Clair Obscur’s journal entries offer a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of its predecessors, who paved the way for the game’s protagonists, Expedition 33. The sense of impending failure that drives the mission is palpable, as if their hard work will be forgotten by future generations.
Expedition 33’s success relies heavily on the progress made by those who came before them. Journals left behind by previous expeditions provide vital information, from strategies for tackling challenging enemies to warnings about deadly hazards. These entries serve as a reminder that individual skill alone is insufficient – knowledge and cooperation between generations are key.
One entry, Expedition 60’s journal, stands out for its brutal honesty: “Bare naked muscles will save the world!” The author’s words are both a testament to their own strength and a warning against relying solely on brute force. This journal, like many others, drives home the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge.
Clair Obscur also challenges traditional notions of heroism and individual success. By depicting its protagonists as part of a larger chain of successes and failures, the game offers a more nuanced view of history and the role of individuals in shaping it. This approach is reminiscent of Bertolt Brecht’s “Questions From a Worker Who Reads,” which asks, “Caesar defeated the Gauls. / Did he not even have a cook with him?”
Ultimately, Clair Obscur’s message is one of collective achievement, rather than individual heroism. By recognizing the value of cooperation and shared knowledge, the game invites players to reconsider their own place within the narrative of history – and their role in shaping the world around them.
Source: https://aftermath.site/clair-obscur-journals