Splatoon 3 is a third-person shootervideo game developed and published by Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development (EPD) for the Nintendo Switch console.[1] Released worldwide on September 9, 2022, it serves as the third main entry in the Splatoon series, following Splatoon 2.[1] In the game, players control customizable squid-like characters known as Inklings or Octolings, who can switch between humanoid and squid forms to shoot colored ink, swim through it for mobility, and engage in fast-paced battles to cover arenas or defeat enemies.[1][2]Set in the sun-baked region of the Splatlands, with the hub city of Splatsville, Splatoon 3 emphasizes competitive multiplayer modes such as the core 4v4 Turf War, where teams vie to ink the most ground, and co-op Salmon Run Next Wave, defending against waves of Salmonids using special weapons.[2][3] New to the series are features like Tricolor Turf War battles involving three teams, an expanded weapon catalog including the bow-like stringer class, and improved motion controls for aiming.[4] The single-player campaign, titled Return of the Mammalians, follows Agent 3 and the New Squidbeak Splatoon as they battle the Octarian army amid mysteries involving the snowy Alterna facility and a substance called Fuzzy Ooze.[3][1]The game supports online multiplayer via Nintendo Switch Online, local wireless play, and a robust customization system for gear, hairstyles, and emotes, fostering a vibrant community-driven experience with seasonal updates and events like Splatfests.[3] An Expansion Pass, released in phases, adds content including a return to Inkopolis Plaza and the roguelite single-player mode Side Order, where Agent 8 navigates procedurally generated floors in a digital simulation to confront a rogue AI.[5][6] Upon launch, Splatoon 3 achieved record-breaking sales, surpassing 3.45 million units in Japan within its first three days—the largest software launch in the country's history—and has sold 11.96 million copies worldwide as of March 2024.[7][8]
Gameplay
Core mechanics
Splatoon 3's core gameplay revolves around third-person ink-based combat, where players control Inklings or Octolings that can switch between humanoid and cephalopod forms to engage in territorial battles. The primary objective in standard matches involves covering the arena's surface with team-colored ink while eliminating opponents by covering them completely in ink, known as "splat." This dual-purpose mechanic—turf coverage for scoring and direct combat for disruption—forms the foundation of the game's fast-paced, strategic loop.[3]Players wield a variety of main weapons to shoot ink, each designed for different playstyles and ranges. Shooters, such as the Splattershot, fire rapid bursts of ink for close- to mid-range engagements, allowing quick turf painting and aggressive pursuits. Chargers, like the Splatterscope, require players to hold a charge for powerful, long-range shots that can splat foes from afar but demand precise aiming and vulnerability during charging. Rollers, exemplified by the Splat Roller, enable players to fling ink in wide horizontal swings or vertical slams for area denial, excelling in close-quarters turf control but risking exposure during swings. These weapons encourage tactical positioning, as inking the environment not only scores points but also replenishes the player's ink supply.[9][10]A hallmark feature is the ability to transform into squid form (for Inklings) or octopus form (for Octolings), enabling rapid swimming through friendly ink at high speeds for evasion, repositioning, or ambushes. This transformation consumes ink but allows traversal of vertical surfaces covered in ink via Squid Surge, where players swim upward along walls to reach elevated areas. Introduced in Splatoon 3, the Squid Roll enhances mobility by letting players leap and twirl out of ink while swimming, providing a dodge mechanic to evade incoming fire and briefly reduce damage intake, adding depth to defensive maneuvers during intense chases.[3]Matches emphasize team-based objectives, with Turf War serving as the baseline mode where victory is determined by the percentage of turf covered in a team's ink at the end of the three-minute round. Teams of four coordinate to maximize coverage while preventing opponents from inking their territory, often leading to dynamic shifts as players balance offense, defense, and respawns. A new variant, Tricolor Turf War, modifies this for Splatfest events by pitting a four-player defending team against two two-player attacking teams, where attackers must coordinate strikes while the larger team holds ground, introducing asymmetric strategy to the core turf-control formula.[3][11]Customization plays a central role through loadouts, comprising a main weapon paired with a sub-weapon and a special weapon. Sub-weapons, such as the Splat Bomb—a throwable explosive that detonates after a delay to damage foes and ink turf—offer utility for zoning or escapes. Special weapons, like the Triple Splashdown, build up through continued inking and unleash powerful area-of-effect attacks, such as a leaping triple-strike that splats multiple opponents, rewarding sustained play. Players select loadouts pre-match from a roster of kits, allowing adaptation to team composition or map layouts.