Splatoon Raiders Announced for Nintendo Switch 2: Everything You Need to Know

Nintendo has taken a bold step forward in the evolution of its colorful, chaotic Splatoon franchise. With the announcement of *Splatoon Raiders*, a brand-new single-player spin-off, and a massive update to *Splatoon 3*, the world of ink warfare is expanding in exciting directions. Both announcements are poised to energize longtime fans and draw in new players, especially as the franchise makes a leap onto the next-generation Nintendo Switch 2.

Introducing Splatoon Raiders: A Fresh Adventure

Splatoon Raiders is unlike anything we’ve seen in the Splatoon universe before. Departing from its well-known multiplayer focus, this spin-off offers a single-player survival adventure set across the mysterious and treacherous Spirhalite Islands. Players take on the role of a young mechanic, whose peaceful journey takes a turn when their ship crash-lands, stranding them on an unknown archipelago.

- Joining the player on this journey are fan-favorite characters Frye, Shiver, and Big Man from the Deep Cut trio. Together, they must explore ancient ruins, collect scarce resources, and rebuild their camp—all while uncovering the mysteries hidden deep within the islands. The gameplay promises to blend Splatoon’s signature style and flair with elements of survival and base-building, creating a fresh, genre-bending experience for the franchise.

- The visual direction retains the iconic vibrant color palette and streetwear-inspired aesthetic, but adds a more grounded, organic tone to match the deserted island environment. From managing your tools to scavenging for ink and supplies, players will face challenges that test both their strategy and resilience.

- As the first full-fledged spin-off in Splatoon’s history, Splatoon Raiders signals a daring step into narrative-driven storytelling and gameplay innovation. It’s expected to offer a rich lore experience that expands the universe far beyond Turf War and Salmon Run.

Splatoon 3 Update: Version 10.0

In addition to launching a new title, Nintendo is breathing new life into *Splatoon 3* with its Version 10.0 update. This isn’t just a minor patch—it’s a transformative upgrade that redefines the game on the Nintendo Switch 2 while maintaining backward compatibility with the original Switch.First, the arsenal is growing with 30 brand-new weapons. These additions include weapons from emerging in-game brands like Barazushi and Emberz, and offer fresh tactical options for both casual and competitive players. Each weapon is carefully balanced and tailored to encourage diverse playstyles, from aggressive front-liners to stealthy flanking specialists.

- A major highlight of the update is the return of Urchin Underpass, a classic battleground from the original Splatoon. With updated visuals and reworked pathways, it seamlessly blends nostalgia with modern design, giving veterans and newcomers alike a new map to master.

- The technical improvements are equally noteworthy. The Switch 2 hardware allows for higher frame rates, improved loading times, and more detailed environmental effects. Whether it’s shimmering ink particles or smoother transitions between stages, the visual fidelity is significantly enhanced.

- Perhaps most importantly, Version 10.0 introduces full cross-play between the original Switch and the Switch 2. This ensures the player community remains united, regardless of their hardware. It’s a smart move that preserves the competitive integrity of the game while allowing Switch 2 players to enjoy upgraded visuals and performance. Overall, the update is more than just a content drop—it’s a commitment to keeping *Splatoon 3* fresh and future-proofed.

Conclusion: A New Chapter in the Inkverse

With *Splatoon Raiders* venturing into uncharted territory and *Splatoon 3* receiving a significant update, Nintendo is proving that the Splatoon universe still has endless ink to spill. Raiders offers a whole new way to experience the world through story-driven, single-player exploration, while Splatoon 3 continues to grow and evolve with new weapons, maps, and technological advancements. This dual-pronged approach—innovating through both expansion and iteration—shows that Nintendo isn't just resting on the franchise’s popularity. Instead, it's paving the way for a bold and vibrant future, one that blends action, creativity, and community in equal measure. The Inkverse is entering a new era. Whether you're a longtime Splatfan or a curious newcomer, there's never been a better time to dive in and get messy.