Double Fine Productions has announced Kiln, a new multiplayer game that combines pottery creation with team-based arena combat. The title was revealed during the latest Xbox Developer_Direct, offering a closer look at its gameplay systems, creative direction, and planned release window.
In Kiln, players take on the role of small spirits that inhabit clay pots they create themselves. Pottery creation is a core mechanic rather than a cosmetic feature. Players shape their pots on a wheel, and every design choice affects how the character performs in combat. Size, weight, and form determine movement speed, durability, water capacity, and available attacks.
According to Project Lead Derek Brand, the development team focused on making the pottery system easy to use while still giving players control over gameplay outcomes. Players start by selecting the amount of clay—small, medium, or large—which defines the pot’s general role. Smaller pots move faster, while larger ones can carry more water and withstand more damage.
Each size category includes eight different shapes, such as bowls, cups, bottles, and cylinders. Every shape comes with its own move set, including a basic attack, an aerial move, and a special ability. Double Fine confirmed there are 24 special attacks in total, all inspired by the practical function of each pot shape. For example, flat pots can bounce attacks between enemies, while taller forms can be used for heavy strikes.
Water management is central to Kiln’s competitive design. Pots with higher water capacity trade off health, forcing teams to balance offense, defense, and support roles. This system encourages varied team compositions and tactical decisions during matches.
After completing a pot, players enter The Wedge, the game’s shared social hub set within the domain of the goddess Celadon. The area serves as a lobby, training space, and customization center. Players can test abilities in a dojo, view other players’ creations, claim pots for use in battle, and purchase cosmetic items using in-game currency earned through matches.
Combat takes place primarily in a mode called Quench. Two teams of four players compete to collect and transport water across the map to extinguish the opposing team’s kiln. Maps are built around movement challenges and environmental interactions, reducing the need for voice communication and allowing players to rely on visual cues and map design.
Each arena draws inspiration from ancient mythology. Maps based on gods such as Athena, Hermes, and Dionysus introduce unique mechanics, including moving platforms, environmental hazards, and interactive elements that can alter the flow of a match. Double Fine says variety in map design is a priority for launch, with additional modes planned based on player feedback after release.
Kiln is scheduled to launch in Spring 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, Xbox Cloud Gaming, PlayStation 5, and Steam. The game will support Xbox Play Anywhere, be optimized for handheld devices, and be available through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate at launch.
