Game Mechanics and Community Engagement

Alongside discussions about its story, players have been experimenting with optimal character builds, particularly focusing on strategies to defeat bosses with impressive damage outputs. Notably, the character Maelle has generated buzz for her unparalleled damage numbers. A recent update promises to shift the dynamics for this character.

Read on for the details in the patch notes of update 1.2.3, which marks the first substantial update since the game’s initial release.

Patch Notes for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – Update 1.2.3 (Released May 9)

In this update, the damage of Stendhal, Maelle’s powerful skill, has been reduced by 40%. Sandfall, the game developer, aims to retain the ability for players to “break the game” through varied builds, yet recognized that this particular skill was excessively potent and disrupted game balance.

Developer Insights on Game Balance

“Initially, we did not intend to implement balance changes this early; our focus was on bug fixes,” Sandfall explained. “However, Stendhal stood out with its overwhelming power, having been underwhelming for most of development. A last-minute boost resulted in it overshadowing virtually all other options.”

With optimal builds, Maelle had the capability to inflict over two billion damage points with Stendhal, effectively eliminating any enemies in one hit—an imbalance unacceptable in either a single-player or multiplayer context.

Further Patch Notes

Here is an overview of the rest of the patch notes, now live in the game:

Weapon and Skill Adjustments

• Lithelim’s attribute scaling issue at high levels has been fixed, with initial Vitality scaling decreased from A to C (ending at S at max level) and Luck scaling added starting at D.
• Blizzon’s initial Luck scaling has been reduced from B to C (still reaching S at max level) while Defense scaling starts at D.
• Medalum’s third Lumina now correctly doubles only Burn damage in Virtuose Stance.
• Stendhal damage has been decreased by 40%.

Ultrawide Screen Fixes

• Gameplay zoom after cutscenes in ultrawide resolutions has been resolved.
• Options menu images no longer stretch in ultrawide resolutions.
• Combat UI adjustments now adapt correctly.
• Game minimizes no longer upon changing settings in ultrawide resolutions.
• Cutscenes display correctly in 32:9 aspect ratio.
• Title screen shows fullscreen when launched in ultrawide resolution.

Mouse and Keyboard Improvements

• UI button prompts in the Expedition Menu are now fully functional with Keyboard controls.
• Mouse buttons will remain responsive after initial use.
• Mouse cursor now displays correctly when navigating the UI using ‘WASD’ or directional arrows.
• Left-click actions do not hinder Keyboard navigation through menus anymore.
• Mouse input remains functional after the first Jump counter attack.

World Map Area Fixes

• Players can no longer get stuck in various map locations including Stone Wave Cliff and Forgotten Battlefield.
• Removed issues of players being trapped between environment elements, enhancing gameplay flow.

Specific Character Fixes

• Esquie no longer falls through bridges or becomes immobilized near specific structures.
• Several scenarios were corrected to prevent character entrapment, ensuring smoother gameplay.

Miscellaneous Fixes

• The Stone Wave Cliffs boss encounter can now be completed in NG+ mode.
• Fixed interface issue with the Journal UI blocking player interactions.
• Resolved an issue preventing shooting in Free aim while exploring.
• Eliminated duplicate spawn issues during specific quests involving Lune and Monoco.
• Various other minor fixes have been implemented to enhance user experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

What are the major changes in the patch 1.2.3 update?

The major changes include a 40% nerf to Maelle’s Stendhal skill and adjustments to various weapon and skill attributes to ensure game balance.

How has the gaming community reacted to Expedition 33?

Players have actively engaged in discussions online, sharing their thoughts on character builds and achievements while seeking strategies to enhance their gaming experience.

What other technical improvements were included in patch 1.2.3?

The update included fixes for ultrawide screen issues, keyboard and mouse functionality enhancements, and resolving various stuck areas in the game world.

Will the updates affect my previous game saves?

No, the updates are designed to improve gameplay without affecting your current game saves or progress.