In a remarkable sweep at the Game Awards 2023, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 emerged as the standout winner, clinching nine awards, including the coveted Game of the Year. The French-developed role-playing game (RPG), crafted by Sandfall Interactive, captivated audiences with its compelling narrative and nostalgic turn-based combat. The game tells the story of adventurers on a mission to defeat a supernatural entity known as The Paintress, who restricts the population's growth. Director Guillaume Broche, donning a red beret and striped t-shirt, expressed gratitude to his team and the "unsung heroes" of the gaming industry during his acceptance speech.

Clair Obscur's success extended to categories such as Best Narrative, Best Music, and Best Performance, with actress Jennifer English winning for her portrayal of Maelle. The game's composer, Lorien Testard, also received accolades for Best Score and Music, marking a significant achievement for the debut musician. Despite fierce competition from titles like Death Stranding 2 and Donkey Kong Bananza, Clair Obscur's unique storytelling and gameplay resonated with both critics and fans.

New Tomb Raider Games on the Horizon

The Game Awards also served as a platform for announcing two new Tomb Raider games, marking the return of the iconic Lara Croft. Tomb Raider Catalyst, set for release in 2027, will feature the "charismatic, self-assured, formidable" Lara Croft as she races against treasure hunters in northern India. Developed by Crystal Dynamics, the game promises to capture the essence of the original 1990s series while introducing modern gameplay elements.

Meanwhile, Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, slated for a 2026 release, is being developed in collaboration with Flying Wild Hog. This game reimagines Lara Croft's first adventure from 1996, incorporating modernized combat and redesigned puzzles. Both games will be published by Amazon, with British actor Alix Wilton Regan voicing Lara Croft, continuing the character's evolution over the decades.