Sandfall Interactive Resolves Dispute with Graphic Novel Author Olivier Gay Over ‘Clair Obscur’ Title

Sandfall Interactive, the developer behind the popular game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, has withdrawn its legal challenge against French author Olivier Gay regarding the title of his graphic novel, L’Académie Clair-Obscur. The dispute arose after Sandfall’s legal representatives sent Gay a letter requesting he cease promoting and selling the comic, alleging it capitalized on the success of the game.

The situation began in early March 2026, when Gay publicly shared on X (formerly Twitter) that he had received a lawyer’s letter from Sandfall Interactive, ordering him to stop selling his comic published by Drakoo. Gay stated the request was based on the belief that his function was “riding on the game’s undeniable success” (Polygon). He explained that he initially pitched the graphic novel idea in 2019 and signed a contract for its publication in March 2024, prior to the release of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 in June 2024 (Polygon).

While the storylines and characters differ – Gay’s comic focuses on students at a magic school – the shared employ of “Clair Obscur” in the title, a term with roots in art history referring to “chiaroscuro,” and similarities in typography raised concerns for Sandfall (ixbt.games).

Sandfall Apologizes and Reverses Course

On Tuesday, March 10, 2026, Sandfall Interactive issued a statement on X apologizing for the delay in addressing the situation and confirming the withdrawal of its legal requests (Reddit). The company explained that its legal team’s role is to protect against counterfeit products, but acknowledged that the action taken toward Gay’s comic was misaligned with its values.

“Sandfall was working to withdraw the requests from our legal representative, which has now been done,” the statement read. “Their role is to protect us in particular against counterfeit products, but the action initiated toward the comic book ‘L’Académie Clair-Obscur’ published in January 2026 does not align with us.” Sandfall affirmed its support for artists and creativity and wished Gay and the comic’s artist, Grelin, success.

Gay Expresses Relief and Gratitude

Olivier Gay responded to Sandfall’s announcement with a message of gratitude on X, stating he was “relieved” and praising the studio’s decision. He confirmed that the comic would be able to continue sales without alterations or a title change (Polygon). He concluded his message with a nod to fans of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, referencing a popular in-game phrase: “For those who come after!”