In a remarkable achievement, Sandfall Interactive successfully launched its acclaimed RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, with a team primarily composed of junior and first-time developers. According to its creative director, Guillaume Broche, the studio effectively doubled the effort typically expected from a more seasoned group to bring the game to market.
Broche explained in an interview with Edge Magazine that the recruitment of younger developers stemmed from the vibrant demographic of Montpellier, a city known for its youthful population. He noted that “senior people tend to go for safer options,” particularly as Sandfall lacked a significant portfolio at the time. This scenario set the stage for a unique working environment where many team members were unencumbered by preconceived notions about game development.
Innovative Ideas from a Fresh Perspective
Lead designer Michel Nora highlighted the advantages of hiring a younger workforce. He stated that these employees offered fresh ideas critical to the project’s success, adding, “They didn’t have any expectations about how a studio should be run and how a game should be made.” While the decision to hire less experienced staff was driven by necessity, it ultimately proved beneficial.
Producer Francois Meurisse echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the absence of seasoned professionals meant that the team was free from “bad habits from other gaming companies.” Instead, they created a collaborative atmosphere where everyone learned together. He remarked, “[We were] trying to create something new… from scratch,” noting that they effectively executed best practices while navigating uncharted territory.
The team faced significant challenges as they tackled tasks for the first time at scale. Meurisse estimated that they “basically did twice the work,” underscoring the extensive research and execution required to meet their objectives. He also pointed to the collaborative nature of the gaming industry in France, stating, “We benefitted a lot from sharing experiences,” which enriched their development process.
The Impact of Innovation on Game Design
In addition to discussing the team dynamics, Broche acknowledged the influence of other games on their design choices. He specifically mentioned the impact of Final Fantasy X, noting its approach to gameplay mechanics and the potential for players to overpower final bosses. While he recognized this aspect as a contribution to the game’s design, he also admitted, “it might have been a little bit too easy to get overpowered.”
As Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 continues to garner attention for its innovative gameplay and engaging storyline, Sandfall Interactive’s decision to embrace a youthful and inexperienced team has proven to be a pivotal factor in its success. The studio’s experience reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry, where collaboration and fresh perspectives can lead to groundbreaking outcomes.
