In a game filled with loss, darkness, and surreal storytelling, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 surprises players not just with its stunning world, but with a character who embodies pure, unfiltered warmth — Esquie.
At its core, Clair Obscur is a serious and heavy experience. From the opening, it’s clear that lives are expendable, and the journey to stop the deific Paintress is grim. Most expeditioners meet swift ends. But in the midst of this existential chaos comes a strange, wonderful relief: a goofy, lovable, rock-obsessed giant named Esquie.
A Loud Entrance and a Warm Welcome
Players meet Esquie early in the game, near the moment they first encounter the Gestrels — small, battle-ready beings with endless charm. Esquie doesn’t let you into his nest until you shout a password (no, it’s not actually “GET OUT OF MY WAY!”), and once you pass the test and grab his prized rock from his companion François, Esquie joins your expedition.
But he’s not just another party member — Esquie is your mount.
Yes, your mount.
Not a Fighter — a Friend
Esquie doesn’t fight. Instead, he carries you across the world, yelling things like “Exploration!” or “Time for swim swim!” His enthusiastic flapping arms and loud declarations bring a childlike energy to an otherwise bleak world. He’s talkative, energetic, and impossible to dislike.
As your bond deepens, Esquie gains the ability to retrieve underwater items, a mechanic tied directly to your growing friendship. It’s not just about functionality — it’s about connection. His relationship with Verso, the protagonist, gives us some of the game’s most emotional moments.
The Heart of Verso’s Story
Verso, weighed down by loss and guilt, struggles to express himself to others — except Esquie. Their bond stands out, even more than Verso’s romantic or dramatic relationships with other characters. Esquie is the one person Verso opens up to without a filter.
One standout scene sees Esquie trying to cheer Verso up during a somber camp moment, offering this gem: “I too am ‘Whooo.’ But I’m also ‘Wheee.’” It’s a deceptively silly line that captures Clair Obscur’s core duality — joy and sorrow, light and dark. In fact, the game’s title itself roughly translates to “light dark.”
Whether it’s dancing ballet while Verso plays piano, comforting Maelle, or just being present during moments of grief, Esquie is the group’s rock — literally and emotionally.
A Gentle Giant with No Conditions
In the game’s second act, when Verso’s true identity is revealed — that he’s a painted copy of a dead original — it’s Esquie who handles the revelation with grace. No judgment. No hesitation. Just a simple truth: “You’re my friend.” In a world where everyone’s dealing with trauma, betrayal, and existential dread, Esquie’s unwavering kindness is revolutionary.
He’s not just comic relief. He’s the soul of Clair Obscur. A goofy, rock-hugging, arm-flapping, joy-shouting soul.
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