In a year marked by rapid advancements in gaming technology and a plethora of new releases, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has emerged as the most completed game of 2025. This achievement adds another feather to the cap of Sandfall Interactive’s acclaimed RPG, which has already swept numerous award ceremonies and earned the distinction of being the most-awarded game in The Game Awards (TGA) history. The game’s popularity has also resonated with Japanese developers, who have offered special praise for its innovative design and engaging narrative.
The announcement comes as a significant milestone in an era where gamers are often distracted by a multitude of options and shorter attention spans. The ability of Expedition 33 to captivate players and maintain their interest through its extensive 28-hour main storyline underscores its brilliance and appeal.
Record-Breaking Completion Rates
According to the year-end list by game completion tracker HowLongToBeat, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has been ranked as the most completed title released this year. While the tracker did not provide specific figures on how many players finished the game or the percentage of dropouts, data from the PlayStation Network (PSN) reveals that over 34% of players who started the game on PlayStation 5 completed the main story and earned the related trophy.
“Over 34% of players who started Expedition 33 on PlayStation 5 completed the main story.”
This level of engagement is particularly noteworthy when compared to other popular titles. Hollow Knight: Silksong secured the second spot on the HowLongToBeat ranking, while Donkey Kong Bananza rounded out the top three. Other notable mentions include indie favorite Dispatch at the fifth position, and RPGs like Monster Hunter Wilds and Hades 2 also making the list. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive Mario Kart World claimed the seventh spot, and Silent Hill F by Neobards Entertainment was the eighth most-completed title, highlighting the enduring appeal of Konami’s franchise.
The Appeal of Expedition 33
The success of Expedition 33 can be attributed to several factors, including its compelling storyline, immersive gameplay, and the seamless integration of AI technology, which has sparked both interest and controversy. The game’s ability to draw players into its world and keep them engaged for extended periods is a testament to the developers’ skill in crafting a rich and rewarding experience.
Industry experts have noted that the game’s high completion rate is indicative of a broader trend towards more immersive and narrative-driven experiences in gaming. As players seek deeper connections with the stories and characters they encounter, games like Expedition 33 are setting new standards for engagement and player satisfaction.
Implications for the Gaming Industry
The success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as the most completed game of 2025 is likely to influence future game development, encouraging studios to focus on creating more engaging and story-rich experiences. As the industry continues to evolve, the emphasis on narrative depth and player engagement is expected to become increasingly important.
Looking ahead, the impact of Expedition 33 may inspire other developers to explore new storytelling techniques and innovative gameplay mechanics, further enriching the gaming landscape. This development follows a growing trend of players seeking meaningful and immersive experiences, which could shape the direction of future game releases.
As we move into 2026, the legacy of Expedition 33 will likely continue to resonate, serving as a benchmark for excellence in game design and player engagement. The game’s success not only highlights the potential of narrative-driven RPGs but also sets a high bar for upcoming titles in the ever-evolving world of gaming.
