Creator of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Says Lost Odyssey Is the Last Great Turn-Based JRPG with Realistic Graphics

The title crafted by Hironobu Sakaguchi and Nobuo Uematsu for the Xbox 360 became an emotional milestone for Guillaume Broch. He said its thematic depth and writing affected him so profoundly that it was the last game to make him cry.

The developer feels the backlash was unduly severe, dismissing the project as “outdated” amid the surge of open‑world design. Broch contends that its linear structure, world map and compelling narrative cement Lost Odyssey as one of the standout JRPGs of its era.

Its limited reach stemmed from platform choice — released on Xbox 360 while many JRPG enthusiasts were on PlayStation. Despite achieving cult status, the game never received a follow‑up.

Today that legacy lives on in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Its turn‑based timing mechanics, realistic visuals and mature themes continue the traditions of Lost Odyssey and classic JRPGs. Expedition 33 revives a style long considered passé in the genre, and it became the most‑nominated title at The Game Awards 2025. Broch hopes for a Lost Odyssey remaster so a new generation can discover the cult classic.

Source: iXBT.games