[10]Progression ties into the catalog system, where players earn Catalog Points from battles and side activities to level up their catalog, unlocking seasonal gear, abilities, and enhancements like increased ink efficiency or faster special charging. Abilities on clothing, such as Ink Recovery Up, further modify battle performance, encouraging experimentation with builds to optimize for specific weapons or strategies.[3]Among new features, locker customization allows players to personalize a personallocker space in the hub area, decorating it with stickers, gear, and mementos earned from matches to express individuality and share with friends, integrating social elements into the core experience without affecting combat.[1]
Multiplayer modes
Splatoon 3 offers a variety of multiplayer modes that emphasize both competitive and cooperative gameplay, allowing players to engage in online battles or local sessions using ink-based mechanics to outmaneuver opponents. These modes build on core systems like weapon usage and ink swimming to create diverse objectives, from territorial control to resource collection, and support matchmaking for solo or group play.[3]The foundational multiplayer mode is Turf War, a casual 4-versus-4 format where teams compete to cover the greatest amount of the stage with their respective inks over a three-minute match, with victory determined by the percentage of turf inked. This mode serves as an accessible entry point for players, rotating through different maps and encouraging free-form strategies without ranked consequences.[3]For more structured competition, Anarchy Battles provide ranked online play divided into Series and Open variants. In Anarchy Battle (Series), players are matched solo without friends under strict conditions, with matchmaking based on individual power levels that reflect weapon-specific performance and overall skill; a connection code allows friends to join specific lobbies for coordinated play. Anarchy Battle (Open) offers greater flexibility, allowing play with friends using team power levels for group matchmaking, across four objective-based rulesets: Splat Zones (control key areas), Tower Control (escort a mobile tower), Rainmaker (carry a special weapon to the enemy base), and Clam Blitz (collect and throw clams into a goal). Ranks progress from C- to S+ and beyond, with seasonal resets to maintain competitive balance. Friends in Open can use external voice chat via the Nintendo Switch Online app.[12][11]Salmon Run Next Wave introduces cooperative multiplayer for up to four players, who work as Grizzco employees to collect Golden Eggs by defeating waves of Salmonids during timed shifts on rotating sites. Players must protect the egg basket from King Salmonids—large bosses requiring coordinated attacks—while navigating new environmental hazards like fog that limits visibility and spawns additional threats, emphasizing teamwork and resource management over direct competition. Successful shifts earn currency for cosmetic unlocks, with higher difficulties unlocking advanced features like Big Run events.[1][13]Tableturf Battle is a turn-based, 1-versus-1 card game mode simulating Turf War on a grid, where players build decks of up to eight cards from three types: Action (movement and setup), Battle (direct attacks), and Special (powerful effects). Each of the 12 rounds involves placing cards to ink the board and outmaneuver the opponent, with online ranked matchmaking and a catalog for collecting over 100 cards through battles or in-game mail. This mode offers a strategic break from action-oriented play, supporting both casual friend matches and competitive leaderboards.[11]Private Battles enable customizable 4-versus-4 matches, either locally on a single console or online, where the host sets rules, maps, and time limits to replicate official modes or create variants. For team-focused ranked play, League Battles—part of the advanced X Battle category—require four-player squads to compete in the four core rulesets over a two-week season, earning team power based on collective performance to climb global rankings without individual tracking.[14][12]Splatfest events occur periodically, transforming multiplayer into a global spectacle where players vote for one of three teams based on themed questions, such as preferences for food or concepts. During the 48-hour event, Tricolor Turf War pits a team of four against two teams of two in battles on modified rules, with additional stages and uniforms; post-event results determine the winner by metrics like turf inked, grace (style points), and money earned, rewarding participants with tiered prizes including decorations and currency.[15][16]
Single-player campaign
