Massive Chalice

Lore & Background

The player assumes the role of an immortal ruler defending a kingdom from a monstrous army called the Cadence, whose touch is deadly to most humans and leaves magical corruption. The ruler is aided by the Massive Chalice, a magical artifact with two personalities that requires 300 years to build energy to cleanse the Cadence. After holding out for 300 years and defeating a final assault, the Chalice reveals it can only banish the Cadence temporarily, and the process shatters the Chalice and kills the ruler, implying the ruler has undergone this cycle repeatedly with amnesia.

Gameplay alternates between Strategy mode, where the player makes long-term decisions and manages the kingdom's population, and Tactical mode, where the player commands a team of heroes in turn-based battles. The Chalice has limited energy for projects, and the Cadence attacks multiple locations simultaneously, forcing the player to choose which battle to fight. Heroes are attuned to the Chalice but are not immortal, so the player establishes bloodlines by retiring heroes to become regents of noble houses and arranging marriages. Newborn heroes inherit genetic traits and personality from parents, and same-sex couples can adopt attuned babies found in the kingdom.

Heroes start in one of three classes: Caberjacks (melee with battering-ram-like cabers), Hunters (ranged with giant crossbows), and Alchemists (explosive weapons resembling bladed lacrosse sticks). Children inherit the class of their parents; if parents are of different classes, one of six hybrid classes results based on which parent is regent. Heroes' statistics change with age—young heroes are faster but weaker, old heroes slower but wiser—and they may develop new personality traits from experiences. If a distinguished hero dies, their personal weapon may become a Relic, a magical artifact passed down in their house.

Reader's Guide

Massive Chalice received mixed or average reviews according to Metacritic. Critics noted that the nation management was described as simple and sterile, and that the game became a slog by mid-game. Game Informer called it rough around the edges but hard to put down, criticizing graphics, user interface, and soundtrack while praising compelling gameplay. Eurogamer recommended the game, stating that enjoyment depends on accepting it is more about making the best of a flawed hand than building a perfect system, and called it a huge return to form for Double Fine. IGN criticized that decisions lacked weight due to unpredictable variables and aging mortal characters. PC Gamer praised the bloodlines concept as the game's greatest feature but criticized poor AI and insubstantial combat. GameSpot praised the eugenics experiments, combat, and tone, while criticizing art style and lack of hero personality. Shacknews noted a steep learning curve and lack of cover system, but lauded the bloodline system and tactical gameplay. Despite mixed reception, the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences nominated Massive Chalice for Outstanding Achievement in Game Design at the 19th Annual D.I.C.E. Awards.

Did You Know?

• The game was Double Fine's second Kickstarter campaign, following Broken Age in 2012.
• Same-sex marriage was added after backer requests, which project lead Brad Muir said was easier to implement due to early backer input.
• Heroes can develop new personality traits from their experiences on the battlefield.
• The Chalice's two personalities advise the player throughout the game.