Splatoon 3
News, coverage and analysis tracking Splatoon 3 across the outlets.
Latest coverage
Nintendo Basically Says That Splatoon 4 Will Happen
Nintendo producer Seita Inoue confirmed that the Splatoon franchise will continue to feature competitive PvP gameplay, even mentioning the possibility of "Splatoon 4." He clarified that the spin-off Splatoon Raiders was created to offer a different gameplay approach and serve as a new entry point into the series, emphasizing that Splatoon isn't solely about competitive play. The comments suggest a traditional Splatoon 4 is likely, potentially as a Switch 2 exclusive.
Nintendo explains why it’s coming out with Splatoon Raiders instead of Splatoon 4
Nintendo explained its decision to release Splatoon Raiders instead of Splatoon 4, citing a desire for a different gameplay approach that allows players to savor the action solo. Producers Seita Inoue and Yoshihiko Ito revealed that the spin-off leverages Salmon Run gameplay for a single-player experience, potentially taking advantage of the Nintendo Switch 2's power.
Splatoon Raiders Review - A well seasoned meal
Splatoon Raiders offers an engaging single-player experience with varied missions and outstanding weapon customization, though it suffers from limited outfit options and some restrictive level-up mechanics. The game follows the idol trio Deep Cut as they explore the Spirhalite Isles, battling Salmonids and uncovering treasure. Despite its shortcomings, the game provides a fun cast of characters and a robust PvE multiplayer component, making it a worthwhile addition to the Splatoon franchise.
Splatoon Raiders review: "This looter shooter twist works better than I expected across solo and co-op play, while keeping the Squidling vibes joyfully intact"
Splatoon Raiders offers a surprisingly effective solo loot shooter experience that retains the series' signature "Squidling vibes." While it has some rough edges, including a late-game difficulty spike and questionable weapon balance, the core combat and upgrade systems are satisfying. The game successfully translates the Splatoon formula into a non-PvP adventure, playable solo or with up to three friends.
Splatoon Raiders review: Squid marks the spot
Splatoon Raiders offers a fun, albeit somewhat shallow, looter-shooter experience on the Nintendo Switch, featuring familiar Splatoon mechanics and charming characters. While the core gameplay loop of treasure hunting and combat is engaging, the game suffers from repetitive level design and enemy variety, making it feel less ambitious than its potential. It shines brightest in co-op with friends, providing short, entertaining sessions.
Splatoon Raiders review - salmon fishy going on
Splatoon Raiders adapts the popular Salmon Run co-op mode into a primarily single-player experience for the Nintendo Switch, but struggles to justify its existence with minimal new ideas and a lack of compelling story. While the core Salmon Run gameplay remains enjoyable, especially with optional online co-op, the linear levels and repetitive structure make it a slight and unnecessary diversion that fails to innovate.
Splatoon Raiders Shows The Series Should Have Always Been A Looter Shooter
Splatoon Raiders offers a satisfying single-player looter shooter experience that revitalizes the Splatoon franchise. While some traditional weapons feel less effective, the game's extensive gadget customization and chaotic PvE challenges provide a compelling gameplay loop. The brief, engaging stages make it ideal for quick play sessions, and the co-op raids add further value.
Splatoon Raiders: What Busy Adults Need to Know Before July 23
Splatoon Raiders, a new exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2 launching July 23, removes competitive multiplayer in favor of a treasure-hunting loot game experience. Players take on the role of a mechanic hired by Deep Cut to explore islands, battle Salmonids, and collect loot, with a focus on accessible gameplay and persistent progression. The game will cost $49.99 digitally and $59.99 physically, and while it supports online co-op, it lacks split-screen functionality.
Nintendo Switch eShop charts – July 18, 2026 – Tomodachi Life starts a new streak
The Nintendo Switch eShop charts for the week of July 18, 2026, show Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream retaining the top position. The charts list the top 30 best-selling games overall and the top 30 download-only titles.
