ElderScrolls 33: Clair Oblivion hits "Barbenheimer" moment

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 developer discusses the game's coincidental launch alongside Elder Scrolls Oblivion, drawing humorous parallels to the Barbenheimer phenomenon. Continue reading for their reaction to Oblivion's surprise announcement and global release timing details.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Launches Alongside Oblivion Remaster

Kepler Interactive Draws Barbenheimer Comparison

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 had been building momentum toward its planned release when Bethesda unexpectedly announced The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered. Publisher Kepler Interactive addressed the timing on their official Twitter (X) account on April 22, humorously likening the situation to last year's Barbenheimer cultural moment.

For context, "Barbenheimer" became a viral sensation when Warner Bros.' vibrant Barbie and Universal's intense Oppenheimer premiered on the same July 2023 date. Movie enthusiasts created memes about attending screenings of both films consecutively, often dressing in pink for Barbie before switching to neutral tones for Oppenheimer. Kepler uses this analogy to describe their game's launch coinciding with Oblivion's remaster.

With Oblivion Remastered's surprise announcement, many wondered whether Expedition 33 would adjust its release schedule. While some developers postpone launches to avoid competing titles, Expedition 33 remains committed to its original April release date.

Global Simultaneous Release Across All Platforms

Ahead of launch, Expedition 33 revealed its worldwide unlock schedule. The game will debut simultaneously across all platforms on April 24 at 3 a.m. ET / 12 a.m. PT.

Below is the regional timetable showing when Expedition 33 becomes playable in different time zones:

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 arrives April 24, 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For the latest updates on this intriguing RPG, check out our coverage below!