Clair Obscur Expedition 33 is set to launch into a competitive release window, and its publisher Kepler Interactive has decided to have a little fun with it. Just days ahead of its official debut, the team posted a cheeky social media meme comparing its RPG’s release to The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, which dropped unexpectedly on April 22. The post likened the situation to the viral “Barbenheimer” phenomenon, where the films Barbie and Oppenheimer shared a theatrical release date in July 2023—two wildly different experiences that, together, created a massive cultural moment.
Kepler Interactive’s meme featured artwork from Clair Obscur Expedition 33, cleverly altered to show an Oblivion Gate replacing the game’s iconic Paintress centerpiece. The characters in the image are seen staring into its fiery maw—symbolizing both the RPG showdown and the good-natured sense of humor the devs are bringing to the situation.
Kepler Interactive’s Meme Highlights a Wholesome Clair Obscur Expedition 33 vs. Oblivion Rivalry
On April 22, Bethesda and Microsoft shadow-dropped Oblivion Remastered, a modern re-release of the beloved 2006 RPG. Built using Unreal Engine 5 in collaboration with Virtuos, the remaster brings updated visuals and modernized mechanics while retaining its rich storytelling and open-world design. It’s available in both Standard and Digital Deluxe Editions, with the deluxe version adding bonus armor, a digital art book, and the full soundtrack.
Meanwhile, Clair Obscur Expedition 33, developed by Sandfall Interactive and also powered by Unreal Engine 5, offers a very different kind of RPG experience. The game combines painterly visuals with turn-based combat and a unique narrative flair that sets it apart from traditional fantasy titles. Despite the obvious differences, both games appeal to RPG fans and are launching within days of each other—Oblivion Remastered on April 22 and Expedition 33 on April 24.
As reported by IGN, Kepler Interactive leaned into the “Barbenheimer” comparison to highlight the unlikely overlap in release timing. Rather than treat it as a problem, they embraced the coincidence with a humorous post, quickly earning fan praise for their lighthearted approach. The “Barbenheimer” term itself refers to the meme-fueled hype around Barbie and Oppenheimer, two completely contrasting films that ended up thriving thanks to their shared launch date—and fans are now hoping that Clair Obscur Expedition 33 and Oblivion Remastered will benefit from a similar crossover buzz.
While the concern among fans is real—especially considering Oblivion’s lengthy playtime, which can stretch beyond 80 hours with side quests—the team behind Expedition 33 remains optimistic. Their game, offering 30 to 60 hours of gameplay, gives players a more contained, narrative-driven RPG alternative that may appeal to those seeking a fresh story and innovative design.
Both games will be available via Xbox Game Pass, making them easily accessible for players curious about exploring both titles without extra costs. Whether gamers opt for the nostalgic grandeur of Oblivion Remastered or the artistic charm of Clair Obscur Expedition 33, it’s shaping up to be a strong week for RPG fans.
You can check out the full story on IGN here and view Bethesda’s announcement of Oblivion Remastered on the official Xbox Newswire.
As the release date for Clair Obscur Expedition 33 approaches, fans are gearing up for an unforgettable launch—and maybe even a new pop culture meme moment of their own.