The single-player campaign in Splatoon 3, known as "Return of the Mammalians," casts the player as Agent 3, the newest recruit of the New Squidbeak Splatoon, who explores the frozen wasteland of Alterna—a vast crater filled with Octarian remnants and remnants of ancient humancivilization—to thwart an emerging threat from the Octarian forces.[3] Guided by Captain Craig Cuttlefish, Agent 3 dons a specialized Hero Suit that allows traversal through ink and protection against environmental hazards, adapting core ink-shooting mechanics for solo platforming and combat in a narrative continuation of the series' Squidbeak Splatoon vs. Octarian conflict.[17] The campaign unfolds across six main sites within Alterna, such as Future Utopia Island and the Alterna Space Center, where players jump between inkable kettles to access over 70 levels blending exploration, environmental puzzles, and battles against Octarian foes like Octotroopers and Octobombers.[18][19]Gameplay emphasizes site-specific challenges that incorporate platforming elements, such as swimming through ink rivers, activating levers to rearrange terrain, and dodging fuzzy ooze hazards, all while using adapted Hero Mode weapons like the Hero Shot or Hero Charger to clear paths and defeat enemies.[20] Boss encounters provide narrative highlights, including multiple fights against DJ Octavio, the Octarian DJ leader from prior installments, who pilots massive mechs like the Octobot King L3.Gs in battles that tie directly to the series' lore of interspecies warfare and the mystery of mammalian extinction.[21] Other bosses, such as the sanitized Octarian commanders at each site's conclusion, escalate in complexity, requiring precise ink management and pattern recognition to overcome.[22]For full completion, players collect items like Sunken Scrolls, which reveal backstory through holographic lore entries; Power Eggs, gathered from defeated enemies to upgrade the Hero Suit's defenses and abilities; and hidden decorations, small items found throughout Alterna that unlock additional site surveys and can be used for locker customization upon collection.[23] Hero Mode levels tailor challenges to specific weapons, encouraging replays with variants like the Hero Brella for shielding or Splatana for melee strikes, to achieve perfect runs and uncover secrets.[18] After the credits, endgame content unlocks rematches of all bosses and stages, allowing experimentation with a full arsenal of adapted multiplayer weapons for higher difficulties and rewards like enhanced stickers and wallpapers.[24]
Setting
World and characters
The world of Splatoon 3 is situated in a post-apocalyptic Earth approximately 12,000 years after the extinction of humans, caused by environmental destruction, climate change, and rising sea levels that submerged much of the planet. In this era, society is dominated by anthropomorphic marine lifeforms, primarily Inklings—evolved from intelligent squids capable of transforming between humanoid and squid forms—and Octolings, their octopus-derived counterparts who share similar abilities and once served as historical rivals in the Great Turf War. These playable races inhabit a vibrant, ink-based culture centered on territorial battles known as Turf Wars, fashion, and music, with Inklings and Octolings now coexisting in urban hubs across the Splatlands, a sun-scorched desert region.[25]Key locations in Splatoon 3 include Splatsville, the chaotic central hub replacing Inkopolis from prior games, located in the heart of the Splatlands and characterized by its dusty, rowdy atmosphere and diverse residents. Splatsville serves as the primary gathering spot for battles, shopping, and social activities, featuring areas like the Main Square for gearing up, the online lobby for matchmaking, Grizzco Industries for cooperative Salmon Run missions, and the Shoal for local multiplayer setups. In contrast, Alterna is a vast underground facility beneath the nearby Crater, resembling a snowy, arctic-like expanse enclosed in a massive geodesic dome with triangular liquid crystal panels; it houses a space center, rocket ship, and extensive laboratories dedicated to scientific research.[26][27]The protagonist, Agent 3, is a customizable Inkling or Octoling recruit to the New Squidbeak Splatoon, serving as the player's avatar in the single-player campaign. Callie and Marie, the iconic Squid Sisters, are Inkling cousins and former pop idols who now take on advisory roles while maintaining their celebrity status through media appearances. Smallfry, a small Salmonid species resembling a chum with a glowing lure, acts as a loyal companion to Agent 3, assisting in both the campaign and Salmon Run mode where players defend against Salmonid hordes.[28][25]Supporting characters enrich the world, including Murch, a cycloptic sea urchin who operates a trading service near the lobby, allowing players to order gear, reroll abilities, and dispose of duplicates for cash. Annie, a shy octopus assistant, and her parrot companion Jellee manage weapon customization at Ammo Knights, helping decorate gear with Sheldon the horseshoe crab. The new idol group Deep Cut—comprising Shiver (a cool, blue-haired Octoling and shark tamer), Frye (a fiery, yellow-haired Inkling), and Big Man (a manta ray musician and songwriter)—hosts Anarchy Splatfests in Splatsville, announcing themes and performing as the city's broadcasters.[28][29]Lore elements deepen the universe through Alterna's audio logs, which reveal "Mammalian" history—detailing human civilization, their technological advancements, and extinction—preserved by scientists in cryogenic capsules like that of the cat Judd. Central to this is the Fuzzy Ooze, a pulsating, life-like substance discovered in Alterna that reacts uniquely with marine life, potentially transforming it into mammalian forms, tying into themes of evolution and environmental mystery without adverse effects on Salmonids like Smallfry.[27][25]
