Beyond Expedition 33: Sandfall Interactive Promises 'Wild' Creative Freedom for Future Projects
Following the global success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Sandfall Interactive discusses their commitment to creative freedom and future development plans.
A Fresh Vision for the Future
Following the monumental success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which captured the hearts of players worldwide and earned over 330 Game of the Year awards, Sandfall Interactive is looking ahead. With 8 million copies sold by April 2026, the Montpellier-based studio has solidified its position as a powerhouse of independent game development. However, rather than rushing to capitalize on this fame, director Guillaume Broche has confirmed that the team plans to prioritize creative experimentation over commercial pressure.
Refusing to Follow the Crowd
In a recent interview with Automaton, Broche emphasized that the studio intends to maintain its unique identity. Having spent over six years crafting the immersive world of Expedition 33, the team is committed to a development philosophy that values patience and passion. "We want to find that spark again," says Broche. He explicitly stated that they refuse to simply replicate the industry standard of rapid-fire sequels, preferring to let their next project gestate until it feels truly inspired. By keeping the team size relatively small—around 26 dedicated members—they aim to avoid the bloat that often plagues larger studios, ensuring their next title remains as focused and purposeful as their debut.
The Possibility of an Action-RPG Shift
While the studio has not yet disclosed specific details about its next endeavor, speculation is mounting. Known for their love of genre-defining titles like Final Fantasy X and Persona 5, the team is clearly inspired by the pillars of the JRPG world. However, fans are curious if the studio will pivot to new gameplay mechanics. Guillaume Broche has previously expressed a deep admiration for the combat systems in Kingdom Hearts 2, calling it one of the greatest action-RPGs ever made. Whether their next "folly" involves a transition toward more fluid action mechanics or a reinvention of the turn-based formula, one thing is certain: Sandfall Interactive is determined to stay true to its artistic vision, even if it means delivering something that challenges convention.
