre.
Coverage across 3 outlets
'It's Incredibly Well-Made, But…' — Former PlayStation Boss Warned Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Devs It Would Be 'Overlooked' if They Called It a Turn-Based RPG
Former PlayStation lead Shuhei Yoshida advised the developers of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 against marketing it as a "turn-based RPG." He warned that this classification might cause the game to be overlooked by players.
Ex PlayStation boss told Clair Obscur Expedition 33 devs not to call it a turn-based RPG: "That alone might cause…
Former Sony Interactive president Shuhei Yoshida advised Kepler Interactive to avoid marketing Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as a turn-based RPG due to perceived market unpopularity. Despite this guidance, the game, developed by Sandfall Interactive, was released to critical acclaim and numerous awards, ultimately helping to revitalize interest in the genre. Yoshida shared this anecdote at the Busan Indie Connect Festival 2026.
Games Inbox: Is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 worth the hype?
Readers discuss whether Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which won multiple awards including Best Game at the BAFTAs, lives up to the hype, with some considering purchasing it despite not typically enjoying RPGs. Other topics include the merits of the PlayStation 4 generation, the future of VR, and the perceived bias in the BAFTA video game awards.
