Nintendo Expands the Splatoon Universe With a New Spinoff
Nintendo has officially announced Splatoon Raiders, the first-ever spinoff title from its massively popular Splatoon franchise. This all-new action-adventure game will launch exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 and takes players on a colorful journey through the newly revealed Spirhalite Islands.
Unveiled via a trailer on the Nintendo Today! app on June 11, 2025, Splatoon Raiders will introduce a fresh gameplay style where players assume the role of a mechanic exploring mysterious islands alongside the beloved Deep Cut trio. With a bold narrative approach, vibrant landscapes, and Switch 2-exclusive enhancements, Raiders promises to expand the Inkling world like never before.
Splatoon Raiders: First Look and Setting
Though a full gameplay reveal is still under wraps, the trailer hints at a semi-open world setup, puzzle-solving elements, and high-paced combat sequences—featuring new weapons and tools. According to Nintendo’s blog, “Players will take on the role of a mechanic, journeying through the Spirhalite Islands with support from Shiver, Frye, and Big Man.”
The Spirhalite Islands introduce a mysterious biome, layered with ancient tech and hidden threats. This setting stands apart from the usual cityscapes and turf arenas, focusing more on exploration and teamwork. The game also appears to incorporate elements of role-playing and co-op, marking a new genre pivot for the Splatoon brand.
Switch 2 Exclusive and No Release Date Yet
Splatoon Raiders is confirmed to be a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, joining Mario Kart World and the upcoming Donkey Kong Bananza as early flagship titles for Nintendo’s new-gen console.
While no official release date has been confirmed, fans can expect more updates later this year. Judging by Nintendo’s reveal patterns, Splatoon Raiders may likely hit shelves by mid or late 2026.
Splatoon 3 Version 10.0.0 Update Arrives June 12
Alongside the big spinoff reveal, Nintendo is also rolling out a substantial free update to Splatoon 3 on June 12. The Version 10.0.0 update will be available across both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 consoles.
What’s New in Splatoon 3 Update:
- Enhanced visuals and smoother performance on Nintendo Switch 2 in areas like Splatsville and Grand Festival Grounds
- Support for crossplay between Switch and Switch 2 players
- Introduction of the Splatlands Collection featuring 30 new weapon kits from Barazushi and Emberz brands
- Urchin Underpass stage makes a return from the original Wii U Splatoon
- Increased weapon freshness caps and new player badges
- A new weapon stat for smarter matchmaking
Splatoon 3 is staying fresh with consistent updates and content drops, keeping its community engaged and competitive.
Why Splatoon Raiders Matters
With the massive success of the mainline Splatoon games, Splatoon Raiders could signal Nintendo’s broader ambition to turn Splatoon into a multimedia franchise. Adding narrative depth, new characters, and potentially new multiplayer formats could grow the fan base beyond core competitive players.
As the Switch 2 becomes Nintendo’s fastest-selling console ever, launching a story-driven ARPG-style Splatoon game is both a bold and calculated move. Raiders offers Nintendo a chance to explore gameplay mechanics not confined to paint-based battles while preserving the franchise’s colorful chaos and iconic style.
Final Thoughts
Splatoon Raiders is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated titles in the Nintendo Switch 2 library. With a unique setting, mechanic-led gameplay, and support from fan-favorite characters, this spinoff could redefine what Splatoon games can be. Combined with the Splatoon 3 update arriving this week, it’s a great time to be a fan of the squid-kid universe.
Stay tuned for more updates from Nintendo as it prepares for what could be its most content-packed Switch generation yet.
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