The “untranslatable” book that inspired Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has been translated, and you can buy it later this year
For over two decades, Alain Damasio’s La Horde du Contrevent (Horde of the Counterwind) has remained a cult classic primarily confined to French-speaking audiences, earning a reputation as virtually untranslatable due to its complex, experimental language. Now, an official English translation is finally arriving, making this influential novel accessible to a global audience.
The novel follows a horde of hardy expeditioners undertaking a relentless journey against the devastating wind that ravages their desolate homeland. Its imaginative worldbuilding and unique narrative approach have made it a touchstone for creators across media, most notably inspiring the acclaimed and commercially successful video game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
Published by Abrams Books, the English translation will be released in hardback in the United States on October 13, 2026, with a UK release following on November 12, 2026. The long-awaited translation represents a significant moment for Damasio’s work, potentially introducing his distinctive storytelling style to millions of new readers and gaming enthusiasts curious about the literary roots of a major contemporary title.