Clair Obscur Expedition 33’s Manor Studio a visual illusion

For developers creating immersive worlds, the environment in which they work often shapes the very atmosphere of their creations. For Sandfall Interactive, this principle extends beyond their games; it defines their workspace, which has become a reflection of the unique spirit driving their development.

The company’s headquarters is housed in a stately manor that bears a striking resemblance to the environment found in their breakout sensation, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. While this visual similarity might seem like a coincidence, it speaks to a deliberate choice that prioritizes atmosphere over mere functionality.

Guillaume Broche, the creative director and CEO of Sandfall Interactive, explains the rationale behind their choice. He notes that while the building is not excessively large, it serves a vital purpose: creating an environment where the team can simply relax and collaborate.

“We wanted the office to feel like entering a house where you are just making games with friends,” Broche shares. “Our philosophy was that coming to work shouldn’t feel like coming to an office, but rather like entering a home where everyone feels welcome and can joke around freely.”

This desire for warmth and intimacy contrasts sharply with their previous workspace. When the team was smaller, they occupied a space that Broche described as very small and of poor quality.

When Sandfall Interactive expanded its team and secured the building known as The Manor in Montpellier, it provided the ideal canvas for this philosophy. Although the manor is not massive with sprawling gardens, it fosters closeness among the staff, which significantly eases communication and interaction.

Beyond the interior design, the team has cultivated shared leisure spaces, including a garden where they regularly enjoy activities like Pétanque and Ping Pong, further integrating playfulness into their professional life.

Ultimately, despite the potential for even larger spaces following the success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Broche remains committed to keeping their home base tight. For him, maintaining this focused space is crucial to preserving the independent spirit that fueled their original creative success.