What We Know About Splatoon Raiders So Far
Splatoon Raiders is a standalone entry, separate from the main multiplayer-focused series. According to the announcement, the game stars the Deep Cut trio and sends them on a new journey across the Spirhalite Islands. You’ll be playing as a mechanic, though Nintendo hasn’t explained what that means for gameplay just yet.
There’s no confirmed genre or gameplay footage beyond a few brief moments in the trailer. However, the tone feels different from the turf wars and salmon runs that define the core Splatoon experience. With Deep Cut at the center, the focus might lean more on story or exploration.
Nintendo has yet to announce a release window, and no pricing or multiplayer features have been shared either. One thing is clear: this is a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive.
Splatoon 3 Update Also on the Way
There’s also a big update coming to Splatoon 3 on June 12 for both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. This free patch brings a fresh batch of weapons and features.
The update includes the Splatlands collection, with 30 new weapon kits from the Barazushi and Emberz brands. These weapons are based on past favourites but come with new sub and special combinations. Nintendo is also bringing back Urchin Underpass, a stage from the original Splatoon on Wii U.
Other changes include raised Freshness caps for all weapons, new in-game Badges to earn, and a new stat for Anarchy Battle (Series) called Series Weapon Power. It tracks how well you perform with each weapon and pairs you up with others who play at a similar level. That means trying something new won’t feel like a disadvantage.
Splatoon 3 update 10.0 also includes Nintendo Switch 2 performance and visual updates. This means you’ll see improved visuals and smoother performance in places like Splatsville and the Grand Festival Grounds. Cross-play between both Switch systems is supported too, so everyone can jump in together.
Still Plenty of Ink Ahead
We don’t know much about Splatoon Raiders yet, but it already feels like a fresh take on the series. With Deep Cut front and center and a new island setting to explore, there’s plenty to look forward to. And with Splatoon 3 still getting regular updates, it’s clear Nintendo is sticking with the series for the long haul.
For now, you can check out the official trailer and start speculating. What do you think Splatoon Raiders will focus on? Let us know your theories and hopes in the comments.
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Thanks for this article, Jon! Everything happens so fast in the video; it’s nice to have everything laid down so cleanly in text so I can really see how the pieces fit together. I’m hoping Splatoon Raiders will be more story-driven/adventure than the mainline series. Either way, it looks graphically beautiful!
I really enjoyed Splatoon 2 and I have to get around to playing 3. With this update it sounds like the perfect time to pop it in my switch 2.