Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is generating buzz in the gaming world. A recent interview highlights how its scope sets it apart from many major titles today.

In a discussion with GamesIndustry.biz, leaders from Kepler Interactive, the publisher of Clair Obscur developer Sandfall Interactive, shared insights on the game’s success and its industry role. Matthew Handrahan, Kepler’s portfolio director, emphasized the game’s concise length as a key distinction from typical AAA blockbusters.

“Shorter games can deliver greater impact,” Handrahan noted. “Like films, where many feel overly long at two-and-a-half hours, players want experiences that respect their time and competing priorities.”

François Meurisse, Sandfall’s COO and producer, told GI.biz the team aimed for Clair Obscur to be a “focused and intense” journey from the start.

“Initial estimates pegged the main quest at around 20 hours,” Meurisse said. “We landed closer to 30, or up to 40 if you explore more. As a gamer, I value the excitement and joy a game delivers over its duration.”

Data from HowLongToBeat estimates a main story playthrough at roughly 27 hours, with 41 hours for main and side content, and about 61.5 hours for a completionist run. While longer than some indie titles, it’s notably shorter than many sprawling AAA games or lengthy RPGs.

Handrahan emphasized that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 “values players’ time.” He highlighted the absence of “unnecessary padding or bloated content added just to extend playtime.” Meurisse questioned whether a game’s length directly correlates with its worth.

“A game’s value isn’t tied to its duration,” Meurisse said. “Take Inside, one of my favorite games—it’s about two hours but delivers a polished, intense, and for some, transformative experience.”

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Review - Screenshots

IGN’s 9/10 review of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 praised its efficiency: “I completed the main story and substantial side content in about 35 hours. The game avoids filler, staying streamlined without lengthy exposition.”

Clair Obscur stands out from typical blockbusters, signaling shifts in the gaming industry. For more details, read the full interview on GI.biz. The game appears to set a compelling standard for impactful titles without unnecessary excess.