BETHESDA’S TODD HOWARD JUST CROWNED THE MOST UNLIKELY GAME OF THE YEAR – AND IT’S NOT EVEN A BETHESDA GAME!

Todd Howard, the legendary boss of the Elder Scrolls and Fallout series, has just dropped a bombshell: his game of the year is none other than Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Yes, you read that right – not a Bethesda game, but a game that's been making waves in the gaming community with its unique art style and glorious combat.

When asked by Eurogamer's social producer Mat Jones about his game of the year choice, Howard didn't hesitate: "Expedition 33 is really unique and amazing." He even gave a shoutout to Death Stranding 2 and Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, but it's clear that Expedition 33 has stolen his heart.

But what makes Expedition 33 so special? Let's dive into the game's stunning artwork and combat mechanics and find out why it's been hailed as a masterpiece by gamers and critics alike.

The Rivalry Heats Up

It's worth noting that Bethesda shadow-dropped The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered just two days before Expedition 33's release, with both games available on Xbox Game Pass. But did this move hurt Expedition 33's sales? Not according to Kepler's senior portfolio director Matt Handrahan, who said that the proximity to Oblivion "didn't seem to harm us at all".

It's clear that Expedition 33 has carved out its own niche in the RPG spectrum, offering a unique blend of Western and Japanese gaming styles that's resonated with players worldwide. And the numbers don't lie: Expedition 33 has sold over 5 million copies worldwide and is the frontrunner at next week's The Game Awards with a record-breaking 12 nominations.

Technical Breakdown: What Makes Expedition 33 Tick?

So, what makes Expedition 33 so special from a technical standpoint? Let's take a closer look at the game's engine and mechanics. With a custom-built engine and a focus on realism, Expedition 33 offers a gaming experience that's both visually stunning and deeply immersive.

From the game's stunning artwork to its glorious combat mechanics, every aspect of Expedition 33 has been carefully crafted to create a unique gaming experience. And with a strong focus on storytelling and player choice, it's no wonder that Expedition 33 has become a favorite among gamers and critics alike.

What’s Next for Todd Howard and Bethesda?

So, what's next for Todd Howard and Bethesda? With The Elder Scrolls 6 still in development, Howard has his work cut out for him. But he's not worried about the pressure, saying that he's committed to "protecting artistry" in his games and using AI to enhance the gaming experience, not replace it.

And as for Expedition 33, it's clear that it's here to stay. With its unique blend of art and combat, it's a game that will continue to inspire and delight gamers for years to come.

Take Action: Play Expedition 33 and Experience Gaming Greatness!

• Get Expedition 33 on Xbox Game Pass or purchase it outright
• Experience the game's stunning artwork and glorious combat mechanics for yourself
• Join the conversation on social media and share your thoughts on Expedition 33
• Stay tuned for more updates on The Elder Scrolls 6 and other upcoming Bethesda games

Final Verdict

And there you have it, folks – Todd Howard's game of the year is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and it's a choice that's both surprising and well-deserved. With its unique art style, glorious combat, and immersive gameplay, Expedition 33 is a game that will continue to inspire and delight gamers for years to come. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and play Expedition 33 today and experience gaming greatness for yourself!