Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Fan’s Merchandise Held by Customs Over “Ancient-Looking” Art Book

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In one of the most bizarre gaming stories, a fan’s experience with an official art book from Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has taken a wild turn.

User “Ahmed15252” shared a mind-blowing tale on a popular forum about how their copy of The Expeditioner’s Journal—a 48-page art book included with the special Monolith Set from Sandfall Interactive—was detained by customs in Iraq. The reason? Officials mistook it for an ancient artifact.

“This can’t be real,” Ahmed wrote. “My expedition journal that comes with the Monolith Set got detained by customs for being ‘possibly ancient.'” They detailed the entire saga, explaining how customs opened the package and deemed the art book too reminiscent of something from the past, citing its “drawings, symbols, vibes.” And honestly, it does have that archaeological feel to it.

Ahmed revealed the outcome of this mix-up: “The book has been officially sent to the Iraqi Museum / Technical Committee to confirm that it is, in fact, a modern video game art book and not a newly discovered lost artifact.” Imagine spending $120 only to have a crucial part of your purchase caught up in such a situation!

Despite the chaos, Ahmed is keeping a lighthearted attitude. “10/10 experience will definitely accidentally import history again,” they quipped, adding, “My video game art book was detained by customs for being ‘possibly ancient.'” Their post includes photos of the book and the letter from the Republic of Iraq’s Ministry of Culture, which is quite the sight.

It’s hard to believe this is happening—if it’s all true, it’s both unfortunate and hilarious. A word of caution to all: keep your video game relics under wraps when traveling!

The developers of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 have received a prestigious honor from the French Ministry of Culture, a recognition previously awarded to legends like Shigeru Miyamoto and the creator of Rayman.