Can you romance in Clair Obscur Expedition 33?

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 offers some deep character relationships, but does it include characters' romance? While the game is focused on the bonds between the party members, it does or does not follow the traditional dating mechanics, which is a major question in the minds of the players. Here is what you need to know about the relationships in Clair Obscur Expedition 33 and whether love remains in the game’s cards.

Romance in Clair Obscur Expedition 33 does not seem to be the core feature of the game. Unlike other games, here, there remains no dating mechanics or overt love confessions. However, the relationships here matter. It deepens the bonds, unlocking some powerful abilities, trophies, and story moments.

The closest thing to romantic characters in the game is Gustave backstory. It hints at the lost love. However, for the other party members, the interactions are platonic and yet meaningful. The dialogue choices strengthen the friendships instead of leading to romance.

Instead of romance, Clair Obscur Expedition 33 is focused on camaraderie and friendship. Talking to the characters at the camp raises their Relationship Levels while unlocking new dialogue (revealing the backstories), gradient attacks (some powerful combat skills), and cosmetic rewards (outfits and hairstyles).
Each of the characters has 7 relationship tiers. They max out at Level 7. To reach the highest tier will grant Achievements/Trophies and their strongest abilities.

While the game does not advertise romance between the 2 characters, Sciel and Lune, the characters have a subtle romantic undertone. However, both the characters cannot be romanced in 1 playthrough.

The subtle mechanic mirrors the real-life relationship stakes. Choose wisely, as the commitments remain irreversible. Neither of the paths offers any explicit love scenes, but the dialogue shifts hint at deeper connections, rewarding the players who are attentive with the unique narrative threads.

Even without romance, relationships matter. To max out the bonds is not just about the story. It directly impacts the gameplay. Like,

If you skip the Camp conversations, you will miss some of the best storytelling in the game and some powerful combat tools, too.

The game gives priority to friendship, but bonds built by the players still feel rewarding. While you will not get the love confessions or the dating scenes, emotional connections, and the gameplay perks make the relationship-building worthwhile.
For the players who are craving romance, Lune and Sciel will offer you the closest experience in the game. Just remember, you can pursue only one per playthrough. Also, the rest of the characters are loyal allies and not lovers.