Double Fine reveals Kiln, a playful new multiplayer pottery game
Indie studio Double Fine is stepping into a fresh creative space with Kiln, a multiplayer title that pairs cozy clay shaping with social collaboration. Coming hot on the heels of Keeper, the atmospheric adventure game released last year, Kiln marks a tonal shift for the studio and a chance to explore a shared sandbox where players craft, collaborate, and compete in a friendly setting.
A look at the concept and design goals
Kiln centers on a simple, tactile mechanic: players take turns shaping clay and adding tiny, decorative flourishes to build unique ceramic pieces. The game emphasizes cooperation and playful competition, with players often trading tips, sharing glazing ideas, and critiquing each other’s work in a lighthearted, supportive environment. The design team at Double Fine has described Kiln as a social sandbox rather than a traditional competitive game, inviting friends and strangers alike to experiment with form, color, and texture in real time.
Accessible, cozy, and creative
One of Kiln’s strongest selling points is its accessibility. The controls are designed to be intuitive for players of all skill levels—whether you’re a seasoned gamer or someone who enjoys hands-on crafts in real life. The art direction leans into warm, inviting visuals that evoke a sunny studio with natural light catching on the curves of freshly shaped bowls and vases. The soundscape reinforces the serene vibe, featuring the soft thump of clay and the gentle whirr of a pottery wheel alongside a curated playlist that enhances focus without overpowering conversation.
What players can expect from multiplayer pottery
In Kiln, sessions unfold in shared workshops where players can collaborate on large projects—think collaborative vessels, community mugs, and improvised sculpture installations. The game leverages asynchronous and real-time modes, so participants can join a session and contribute when it suits them. The social layer is central: players leave notes, vote on public displays, and curate gallery spaces that showcase the community’s best, quirkiest, and most ambitious pieces.
A balanced mix of creativity and friendly competition
While Kiln is rooted in cooperation, there’s room for light-hearted rivalry. People can challenge each other to specific techniques, such as perfecting a glaze gradient or crafting a symmetrical form, with rewards that appear as decorative accents on shared works. This balance helps keep the game engaging for guests who may be new to gaming as well as for seasoned players who crave a creative outlet without the intensity of traditional competitive modes.
Why Kiln matters for Double Fine and the indie scene
Double Fine’s foray into a more intimate, craft-focused multiplayer title showcases the studio’s versatility and willingness to experiment with new genres. Kiln complements the studio’s catalog, proving that indie developers can successfully blend heartfelt artistry with social gameplay. For fans of Tim Schafer’s legacy, Kiln offers a different, but equally enchanting window into the studio’s creative philosophy: games that invite curiosity, community, and play without pressure.
What to expect next
While details remain subject to change, Double Fine has indicated Kiln is moving toward a broader beta phase in the coming months, with plans for cross-platform play and ongoing updates that expand the workshop’s tools and decorative options. The promise of evolving content means Kiln could become a go-to cozy-party game—perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or remote hangouts where players can relax and express themselves through clay-inspired creativity.
