Sandfall Interactive's Next Game: Trusting Their Instincts Over Fan Pressure

Following the success of *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*, which won the Game of the Year award at The Game Awards, Sandfall Interactive is preparing for its next title. The studio's leadership has emphasized a commitment to prioritizing their own creative instincts over external fan expectations.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 developer feels it needs to "trust its instincts" for its next game, instead of being guided by fan pressure

In an interview with *Edge* magazine, François Meurisse, Sandfall's chief operating officer and production director, acknowledged the pressure that comes with their recent acclaim but stated, "it's not so important to us." He expressed confidence in the team's growth, noting that they have gained five years of experience since the inception of *Clair Obscur*. Meurisse highlighted their excitement for new ideas, asserting, "We have some great ideas we're so excited to explore."

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 developer feels it needs to "trust its instincts" for its next game, instead of being guided by fan pressure

Lead writer Jennifer Svedberg-Yen echoed this sentiment, admitting that while she is aware of fan expectations, the creative direction will remain guided by the team's personal tastes. She remarked, "Creatively, we've always let our North Star be our own personal taste in terms of what we think is cool." Svedberg-Yen cautioned against the pitfalls of trying to please a broad audience, stating, "I've seen too many TV shows and books be swayed trying to please a lot of people, and in the process you end up losing the heart of what's there."

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 devs' next game will simply focus on "what we think is cool" – "I've seen too many TV shows and books be swayed trying to please a lot of people"

The success of *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33* has not only garnered critical acclaim but also significant public recognition. French President Emmanuel Macron publicly acknowledged the game's achievements, calling its Game of the Year win a source of "great pride for Montpellier and for France." The game has sold millions of copies and has been celebrated at various awards shows, solidifying Sandfall's reputation in the gaming industry.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 developer feels it needs to "trust its instincts" for its next game, instead of being guided by fan pressure

Despite the studio's confidence, there are concerns about the challenges of meeting high expectations set by their debut title. Some critics argue that the pressure to replicate past success could hinder creativity. However, Meurisse and Svedberg-Yen remain focused on their vision, emphasizing the importance of staying true to their artistic instincts.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 developer feels it needs to "trust its instincts" for its next game, instead of being guided by fan pressure

As Sandfall Interactive moves forward, the team is committed to exploring new ideas while maintaining the essence that made *Clair Obscur* successful. Their approach reflects a desire to innovate rather than conform to external pressures, aiming to create a game that resonates with both the developers and their audience.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 developer feels it needs to "trust its instincts" for its next game, instead of being guided by fan pressure

• “We'll have time to get really focused into the next game. We have some great ideas we're so excited to explore, and we don't start from the same point. The team already has five more years of experience. So maybe we can do some great stuff.” — François Meurisse, COO and Production Director, Sandfall Interactive

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 devs' next game will simply focus on "what we think is cool" – "I've seen too many TV shows and books be swayed trying to please a lot of people"

• “ Even though she'd "be lying if I said that I didn't think about that at all," however, she adds: "Creatively, we've always let our North Star be our own personal taste in terms of what we think is cool, what it is we enjoy and want to see.” — Jennifer Svedberg-Yen, Lead Writer, Sandfall Interactive

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 devs' next game will simply focus on "what we think is cool" – "I've seen too many TV shows and books be swayed trying to please a lot of people"

• “I've seen too many TV shows and books be swayed trying to please a lot of people, and in the process you end up losing the heart of what's there.” — Jennifer Svedberg-Yen, Lead Writer, Sandfall Interactive

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 devs' next game will simply focus on "what we think is cool" – "I've seen too many TV shows and books be swayed trying to please a lot of people"

In summary, Sandfall Interactive's commitment to trusting their instincts while navigating the pressures of fan expectations will be crucial as they develop their next game.

Sandfall Interactive Will Follow Their “North Star” When Making Next Title