Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 introduces a variety of mechanics that can initially seem complex. Even seasoned gamers familiar with tutorials might overlook certain features or misinterpret their function. Two such mechanics are Pictos and Luminas, which play a crucial role in character development. This guide clarifies the distinction between Pictos and Luminas and explains how to leverage them effectively.
Sciel Pictos menu in Clair Obscur Expedition 33
Decoding Pictos
Each character in your party can equip up to three Pictos simultaneously. As you progress, your Picto collection will expand rapidly, with increasingly higher levels. Higher-level Pictos offer enhanced stat boosts. Each Picto provides one or two stat improvements and a unique passive trait.
Consider the level seven Picto “Energising Pain” equipped by Lune in the image above. This Picto grants a substantial 308 Health and 34 Defense boost. Its passive ability grants Lune one AP (action point) each time she is hit, rather than upon parrying. This Picto is ideal for characters frequently targeted by enemies and requiring increased survivability. It’s strategically advantageous to diversify stat boosts across equipped Pictos, avoiding overemphasis on a single stat while neglecting others. Some Pictos appear greyed out, while others display a colored icon. Successfully completing a battle with a Picto equipped unlocks its Lumina form for all characters.
Unlocking the Power of Luminas
At the beginning of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, your Lumina capacity is limited. Luminas allow you to utilize the passive effects of Pictos without equipping them, granting access to the passive ability without the associated stat boosts. Each Lumina requires a specific number of Lumina points to activate, ranging from one to 20 points.
Gustave Luminas menu in Clair Obscur Expedition 33.
To unlock a Picto’s Lumina, simply equip it and complete a battle successfully. Access the Lumina menu by pressing L3 (C key on PC) while in the Picto editing screen. If a character already has the corresponding Picto equipped, its Lumina is automatically activated. As you acquire more Lumina points, you gain the flexibility to activate Luminas for multiple characters, even utilizing those from previously discarded Pictos.
For instance, if Gustave has 30 Lumina points, you can choose between activating a few high-cost Luminas or numerous low-cost ones. A balanced approach is recommended, prioritizing Luminas that complement each character’s combat style. Activating a Lumina like “Critical Burn” for Gustave wouldn’t be effective if his skillset lacks fire damage and burn effects. However, this Lumina would benefit characters like Lune or Maelle, who possess fire-based abilities, by increasing their critical hit chance against burning enemies. Continuously adapt each character’s activated Luminas as you adjust their Pictos and unlock new ones.
Curator menu in Clair Obscur Expedition 33.
Expanding Your Lumina Capacity
To increase Lumina points, utilize “Colors of Lumina,” found during exploration and as battle rewards. During Act 1, a character in your camp will enable you to apply Colors of Lumina to your party members. Characters also gain one Lumina point per level up, gradually expanding their Lumina capacity.
Conclusion
Pictos and Luminas are integral to character progression in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Understanding their interplay allows for strategic customization, enhancing character builds and optimizing combat effectiveness. By carefully selecting Pictos for stat boosts and activating complementary Luminas, you can significantly improve your party’s performance and conquer the challenges ahead.
