When it comes to the world of gaming, 2025 is shaping up to be one for the history books. Two heavy hitters, “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33” and “Oblivion Remastered”, have captivated audiences worldwide. And while some may wonder if these two celebrated titles would compete or overshadow one another, Ben Starr, the voice of Verso in Clair Obscur, believes there’s more than enough room for both games to flourish.
The Year of Gaming Diversity
Reflecting on the current gaming landscape, Ben Starr highlighted the richness and diversity 2025 brings to the table. “Whether you’re obsessed with Blue Prince, Oblivion, or Clair Obscur, there’s something for everyone this year,” Starr remarked in an interview with GameSpot. With hits spanning remakes, sequels, and daring new IPs, it’s an exciting era for players of all preferences.
Remakes vs. New IPs
At its heart, this discussion sheds light on an ongoing debate in the gaming community regarding remakes of classics versus new intellectual properties (IPs). On one end, Oblivion Remastered revives a hallmark of open-world RPG for a new audience. On the other, Clair Obscur introduces a fresh, imaginative take to the genre, earning an impressive 92 Metacritic score, tying for the top-rated new game of the year.
Starr fully embraces this coexistence. According to him, Clair Obscur “doesn’t come along very often,” representing a leap forward for new gaming experiences. Yet at the same time, Oblivion Remastered invites a resurgence of nostalgia, offering younger players a chance to experience the magic for the first time.
Why the Games Can Coexist
What makes these two titles stand apart is their unique positioning within the industry. They both cater to distinctive gaming needs:
- Clair Obscur offers a compelling new narrative filled with rich lore, innovative mechanics, and a heartwarming yet thrilling RPG experience.
- Oblivion Remastered brings familiarity and refinement, rekindling fond memories with its updated visuals and improved gameplay.
Starr emphasizes that players don’t need to choose one over the other. He adds, “This game isn’t going anywhere. It’s on Game Pass; download it, put it on your console, and experience it when you get there. What a great year for video games!”
Industry Implications
Starr’s perspective also highlights an important point about the gaming industry at large. The coexistence of remakes and new IPs isn’t competitive; it’s complementary. Revitalized classics draw in fans of old-school titles, while groundbreaking new IPs push the industry forward by introducing fresh ideas. Together, they build a more inclusive gaming ecosystem.
Clair Obscur’s Rise to Fame
The success of Clair Obscur is no fluke. Developed by Sandfall Interactive, a studio with just 30 developers, the game has quickly become a fan favorite. Critics praise its heartfelt story and imaginative take on traditional RPG mechanics. Reviews describe it as “phenomenal” and “immersive,” with Starr’s performance as Verso adding a layer of depth and intrigue.
Adding to its accessibility, Clair Obscur was included on Game Pass from day one, ensuring more players had the opportunity to experience this enchanting new adventure. For gamers craving a new world to explore, Clair Obscur feels like a revelation.
Oblivion Remastered’s Contribution
Meanwhile, the nostalgia-driven Oblivion Remastered taps into a rich well of emotion for players who adored the original release. Carefully reconstructed from the ground up, this beloved classic now boasts breathtaking visuals and modern controls to compete with any contemporary RPG. The work Bethesda has done highlights how remakes can serve as both an homage to the past and a portal for new players.
A Celebration of Gaming’s Future
Starr sums it up perfectly. “We are lucky to live in a world where we’re reinventing and reimagining games while also crafting incredible new stories. It’s the best of both worlds.” His enthusiasm is infectious, pointing to the fact that 2025 serves as a celebration of progress, nostalgia, and creativity in the gaming world.
What It All Means for Gamers
For RPG fans, 2025 will undoubtedly be remembered as a golden year for gaming. With Clair Obscur and Oblivion Remastered leading the charge, the industry proves that innovation and reverence for the past can harmoniously coexist. Whether you’re a player seeking to bask in nostalgia or ready to explore bold, imaginative narratives, there’s something to be excited about.
Want to explore these incredible titles yourself? Here’s your gamer to-do list:
- Try Clair Obscur on Game Pass for a groundbreaking new RPG experience.
- Dive into Oblivion Remastered to rediscover one of gaming’s most iconic worlds.
The Future is Bright
Gaming is better when there’s room for everyone. Whether it’s remasters or revolutionary IPs, there’s plenty of space for gamers to indulge their passions. Starr’s closing sentiment captures the sentiment best, “Whatever your taste, 2025 is your year to fall in love with gaming all over again.”
