Lorien Testard is a French composer specializing in video game music, primarily known for his acclaimed work on the soundtrack for the highly anticipated RPG Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (2025), the debut title from French studio Sandfall Interactive.

Born in 1994 and introduced to video games at a young age by his father who worked as a video game retailer, Lorien developed a passion for the medium before turning to music during his teenage years (around 16). Initially self-taught on the guitar, he later attended music school. For 4-5 years, he taught music and guitar lessons while concurrently composing music in his spare time. Even then, his compositions were always conceived with video games in mind, although he had no specific project attached yet. To build his portfolio and showcase his style, he created pieces weekly, sometimes reinterpreting existing game trailer music, and posted them on his Soundcloud page.

His career took a decisive turn when Guillaume Broche, founder of Sandfall Interactive, discovered his work on Soundcloud by chance while searching for music for his nascent game project. Broche initially contacted Testard about composing for a trailer for a somewhat different game concept. Testard’s work resonated strongly, and they began collaborating. Although the game evolved significantly into the dreamlike and unique world of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, some musical themes from that initial project were adapted and retained, reflecting the core sensitivity and themes that were present from the start. This opportunity fulfilled Testard’s long-held desire to compose specifically for video games.

For nearly five years, Lorien Testard dedicated himself almost exclusively to crafting the game’s sonic universe, working intensively, often daily, from his home. He emphasizes the immense creative freedom granted to him, possibly the most he could imagine on a project. He used early concept art as a key inspiration, aiming for a constant dialogue where music and visuals would influence each other. Drawing from his life experiences, personal sensitivity, and cherished memories of games like Final Fantasy and The Legend of Zelda and their music, he developed a distinctive sound for Clair Obscur, blending orchestral elements with ethereal vocals.

He collaborated closely with singer and composer Alice Duport-Percier, who co-wrote and performed on several tracks, sometimes singing in an invented, encrypted language designed to reveal hidden messages to players throughout the adventure. He also worked with orchestrator Daniel Sicard and the Orchestre Curieux for recordings.

Deeply touched and surprised by the overwhelmingly positive and emotional reception to his music even before the game’s release, Testard aimed to create pieces that enhance the game’s emotional impact and “remain in the hearts of players long after their adventure.” His work on Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, his debut composition for a video game, has been widely praised by critics and players alike, significantly contributing to the game’s immersion and unique artistic identity.