Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Pricing Key to Reception, Says Kepler CEO

Kepler Interactive CEO Alexis Garavaryan stated that the pricing of the game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 was a significant factor in its reception. The role-playing game (RPG) was priced at $50, lower than many modern AAA titles, a deliberate decision to offer players good value for money.

Exceeding AAA Expectations with Novelty

Garavaryan indicated that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 meets expectations for an AAA RPG, encompassing polished gameplay, visual fidelity, voice acting quality, and soundtrack. He also highlighted the title's narrative, which combines old-school turn-based combat with contemporary fantasy RPG elements, as contributing to a novel experience.

Shifting Player Priorities

Regarding player priorities, Garavaryan noted a shift away from visual fidelity and content length. He suggested that players increasingly value an exceptional, interesting, and novel experience over high graphics or extensive hours of gameplay.

A Deliberate Approach to Value

The publisher and studio discussed pricing the game below its contemporaries to ensure potential buyers would perceive it as respectful of their money and time. Garavaryan explained that while larger companies frequently increase prices, Kepler Interactive aims to price their games lower to provide players with a sense of receiving a bargain and a great deal.

Differentiation in a Crowded Market

Garavaryan also commented that the pricing helped differentiate Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 in the current gaming industry, where prices for games, subscription services, and consoles have generally increased. Despite these rising costs, players have access to numerous high-quality games regularly.

To gain player attention and money, a game must offer something truly great and special.