French president Macron congratulates Sandfall on Clair Obscur’s record-breaking Game Awards success

The president of France, Emmanuel Macron, has congratulated developer Sandfall Interactive for its record-breaking success at The Game Awards with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.

In a post on Instagram, the politician said that the studio’s performance at the awards show was a source of “great pride” for both Montpellier, where the company is based, and France as a whole.

“Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has just been named Game of the Year in Los Angeles,” Macron wrote.

“A historic first for a French title! Great pride for Montpellier and for France. Congratulations to the Sandfall Interactive team. For future generations and those that follow!”

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 was nominated in 12 categories at The Game Awards 2025 and won a record nine prizes at the show, including Game of the Year, Best Independent, Best Indie Debut and Best RPG.

In a post on social media, Sandfall thanked the game’s audience for the massive success the studio has seen this last year.

“As our team celebrates this unforgettable evening, we want to raise our glasses and celebrate with you,” Sandfall wrote.

“Thank you to everyone who helped bring Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 to life. Thank you to all our players for your passion, the love you’ve shared with us, and your incredible creations.”

This is the second time that Macron has expressed his admiration for Sandfall Interactive and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Back in May, the French president praised the studio for the game selling over one million copies in its first three days on sale.

“One million copies sold and currently one of the highest-rated games in history, and yes, it’s French,” Macron wrote.

“Congratulations to Sandfall Interactive and all the creators of Expedition 33. You are a shining example of French audacity and creativity.”