Plot summary
In the single-player campaign of Splatoon 3, titled "Return of the Mammalians," the player assumes the role of a new Agent 3, an Inkling or Octoling recruit to the New Squidbeak Splatoon, who enters the Crater via a manhole in Splatsville, where they meet Smallfry and are recruited by the retired Captain Craig Cuttlefish investigating the disappearance of the Great Zapfish.[25][30] Recruited into the organization—now comprising Cuttlefish, Callie as Agent 1, and Marie as Agent 2—Agent 3 dons a Hero Suit to battle fuzzy-covered Octarian forces and reclaim the Zapfish across four initial stages in the Crater.[31]The narrative progresses through major arcs centered on exploring six sites within the subterranean facility of Alterna, a preserved human research outpost filled with ancient artifacts and logs revealing the world's pre-inkling history.[32] Agent 3 delves into Octarian experiments, collects data on human extinction due to environmental catastrophe, and uncovers the origins of inkling and octoling evolution from squid and octopus ancestors, while navigating challenges posed by the spreading Fuzzy Ooze—a mysterious substance turning enemies furry and threatening ecological balance.[33] These explorations highlight themes of environmentalism, as the ooze represents a destructive force aiming to revert the planet to a mammalian state, and evolution, emphasizing adaptation in a post-human world.[31]The story builds to a climax involving a confrontation with DJ Octavio, the recurring Octarian leader, whose scheme with the Fuzzy Ooze ties directly into the series' history of Inkling-Octarian rivalries, now complicated by increasing integration between the species.[34] A post-credits resolution addresses lingering threats and subtly connects to multiplayer elements, such as the cultural significance of Splatfests in Inkling society, reinforcing themes of rivalry evolving into coexistence.[35]
Development
Announcement and design
Splatoon 3 was first announced during a Nintendo Direct presentation on February 17, 2021, at the end of the 50-minute broadcast, marking the third entry in the series for the Nintendo Switch with a planned 2022 release.[36] The teaser trailer introduced the game's new setting in the sun-scorched Splatlands, highlighting the chaotic hub city of Splatsville as a fresh contrast to Inkopolis from prior titles, and showcased an evolved art style emphasizing rugged, post-apocalyptic urban decay with vibrant ink battles amid desert-like environments.[37] This reveal emphasized the game's core ink-shooting multiplayer action while teasing expansions on customization and world-building to build on Splatoon 2's foundation.[38]The design philosophy for Splatoon 3 focused on enhancing player expression through deeper customization options, such as the new Splashtag system allowing personalization of player banners, titles, and icons, while introducing Splatsville as a dynamic central hub to foster a sense of community and chaos.[39] Developers integrated mobile-app-like interfaces in the lobby for seamless access to features, including Grizzco for Salmon Run co-op missions and Ammo Knights for weapon purchases and testing, aiming to make daily interactions more intuitive and tied to street culture influences.[40] Co-directors Seita Inoue and Shintaro Sato, alongside producer Hisashi Nogami, led the creative vision, drawing from real-world fashion trends and diverse musical genres to shape elements like the idol group Deep Cut—comprising Shiver, Frye, and Big Man—whose designs and songs blend chaotic collaboration with cultural motifs for an edgier, trio-based dynamic compared to previous duos.[39][29]Key innovations included iterations on weapons, such as the introduction of new classes like Splatanas and Stringers for varied combat styles, and maps designed for verticality and urban sprawl, exemplified by Eeltail Alley with its crisscrossing bridges and alleyways beneath elevated structures to encourage tactical ink coverage.[39] Splatfest events were reimagined with themes that incorporate regional differences, allowing players to select in-game regions at setup for localized prompts and battles, such as varying food or cultural debates tailored to North America, Europe, or Japan.[41] The decision to relocate to Splatsville provided a fresh narrative start five years after Splatoon 2, preserving the series' DNA of turf wars and inkling society while exploring a battle-hardened, "City of Chaos" environment to evolve the world's lore without alienating core fans.[38][39]
