France is home to some major video game talent, including Ubisoft and Nacon, but the breakout success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is different.

This game has been built by a relatively small team – although not quite as tiny as you may have seen – and is the debut project from a new developer. To be a Game of the Year frontrunner is nothing short of a miracle.

And it’s attracted attention from the French president Emmanuel Macron, who commented on the game’s official Instagram account.

“A million copies sold and, to date, one of the highest-rated games in history: yes, it’s French,” he exclaimed, via Google Translate.

“Bravo to Sandfall Interactive and all the creators of Expedition 33. You are a shining example of French audacity and creativity.”