Game Awards buzz is 'cherry on top' for 'Clair Obscur' maker

By Admin

12 Dec, 2025

The global gaming community is buzzing as indie sensation Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 heads into next week’s Game Awards as the favourite for Game of the Year. For Guillaume Broche, the 33-year-old co-founder of Sandfall Interactive, this recognition marks the “cherry on top” of what has already been a monumental year.

Developed in Montpellier, France, the role-playing title has rapidly become a cultural phenomenon, earning 12 nominations an all-time industry record and capturing the hearts of millions. AFP caught up with Broche just days before the Los Angeles ceremony, where emotions, reflection, and anticipation are running high.

A Record-Breaking Moment

When Broche first learned about the unprecedented number of nominations, he described the moment as gratifying but not overwhelming. For him and his team, the real reward has been the flood of heartfelt messages from players across the world. “The Game Awards are kind of the cherry on top,” he shared, emphasizing that community support outweighs trophies.

A Rollercoaster Since Launch

Released at the end of April, Clair Obscur has sold over five million copies, sending its creators into an emotional whirlwind. Coming off five years of intense development in isolation, the team suddenly found themselves in the global spotlight. Broche admitted that while the success was euphoric, it also brought a surprising emotional crash. “It’s an overload of emotions… too much for one person alone,” he said.

Hundreds of daily messages from players describing how the game impacted their lives added both pressure and pride. What started as a passion project quickly transformed into something much larger than anyone had expected.

What Made Clair Obscur Stand Out?

According to Broche, the game’s success lies in its authenticity. Players connected deeply with its unique blend of storytelling, artistic direction, and innovative gameplay. “People felt like they were playing a game that spoke directly to them not a product made to please them,” he explained.

He also acknowledges the role of luck and survivorship bias. Many small teams pour years into projects without achieving such heights, making their own success both humbling and surreal.

Praise from Competitors

Notably, Ari Gibson, co-creator of Hollow Knight: Silksong one of the strongest contenders at the awards called Clair Obscur “exceptional and broadly palatable.” Broche expressed admiration for the Silksong team and welcomed the compliment warmly, noting the mutual respect between studios.

Addressing Critics

Some online critics have questioned the game’s classification as an independent title, given its release through publisher Kepler Interactive. Broche clarified that despite the partnership, the creative process remained fully independent. Affordable and advanced tools like Unreal Engine 5 have empowered small teams to produce AAA-level experiences without sacrificing creative freedom.

What’s Next for Clair Obscur?

Fans eager for more content will have to be patient. New material is in the works but will be released only “when we’re ready,” Broche confirmed. As for a sequel, early development has begun though the studio intends to keep the team small and the creation process personal. “Our game worked because it was sincere and authentic,” he said. “There’s no reason for us to change.”