Production process
Development of Splatoon 3 was handled by Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development (Nintendo EPD), with producer Hisashi Nogami overseeing the project and Shintaro Sato serving as director.[39] The team began work on the title after the final content updates for Splatoon 2 in late 2019, with the project ramping up ahead of its announcement in February 2021.[42] A core group of developers from previous Splatoon entries collaborated with new members to incorporate fresh elements, drawing on lessons from prior games to enhance overall polish.[43]Technical upgrades focused on bolstering the online infrastructure to support smoother gameplay experiences. Developers improved matchmaking algorithms to prioritize connection quality, reducing lag and disconnections in multiplayer sessions.[44] Anti-cheat systems were implemented to detect and penalize modified game data, particularly during high-stakes events like Splatfests, where Nintendo issued console bans to maintain fair play even before the full launch.[45] These enhancements enabled features such as Tricolor Splatfests, involving three teams in simultaneous battles, expanding on the series' competitive scale without compromising stability.[44]Key challenges included fine-tuning new mechanics like the Squid Roll, a dodge maneuver that lets players somersault while swimming to evade attacks, ensuring it integrated seamlessly with existing ink-based movement without unbalancing combat.[46] For the idol group Deep Cut, voice acting required localization across multiple languages to capture their chaotic, multilingual banter in the Anarchy Splatcast, with English dubs featuring distinct performers for Shiver, Frye, and Big Man to convey their unique personalities.[47]A public beta test occurred via the Splatfest World Premiere demo on August 27, 2022, allowing players to experience Turf War and Tricolor modes for 12 hours and providing Nintendo with direct feedback on server performance and mode accessibility.[48]Data mining efforts post-launch revealed cut content, including unused weapons with incomplete models and maps like Reef (from Splatoon 3), Kelp (from Splatoon 2), Mahi-Mahi Resort (from Splatoon 1), and Bluefin Depot, which were prototyped but not implemented in the final game.[49]Amiibo functionality was integrated to enhance player customization and social features, enabling scans to unlock exclusive gear sets and poses within the new photo mode, where users can capture screenshots of their Inklings in Splatsville or other locations using adjustable camera angles and effects.[50]
Release
Marketing campaigns
Nintendo's marketing for Splatoon 3 began with its reveal during the February 17, 2021, Nintendo Direct presentation, where the official reveal trailer introduced the game's desert setting in the Splatlands, new characters like Smallfry, and a 2022 release window for Nintendo Switch.[51] A subsequent trailer aired during the September 23, 2021, Nintendo Direct provided a deeper look at gameplay mechanics, including new abilities such as squid-roll dodges, wall-jumping, and the return of the Mammalian lore through the "Return of the Mammalians" theme, building anticipation for the single-player campaign.[52] The campaign culminated in the August 10, 2022, Splatoon 3 Direct, a 30-minute presentation that showcased additional battle stages, weapons, and multiplayer features, serving as the final major pre-launch reveal.[53]To extend the franchise's merchandise ecosystem, Nintendo released amiibo figures tied to Splatoon 3 characters, including Smallfry, the salmonid companion from the story mode, which unlocks in-game gear and photo studio options upon scanning.[54] The Deep Cut idol group—comprising Shiver, Frye, and Big Man—also received dedicated amiibo sets, allowing players to access exclusive outfits and catalog items that enhance customization in the game's hub areas.[55] Apparel tie-ins included official clothing lines such as limited-edition T-shirts featuring Squid Sisters motifs, available through the Nintendo store to promote the game's musical elements and encourage fan engagement.[56] Additionally, real-world concerts for the Squid Sisters, building on prior franchise events, were referenced in promotional materials to highlight the series' idol group heritage and drive community hype.[57]Pre-launch interactivity was amplified through the Splatoon 3: Splatfest World Premiere demo, a free online event held on August 27, 2022, requiring a Nintendo Switch Online membership and allowing players to test a three-team Splatfest format themed around "Past vs. Present vs. Future."[58] Downloadable from the eShop starting August 18, 2022, the demo ran from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. PT and served dual purposes of server stress-testing and promotional exposure, drawing global participation to showcase multiplayer dynamics.[59]Regional efforts tailored promotions to local audiences, with Japan receiving extensive TV commercials (CMs) featuring high-energy ads that highlighted ink battles and character animations, airing in the lead-up to launch.[60] These ads often incorporated the game's idol groups like Deep Cut for thematic tie-ins, aligning with Japan's strong affinity for the franchise's music and fashion elements. Globally, Nintendo ran social media challenges encouraging fans to share custom artwork, inked designs, and Splatfest predictions using hashtags like #Splatoon3, fostering organic buzz across platforms.[61]Post-launch marketing extended to the Expansion Pass, announced during the February 8, 2023, Nintendo Direct, which teased the return to Inkopolis from the original Splatoon and a new single-player story mode titled Side Order, available for purchase at $24.99 to deliver ongoing content waves.[62]
