In Kiln, you and your team of spirits need to make pots to carry water. Your goal is to find and put out the opponent’s Kiln before they do the same to yours. Using a mix of defense, attacking, and smashing pots strategically will help you win.
There are different types of pots to choose from, including plates, vases, and cups. Your play style and strategy will determine which type is best for you. Here’s what beginners should know to get started with Kiln.
Side Routes and Shortcuts
Each map has a unique layout with platforms, hidden gaps for small pots to slip through, side paths, and booster ramps. Before each game, the game shows you key spots, like where water appears and some moving platforms. Keep these areas in mind, as they can give you an advantage.
As you play more, you’ll learn each map and which pot size and type work best. Some maps are better for small pots to sneak past enemies, while others favor a defensive approach. Experiment with different tactics for each map to find what suits you.
Size Matters
Choose your pots carefully, not just for looks. The size and health of your pot are important for your strategy. For example, if your team needs a defender, a pot with high health points (HP) is useful, even if it’s small. If you’re focusing on attacking, a pot with a bigger water capacity allows you to splash more water onto the opponent’s Kiln.
Small pots are quick and nimble, making it easy to dodge attacks and reach the Kiln faster. Larger pots can do more damage and withstand more hits, so pick what fits your role on the team.
Custom Crockery
Kiln offers lots of ways to customize your pots. You can add glazes, stickers, toppers, spouts, and handles to make your pot stand out. As you level up, more customization options unlock, giving your pots a unique look.
Visit Slip the Dog at the Kiln Shop. Use the chips you earn from matches to buy new decorations. These choices are purely for style—they won’t affect how fast or effective your pots are in gameplay. However, some players find that smaller, black pots tend to slip past opponents more easily.
Protect Your Kiln
While it’s exciting to focus on dousing the enemy’s Kiln, don’t forget about your own. Keep an eye on where your team is. If most are attacking, consider playing more defensively to protect your Kiln.
A good strategy is to have a pot with high HP, like a plate, to stand guard. Small or medium sized plates can deal damage and have enough durability to stay in the fight. Fast, small pots can also be helpful—they can quickly slip in and out, avoiding attacks and making quick hits.
Every Drop Counts
Filling your pot completely and hitting the opponent with a Super Splash is ideal, but that’s not always possible. You might need to roll away quickly, losing some water, or get smashed and spill. Still, releasing whatever water you have onto their Kiln can make a difference. Even a small splash might turn the tide and help you win.
Peruse Player Pots
In the lobby, before a match begins, you’ll see pots placed on plinths. These are made by players or placed by Celadon. Look at their designs for inspiration, and try out any pot you like. You can also add them to your collection or test new sizes and shapes at the pottery wheels nearby.
Wander the Wedge
The Wedge isn’t just a waiting area; it’s a hub. You can meet Slip the Dog and browse his store, check out other players’ pots or watch pottery being made. You can even craft your own at the wheels or try out your creations in the practice arena near Celadon and Slip. There are also fun activities like splashing shapes with yellow sponge tiles or smashing Potty for bonus XP. It’s a lively place to hang out and maybe find allies for your matches.
Switch It Up
Sometimes during a game, you might realize your current pot isn’t suitable for the situation. You can quickly craft a new one before respawning if you get smashed.
Use the pottery wheel to create a spare pot suited to your immediate needs. Nothing fancy is required; just make a simple pot to adapt to changing circumstances on the fly. This quick thinking can help you stay competitive in the game.