Nintendo reveals Japan’s best-selling Switch 2 and Switch eShop games for first half of 2026
Nintendo has released its list of best-selling games in Japan for the first half of 2026 on both the Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch platforms. Pokemon Pokopia topped the charts for the Switch 2, while Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream led sales on the original Switch. The lists feature a mix of new releases and enduring popular titles.
Famitsu software sales (7/6/26 – 7/12/26) – Top 30
Famitsu has released its Japanese software sales data for the week of July 6-12, 2026. Rhythm Heaven Groove for Nintendo Switch topped the charts with over 126,000 units sold. The data includes sales figures for various titles across Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch 2.
Splatoon Raiders outlines its co-op shooter RPG gameplay as it swims to July 23 release
Splatoon Raiders, a new co-op shooter RPG from Nintendo, is set to release on July 23rd for the Nintendo Switch. The game features a single-player campaign with up to three players joining in co-op, and players can customize their playstyle with various weapons, gadgets, and tanks.
Team Power won Splatoon 3 x Splatoon Raiders Collaboration Splatfest
Team Power emerged victorious in the recent Splatoon 3 x Splatoon Raiders Collaboration Splatfest, securing a winning score of 365 points. The event saw intense competition over the weekend.
Splatoon 3 x Splatoon Raiders Collaboration Splatfest results
The Splatoon 3 x Splatoon Raiders collaboration Splatfest has concluded, with Team Power emerging as the victor. Players chose between speed, power, and tactics, with Team Power ultimately securing the win with a final score of 365 points, followed by Team Speed (285) and Team Tactics (220).
Nintendo Switch eShop charts – July 11, 2026 – Tomodachi Life returns to the top
The Nintendo Switch eShop charts for the week of July 11, 2026, show Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream returning to the number one spot, bumping Rhythm Heaven Groove to second. Moonlight Peaks debuted at third place in its first week. The article also lists the top 30 overall games and top 30 download-only games.
Fighting Style Splatfest start & end time, rewards - Splatoon 3
Splatoon 3 is hosting a Fighting Style Splatfest, a crossover event with Splatoon Raiders, where players choose between Speed, Power, or Tactics. The event runs for 48 hours starting July 10th and offers rewards like Super Sea Snails based on player performance and catalog level. This Splatfest introduces a new Tank mechanic inspired by Splatoon Raiders.
Famitsu software sales (6/29/26 – 7/5/26) – Top 30
Famitsu has released its Japanese software sales data for the week of June 29, 2026, to July 5, 2026. Rhythm Heaven Groove for Nintendo Switch topped the charts with 393,378 units sold. Several titles, including Ganbare Goemon Daishuugou and R-Type Dimensions 3, debuted on the list across Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 platforms.
Nintendo celebrates this weekend’s special Splatfest with new artwork
Nintendo is celebrating an upcoming Splatoon 3 Splatfest with a special Raiders theme by releasing new artwork. The event will allow players to choose between Team Power, Team Speed, and Team Tactics.
Nintendo Download: No Stranger to Adventure
Nintendo has announced its latest download offerings for the Nintendo Switch, featuring new releases like Digimon Story Time Stranger and Granblue Fantasy: Relink. The update also includes classic titles for Nintendo Switch Online members, such as Fortified Zone and Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3. Additionally, pre-orders are open for Cozy Grove: Camp Spirit, and various sales and activities are highlighted.
Nintendo Download – July 9, 2026 (North America) – Digimon Story: Time Stranger, Granblue Fantasy: Relink – Endless Ragnarok, more
Nintendo's North American eShop update for the week of July 9, 2026, features new releases like Digimon Story: Time Stranger and Granblue Fantasy: Relink – Endless Ragnarok for Nintendo Switch 2. The update also includes numerous digital titles for the Nintendo Switch, along with sales, a Splatoon 3 themed Splatfest, and promotions for Nintendo Switch Online and Star Fox merchandise.