Launch details
Splatoon 3 was released on September 9, 2022, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch console. The game launched worldwide simultaneously, available both physically and digitally through the Nintendo eShop. Physical copies were distributed on standard Nintendo Switch game cartridges, which featured reversible cover art showcasing alternate artwork on the interior.[1][63]The standard edition retailed for $59.99 USD, while the optional Expansion Pass, providing access to additional downloadable content, was priced at $24.99 USD. No special launch bundles or limited editions were offered for the base game, though pre-order incentives varied by region and retailer; for example, select stores in North America provided stickers as bonuses for early purchasers.[1][64][65]The game supports backward compatibility with amiibo figures from Splatoon 2, allowing players to scan them for in-game rewards such as exclusive gear, but full save data transfer from the previous title is not supported—only specific bonuses like additional currency or items are carried over upon detection of prior save data. A day-one patch, version 1.1.0, was issued at launch to fix various bugs and enhance online multiplayer stability.[50][66][67]
Post-release content
Expansion Pass
The Splatoon 3 Expansion Pass is a paid downloadable content bundle priced at $24.99, offering additional multiplayer and single-player experiences beyond the base game. It comprises two waves of content, along with immediate battle-boosting bonuses such as 200 extra Battle King tickets and five Sardinium vouchers upon purchase. The pass emphasizes returning elements from prior entries while introducing fresh narrative and gameplay mechanics, enhancing replayability for dedicated players.[64]Wave 1, Inkopolis, released on February 28, 2023, integrates with the onset of Drizzle Season 2023 by enabling travel to the classic Inkopolis Plaza hub from Splatoon via a new train station in Splatsville. This update revives multiplayer access to legacy stages like Ancho-V Games and returning weapons from earlier games, fostering nostalgia-driven matches in Turf War, Splat Zones, and other modes. A dedicated Big Run event for Salmon Run Next Wave occurs exclusively in Inkopolis, featuring Grizzco operations amid the familiar urban setting, while a new shop unlocks vintage catalog items for customization.[68][5]Wave 2, Side Order, launched on February 22, 2024, during Fresh Season 2024, delivers a roguelite single-player campaign centered on Agent 8 ascending the Spire of Order in a monochromatic alternate reality called the Order Sector. Players customize loadouts via palette swaps—color-based ability sets replacing traditional weapons—that evolve across runs, including variants inspired by specials like Booyah Bomb for area control or ink storms for zoning. The mode pits Agent 8 against procedurally generated floors culminating in boss encounters, such as the Order of the Fireflies swarm or corrupted Splatfest announcers, emphasizing strategic adaptation and permadeath runs for high replayability. New weapons like the transforming Order Shot, which shifts between charger and splattershot forms, become available post-completion, alongside replica gear unlocked by collecting Mem Cakes that reference past characters.[6][69]The Expansion Pass expands the game's catalog with over 20 new apparel items and accessories themed around Inkopolis and Side Order, such as retro streetwear replicas and Agent 8-inspired tech outfits, purchasable in the updated shops. Its soundtrack, compiled in the Ordertune album, features 78 tracks blending electronic and orchestral styles, including expansions on the Return of the Mammalians theme with boss motifs like "Boss Floor Clear!" and ambient Spire explorations, available via in-game jukeboxes and Nintendo Switch Online music service.[5]Reception for the Expansion Pass has been mixed to positive, with Wave 1 criticized for its limited scope—primarily a hub swap and content recycle—lacking substantial innovation beyond nostalgia. In contrast, Side Order garnered praise for its roguelite depth, innovative palette system, and challenging bosses, though some players noted its steep difficulty curve and shorter initial run length reduced accessibility for newcomers. Critics highlighted its replayability as a highlight, scoring it around 8/10 on average, positioning it as essential for fans seeking narrative closure tied to Octoling lore.[69][70]
