If you love story-based games with puzzles, emotions, and a deep artistic vibe, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a game you shouldn’t miss. In this article, we’ll walk you through Chapter 1 of the game, titled “Painting Through Pain”. This game is full of beautiful visuals and emotional storytelling. Don’t worry if you’re new to the game—we’ll explain everything in simple English so that even a 15-year-old can easily follow along. Let’s get started on this exciting adventure!
What Is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33?

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a fantasy adventure game where the world is shaped by art, magic, and memory. The game is set in a dark, beautiful world where the player controls a group of heroes trying to fight back against a powerful force called the “Paintress”. Every year, the Paintress paints the names of people who then disappear forever. Your team, the 33rd Expedition, is on a mission to stop her.
Chapter 1 Overview – Painting Through Pain
Chapter 1 starts with a deep and emotional opening. The world is strange and mysterious, full of fog, broken buildings, and magical colors. You play as a character who has just woken up and is trying to remember their past. You soon meet your team members and begin to understand your mission—to stop the cycle of pain.
Puzzle Solving and Exploration
This part of the game teaches you how to explore the world and solve simple puzzles. You will:
- Walk through the dream-like city streets
- Interact with strange objects and memories
- Open blocked paths by solving puzzles related to art and emotions
The puzzles are not too hard, but they are creative. You might need to look at a painting to find a clue or listen to a sound to open a secret door.
First Combat Experience

Chapter 1 also introduces you to combat. The fights are turn-based, which means you take turns attacking enemies. What’s cool is that the combat includes painting-like actions. You can:
- Attack with paint-based weapons
- Block or dodge using timing
- Use special moves inspired by emotions
You’ll fight your first mini-boss here, a creature that looks like it was made from broken dreams and paint. Defeating it helps you and your team grow stronger.
Emotional Storytelling
One thing that makes Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 special is how it connects emotion with gameplay. In Chapter 1, your character starts to remember sad memories from their past. These memories affect the way they fight and interact with others. It makes the story deep, touching, and powerful.
Ending Chapter 1

At the end of Chapter 1, your team moves toward the next part of the journey. You have learned the basics of the game, met some interesting characters, and felt the weight of the mission. The ending sets up Chapter 2, where things will get even more challenging and exciting.
Chapter 1 of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, titled “Painting Through Pain,” sets a strong emotional and visual tone for the rest of the game. You get to learn the basics of the world, solve clever puzzles, experience deep storytelling, and enjoy unique combat. This game is a great mix of art and adventure, and the first chapter is only the beginning of a beautiful and heartbreaking journey.
What is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 about?
It’s a fantasy game where you fight to stop the magical Paintress who erases lives with her art.
How long is Chapter 1 of the game?
Chapter 1 takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how quickly you solve the puzzles.
Is there combat in Chapter 1?
Yes, you’ll experience your first turn-based battle and learn combat mechanics.
Can I play Chapter 1 without understanding the story?
Yes, but the story is emotional and important, so it’s good to pay attention to it.
Do I need to be good at puzzles to enjoy this game?
No, the puzzles are simple and meant to help tell the story, not just to challenge you.