The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has been drawn back into the generative-AI debate as scrutiny of Larian Studios’ AI workflow revived discussion of Sandfall Interactive’s earlier experimentation. Reporting describes temporary, AI-generated placeholder textures during development—not AI assets that remained in the released game. The Indie Game Awards nevertheless rescinded two awards, saying Sandfall’s development use conflicted with the organization’s no-generative-AI rule.
Why is Clair Obscur back in the AI conversation?
Renewed backlash over Larian Studios’ use of AI brought attention back to Sandfall Interactive, developer of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The two studios are separate cases; Larian’s workflow did not cause Sandfall’s earlier experimentation. The renewed discussion reflects a broader disagreement over what counts as AI use in game development and whether temporary production materials should affect a game’s eligibility for awards. PC Gamer reported on the renewed dispute and awards decision.
To what extent was generative AI used in Clair Obscur?
Reporting describes Sandfall using generative AI experimentally during development to make placeholder textures. Those temporary textures were removed, and the released game was reported to contain no generative-AI elements. That is a distinction between using a tool in a production process and shipping its output as part of the game.
Sandfall producer François Meurisse described the studio’s use as: “We use some AI, but not much.” The brief comment, reported by PC Gamer, is not a detailed technical account of the tools, assets, or workflow involved. The available reporting does not establish a precise count or volume of generated material.
#1 Best Overall
Why did the Indie Game Awards rescind two awards?
The Indie Game Awards rescinded two awards after saying Sandfall had confirmed generative-AI use during development. The organization cited its no-AI eligibility rule and the studio’s representation in its submission. That decision concerns the awards body’s stated rules: it does not establish that every award organization treats every AI tool or workflow the same way.
The distinction matters here. Sandfall’s reported placeholder textures were removed before release, but the awards body’s reported rule treated generative-AI use during development as disqualifying. Under that standard, whether AI-generated content remained in the finished game was not the only relevant question.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How does this compare with Larian’s AI use?
Larian’s separate AI workflow prompted the renewed attention, but the available reporting does not support a detailed, like-for-like technical comparison of the studios’ tools or processes. GameSpot’s account of Larian’s clarified stance addresses that studio’s case; it should not be treated as evidence that its workflow was identical to Sandfall’s.
The useful comparison is narrower: Sandfall’s reported experimentation involved placeholder textures that were later removed, while the Indie Game Awards applied its own eligibility rule to AI use during development. The available reporting does not establish an equivalent award decision or identical disclosure rule for Larian.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- COLLECTOR'S EDITION SET: Premium Monolith Set for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 featuring an exclusive collectible statue, expedition journal, and decorative outer box for fans and collectors
- DETAILED MONOLITH STATUE: Intricately designed collectible statue featuring the iconic Expedition 33 monolith with weathered stone textures, gold accents, and atmospheric detailing that captures the game's dark fantasy aesthetic
- EXPEDITION JOURNAL: Exclusive hardcover journal with themed artwork and design elements from the game, perfect for notes, sketches, or as a display piece alongside the statue
- PREMIUM PACKAGING: Comes in a striking collector's box featuring dramatic character artwork with rose petal effects and distressed design elements that reflect the game's mysterious atmosphere
- PERFECT FOR DISPLAY: The monolith statue serves as an impressive centerpiece for any gaming collection or display shelf, celebrating the unique world of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Rank #3
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
