Nintendo Announces Exclusive Splatoon Spin-Off and New Update for Splatoon 3
Exciting news for Splatoon fans today as Nintendo has revealed a brand new game exclusively for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The game, titled Splatoon Raiders, takes players on an adventure to the Spirhalite Islands where they will team up with the Deep Cut trio. As a skilled mechanic, you’ll navigate through this fresh, ink-filled world, offering new adventures and gameplay mechanics. Nintendo made the big reveal through a teaser trailer on its Nintendo Today! mobile app, giving a sneak peek into what promises to be a thrilling new chapter in the Splatoon universe.
While there are still plenty of unanswered questions about Splatoon Raiders, such as whether it will focus more on single-player or multiplayer action, the emphasis on its narrative-driven elements-especially the protagonist and their mysterious past-suggests a story-rich experience. The short gameplay segments shown also hint at a unique blend of character-driven gameplay and action.
In a post from the official Splatoon America account on X, Nintendo teased the protagonist of Splatoon Raiders as an expert mechanic with a cryptic backstory. The reveal also included a curious look at their ink tank and walking robot companion, which could be integral to the gameplay. As of now, Nintendo hasn’t specified a release date, but with the game being a Switch 2 exclusive, it’s likely we’ll see some unique features and pricing. Fans are eager to find out if it will be priced similarly to past Nintendo exclusives, such as $50 or if it will be on the higher end of the spectrum at $80.
In addition to the announcement of Splatoon Raiders, Nintendo also confirmed that Splatoon 3 will receive a major update on June 12, 2025. Version 10.0 will bring back the fan-favorite Urchin Underpass map from the first Splatoon game, along with a fresh batch of weapons and cosmetics from the Splatlands Collection. Players can also look forward to new player stats and, most notably for Switch 2 owners, enhanced visuals and smoother gameplay in key locations like Splatsville and Grand Festival Grounds. The update will also introduce cross-play between Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 players, allowing for an even larger and more connected community.