Microsoft's creatively innovative studio, Double Fine Productions, has another exciting project! During today's (January 23rd) "Developer_Direct '26" livestream, founder Tim Schafer personally unveiled a unique and imaginative new multiplayer game – *Kiln*. Defined as an "Online Multiplayer Pottery Party Brawler," the game will officially launch in Spring 2026, simultaneously on Xbox, PlayStation 5, and Steam.
First courtesy, then force: carefully sculpt the pottery, then smash it.
Kiln's core gameplay perfectly blends two extreme concepts: "creation" and "destruction".
During the creation phase, the game simulates the real pottery throwing process. Players can unleash their creativity to design ceramic containers of all shapes and sizes, from delicate little dishes to huge water tanks. They can then decorate them with glazes and stickers to create a unique character (or rather, a unique "container").
These ceramic artifacts are not for exhibition. Once the battle begins, these containers will grow arms and legs and engage in a chaotic and hilarious battle.
"Quench" Mode: Water Splashing Battle
Double Fine showcased a game mode called "Quench," which is similar to the classic Capture the Flag game.
In this mode, players must cooperate with teammates to use their bodies (containers) to carry water to the enemy's kiln and extinguish its flames. At the same time, players must also prevent opponents from doing the same to their own kiln.
Interestingly, the "shape" that players create during the creation phase will directly affect combat performance. Different types of containers have different attack methods and defensive capabilities, so the team needs to have pottery of different shapes to make tactical combinations. Whether to be a tough, large water tank or a nimble, small dish assassin depends entirely on the player's pottery skills.
Listing Information
• Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Steam.
• Services: Game Pass Ultimate and Xbox Cloud Gaming are included at launch.
• Release date: Spring 2026.