Software updates
Splatoon 3 has received ongoing free software updates since its launch, introducing new weapons, stages, balance adjustments, seasonal events, and compatibility enhancements to maintain player engagement and refine gameplay. These updates are released periodically by Nintendo, often aligning with seasonal content cycles like Fresh Season, Drizzle Season, and Splatfests, while addressing bugs and optimizing performance.[71]The initial post-launch update, version 1.2.0, released on October 25, 2022, added Big Run mode to Salmon Run Next Wave on Sockeye Station, alongside balance tweaks to specials and sub-weapons. Subsequent patches, including version 2.0.0 on November 30, 2022, focused on bug fixes and preparations for the first major season, enabling online multiplayer features and fixing issues in single-player Hero Mode. Version 5.0.0, released August 30, 2023, introduced new weapons such as the Douser Dualies Nouveau and extensive balance changes, including buffs to the Zipcaster special that increased its blast damage and radius for greater lethality.[72][71]In 2024, version 7.0.0 on February 22 supported the launch of the Side Order DLC by adding related features, new gear, and multiplayer tweaks for Fresh Season 2024, while version 8.0.0 on May 30 introduced Sizzle Season 2024 content with 11 new main weapons, including the Wellstring V, the Marlin Airport stage, and balance adjustments to mitigate one-way traffic in certain maps. Updates continued into 2025, with version 9.3.0 on March 12 bringing stage terrain changes for Tricolor Battles and weapon specifications to enhance individual traits.[72][73][74]Version 10.0.0, released June 11, 2025, added 30 new weapons from the Splatlands Collection (such as Barazushi and Emberz variants), the returning Urchin Underpass stage, and Nintendo Switch 2 enhancements including improved graphics resolution, faster load times, and higher frame rates for smoother performance. A follow-up, version 10.1.0 on September 3, 2025, implemented balance tweaks, such as increasing the N-ZAP '85's ink efficiency by approximately 10% and adjusting the Zipcaster's teleport cooldown to prevent overuse, alongside event modifications for Big Run rotations and Splatfest matchmaking. In June 2025, Nintendo announced the end of regular content updates for Splatoon 3, coinciding with the reveal of Splatoon Raiders, a spin-off project for Nintendo Switch 2, to expand the franchise's ongoing support.[75][76][77][78]Seasonal events have been bolstered through these updates, including recurring Big Run modes in Salmon Run with new weapon catalogs and king salmonids, as well as Splatfest World Premiere events like the October 2025 Splatoween theme pitting Zombie against Skeleton and Ghost for global competition.[71][79][80]
Reception
Critical reviews
Splatoon 3 received generally favorable reviews from critics, earning a Metacritic score of 83/100 based on 115 reviews.[81] Reviewers praised the game's multiplayer depth, which features refined turf war battles, new weapons, and modes like Tricolor Turf War, alongside creative elements in the single-player campaign such as the open-hub Alterna world and puzzle-platforming missions.[82] The vibrant art style, characterized by colorful ink-based environments and expressive character animations, was frequently highlighted as a standout feature, continuing the series' signature aesthetic appeal.[83] Additionally, the soundtrack, including tracks by the new idol group Deep Cut, was commended for its energetic and catchy compositions that enhance the lively atmosphere.[84]IGN awarded the multiplayer component a 9/10, lauding the fresh hub world in Splatsville, improved lobby systems, and addictive online play that encourages repeated sessions through customizable loadouts and diverse battle variants.[85] However, some critics noted drawbacks, including a repetitive single-player campaign that relies on familiar mechanics without significant innovation, and launch-day online connectivity issues that affected matchmaking stability.[86]GameSpot gave the game a 7/10, appreciating the robust multiplayer options and campaign surprises but critiquing the overall formula as too familiar compared to its predecessor.[86]The Expansion Pass content also garnered positive feedback, particularly the Side Order DLC, which introduces a roguelite mode with procedurally generated runs, new abilities, and challenging enemy encounters in a metallic alternate reality. IGN scored Side Order an 8/10, praising its replayability and how it leverages Splatoon 3's core combat for intense, varied gameplay loops that boost the single-player experience.[69] The DLC's Metacritic aggregate stands at 78/100 from 22 reviews, with outlets emphasizing its addictive structure and fresh twist on the series' mechanics.[87]In 2025, the Version 10.0.0 update, released on June 12, received positive reception for adding Nintendo Switch 2 support with enhanced visuals, smoother frame rates, new weapons, and returning stages like Urchin Underpass, effectively extending the game's longevity and cross-play compatibility.[88] Critics viewed these enhancements as a welcome evolution that revitalizes the title for new hardware without requiring a full sequel.[89]Overall, reviewers positioned Splatoon 3 as a solid evolution from Splatoon 2, refining multiplayer polish and content delivery through seasonal updates, though it was seen as less revolutionary in core design changes.[90]
Commercial success
Splatoon 3 achieved remarkable commercial success upon its launch, selling 3.45 million units in Japan within the first three days, marking the largest opening for any Nintendo Switch title in the region.[7] By the end of December 2022, global sales reached 10.13 million units, driven by strong initial demand and positive critical reception that highlighted its refined multiplayer gameplay. This rapid uptake positioned it as one of the fastest-selling entries in the Splatoon series, surpassing the launch performance of its predecessor.As of March 31, 2024, lifetime worldwide sales stood at 11.96 million units, according to Nintendo's financial reports, with no updated figures reported as of November 2025; this reflects steady accumulation through ongoing content updates that sustained player interest. The game's performance has been particularly dominant in Japan, where it remains among the top-selling Switch titles, bolstered by cultural affinity for the franchise's ink-based battles and seasonal events. In Western markets, sales grew more gradually post-launch, supported by free software updates introducing new weapons, stages, and modes, though at a slower pace compared to the explosive debut.The release of the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025 further enhanced its market performance through backward compatibility and dedicated enhancements, including optimized visuals and performance improvements via version 10.0.0 update, which encouraged adoption among new hardware owners. Compared to Splatoon 2, which reached 13.60 million units by December 2022, Splatoon 3 has not yet matched its predecessor's lifetime total but demonstrated stronger initial momentum before a more measured long-term growth trajectory. The Expansion Pass, featuring additional single-player content like the Side Order DLC, contributed to base game longevity by extending engagement without requiring full numerical sales disclosures from Nintendo.
Awards and legacy
Splatoon 3 received several notable awards following its release, highlighting its innovation in multiplayer design and artistic presentation. At The Game Awards 2022, the game won Best Multiplayer Game, beating competitors such as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II and Overwatch 2, while also earning a nomination for Best Family Game.[91] In Japan, it secured the Award for Excellence at the Japan Game Awards 2023, recognizing its broad appeal and enhancements to the series' core turf-war mechanics.[92] Additionally, Famitsu's Dengeki Game Awards 2022 named it Best Action Game, praising its dynamic combat and seasonal content updates.[93]The game's legacy has solidified the Splatoon series as Nintendo's premier online multiplayer franchise, emphasizing sustained player engagement through regular updates and events that extend its lifespan beyond initial launch.[94] This approach has influenced Nintendo's broader adoption of live-service elements in titles like Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros., demonstrating how ongoing content can maintain community interest without aggressive monetization. Its cultural impact extends to real-world trends, with the Inklings' and Octolings' vibrant outfits drawing from skateboarding, hip-hop, and street fashion, inspiring fan merchandise and apparel lines that blend gaming aesthetics with urban style.[95] The music, particularly from the band Deep Cut, incorporates diverse global influences like J-pop, samba, and Indian elements, fostering trends in playlists and virtual concerts that resonate beyond the game.[96]Anarchy Battles have contributed to the growth of esports within the Splatoon community, with official high school leagues such as the CHSAA sanctioning the mode for competitive play starting in 2024, reaching thousands of students and awarding scholarships.[97] Nintendo's sponsorship of events like the PlayVS Cup in 2025 further amplified this, distributing over $8,000 in prizes to promote organized tournaments.[98] The dedicated fan community has thrived through modding efforts on platforms like GameBanana, enabling custom weapons and cosmetics, alongside a prolific fan art scene that reimagines characters in ink-themed media.[99]Looking ahead, Splatoon 3's enduring support, including 2025 updates adding third kits and new stages, underscores its role in paving the way for series expansions. The announcement of Splatoon Raiders in June 2025, the first official spin-off exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2 featuring Deep Cut, highlights the franchise's expanding influence and hints at potential for a full sequel like Splatoon 4 in the near future.[100]